Income Tax Preparation, Accounting and Payroll service by Don Brooks & Associates - Don Brooks Associates, Inc.

Giving to Charity

New rules require diligent recordkeeping

Keeping the receipts from your charitable contributions just became more of a priority. Starting January 2007, you will not be allowed to deduct charitable contributions of any amount unless you have the proof.

Keeping the receipts from your charitable contributions just became more of a priority. Starting January 2007, you will not be allowed to deduct charitable contributions of any amount unless you have the proof. What does this mean for you? Starting in 2007, each cash contribution you make must be substantiated with a bank record, receipt, letter, or other written communication from the donee organization that states the name of the donee, the date-the contribution was made, and the amount of the contribution.

Without this substantiation, you will not be allowed to deduct the contribution on your tax return.

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Tax Tips Small Business

Starting Your Own Business?

Here are a few quick tips to help you reduce taxes

Open a separate business checking account. Many small business owners don't realize the complications that can arise from using their personal checking account to pay for business expenses. If business expenses are mixed in with personal expenses, the IRS may disallow them.

Small Business Quick Tip

The Social Security wage base increases to $106,800 in 2009 and 2010. This means that you are no longer required to withhold social security tax for employees after meeting this threshold. However, you are required to withhold Medicare taxes regardless of the amount of wages paid.

Saturday, 19th May 2012

What is an Enrolled Agent and why should I care?

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Tax Tips Personal

HSA Funding Options

For a limited time only, there are more options

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are a great tax vehicle for making the most of your medical expenses. However, it's not always easy to come up with the money to fund an HSA. Well, now there are more options available to HSA owners. At any time before 2012, you can make a one-time only tax-free rollover from an IRA to an HSA. This rollover amount may not be more than your HSA maximum contribution for your type of coverage, whether individual or family.

Personal Quick Tip

Contributions to your IRA must be made by the due date of your tax return. Generally this is April 15. Extending the due date of your tax return does not extend the due date of your IRA contribution.