Unexpected Tax Increases

July 20, 2023

Factors to Consider for Year-Round Tax Planning

Proper tax planning is a crucial aspect of financial management that should be addressed throughout the year. Waiting until April to assess your tax liability is a risky move. To ensure you keep more money in your pocket, it's essential to be aware of factors that can unexpectedly raise your taxes. Today we will explore five key factors that could potentially increase your tax owed at the end of the year. By being proactive and considering these factors, you can better plan your finances and mitigate tax surprises.

Factor #1 - Cashing in Your Retirement Plan:
Early withdrawal from your retirement plan, such as a 401(k), can lead to significant tax penalties. If you opt to receive the proceeds in cash instead of rolling them over into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), you will be required to pay taxes on the withdrawn amount. Additionally, a 10 percent penalty may apply. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can safeguard a substantial portion of your hard-earned retirement savings.

Factor #2 - Working as a Freelancer:
While freelancing offers independence and flexibility, it can also introduce complex tax implications. Freelancers and self-employed individuals are subject to the self-employment tax, which includes both the employer and employee shares of Medicare and Social Security taxes. Failing to account for this tax burden and set aside funds accordingly can lead to unpleasant surprises come tax season.
 
Factor #3 - Failing to Take Your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD):
Retirement accounts, such as IRAs and workplace plans, require individuals to begin withdrawing minimum distributions once they turn 70. Failing to meet this requirement can result in substantial tax penalties. It is crucial to stay informed about RMD rules and ensure compliance to avoid unnecessary financial setbacks.

Factor #4 - Skipping Your IRA Contribution:
Opting to skip your annual IRA contribution can have unforeseen consequences for your tax bill. Before deciding to forgo contributing to your IRA, it is prudent to evaluate the potential impact on your overall tax liability. Running the numbers and seeking professional advice can help you make an informed decision.

Factor #5 - Paying Off Your Mortgage:
While paying off your mortgage may provide a sense of financial freedom, it can affect your tax situation. Mortgage interest is typically tax-deductible if you itemize your deductions. Losing this deduction could potentially increase your tax liability. While this shouldn't be the sole reason to keep a mortgage, it's an important consideration to keep in mind.

Seek Professional Assistance for Tax Debt Cases:
If you find yourself owing back taxes, it is crucial to seek professional assistance to navigate the complexities of tax debt resolution. Our firm specializes in helping individuals negotiate with the IRS and we can potentially settle tax debts for a fraction of the amount owed. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let our experienced tax resolution specialists guide you through the IRS maze, providing you with peace of mind.

Year-round tax planning is essential to minimize surprises and optimize your financial well-being. By being aware of factors that can unexpectedly raise your taxes, such as early retirement plan withdrawals, self-employment tax obligations, missed required minimum distributions, skipped IRA contributions, and the impact of mortgage payoff, you can take proactive steps to manage your tax liability effectively.

Remember, hiring a tax resolution specialist for IRS problems is crucial for protecting your hard-earned income and assets. Let us help you take back control of your financial life by reaching out to our firm today.
By 7066766659 September 10, 2025
Under the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OB3), qualified tips are any cash tip received by an individual with a valid Social Security number and in an occupation that 'customarily and regularly' received tips on or before Dec. 31, 2024. They include tips that are paid in cash or charged. The Treasury Department has not yet released the “official” list of occupations that qualify for the No Tax on Tips Regulations. It is expected, though, that the job titles will include but not be limited to those listed below: 1) Food & Beverage : Bartenders, Wait Staff, Servers, Chefs, and Cooks 2) Entertainment: Gambling Dealers, Change Persons, Booth Cashiers, Dancers, Musicians, Singers, Entertainers, and Other Performers 3) Personal Services: Personal Care Workers, Private Event Planners, Photographers, Videographers, Event Officiants, Pet Caretakers, Tutors, Nannies, and Babysitters. 4) Personal Appearance & Wellness: Skincare Specialists, Massage T herapists, Barbers, Hairdressers, Cosmetologists, Manicurists, Exercise Trainers, and Group Fitness Instructors. 5) Recreation : Golf Caddies, and Tour & Travel Guides. 6) Transportation : Ride Share, Taxi, and Food Delivery, Drivers, Porters, and Sky Caps. The final list is expected to be issued in October, 2025. Some implications of the No Tax on Tips Regulations. First , the deduction is for qualified tips of up to $25,000 per year regardless of how many employers you have during the year. The tax savings will be in the form of a tax deduction when you file your Federal tax return the following year. Second , qualified tips must be reported to the individual on one of three forms to be eligible for the deduction; a) Form W-2; b) Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation; or c) Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third-Party Network Transactions. Third , it only applies to Federal income taxes. It does not include State, Local, Social Security or Medicare taxes. Finally, the maximum annual deduction of $25,000 for single filers and $25,000 each for joint or married filing separately filers phases out by $100 for each $1,000 for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $150,000 (or $300,000 for joint filers). How Advantage Tax Relief Can Assist You At Advantage Tax Relief, based in Itasca, IL, we have over a decade of experience helping individuals and businesses resolve tax issues. Our team specializes in offering personalized tax relief and tax resolution solutions tailored to your unique needs. We will work with you to assess your situation and explore your options, whether it’s an Offer in Compromise, installment agreements, or other strategies. Our experience allows us to identify the best path forward to ease your tax burden and guide you toward financial freedom. If you're facing tax debt, don't wait. Advantage Tax Relief is here to assist you with effective, professional help. Call Advantage Tax Relief today at 630-773-3200 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your tax issues.
By 7066766659 August 29, 2025
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By 7066766659 July 8, 2025
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