Spring is here, and with it comes spring cleaning. Every year, I'm determined to get my house in order. Every year, I fail, mostly because I'm tackling much too large of a task. But I can break the task down into smaller projects. This year, one of those projects is to spring clean my finances. Play along with me and spring clean your finances as well! Task One - Shred Those Old Documents! Every so often, various financial paperwork … [Read more...]
How Do Income Taxes Work?
Happy Tax Day! Because April 15 fell on a Saturday this year, US tax returns weren't due until April 17th. But why do we pay our taxes on April 15? And while we're talking about it, how do income taxes work anyway?Federal income taxes were created by the 16th Amendment to the Constitution, which says "The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several … [Read more...]
What to do with a large tax refund
Your 2016 tax return is due April 18, and by now, many of you have already finished filing your returns. Why wait til the last minute, especially if you're expecting a refund? Let's say you're getting a decent amount of money back (more than enough to buy you a meal at a casual restaurant). What are you going to do with your large tax refund?First and foremost, pay down those high interest debts, especially consumer debts like credit card … [Read more...]
The 3 Biggest Tax Mistakes Revealed
Two things are certain in life; death and taxes. For some, filing a tax return can feel like dying a slow and painful death. Unless you’re an accountant, tax returns are never fun and rarely straightforward. They can be incredibly complex to fill out, particularly if you’re completing one on your own. As a result, people make so many silly tax errors that end up costing them.Today, we look at the biggest tax mistakes to help you be more … [Read more...]
What is an SS-5 Form?
An SS-5 Form is an application for a Social Security card. Typically, you would use this form to apply for Social Security card when your children are born. Additionally, you would also use the SS-5 form if you need a replacement Social Security card or to change incorrect information on your current Social Security card.Requirements for an SS-5If you are applying for a first time Social Security card, you must be physically present with … [Read more...]