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Tax Tips Small Business

Electing to Expense the Cost of Your Business Assets

Section 179 deduction limits increase

The IRS allows taxpayers the option of either depreciating some assets over a specified number of years or deducting all or a portion of the cost in one year. The expense election, commonly referred to as the Section 179 deduction, is made in the year the asset is placed in service. The benefit is a large deduction in the current year that is not reduced even if the asset is placed in service late in the tax year.

Small Business Quick Tip

Instead of deducting the actual expenses for the business use of your vehicle, opt for the standard mileage rate. In 2008, you can deduct 50.5 cents for each business mile you drive (58.5 cents for each business mile you drive after July 1st).

Saving for Your Retirement

Certain taxpayers are eligible for a tax credit

If your adjusted gross income is less than $50,000, you may be eligible for a nonrefundable credit against your income tax for elective contributions you make to §401 (k) plans, §403(b) annuities, §457 plans, SIMPLE or simplified employee pension (SEP) plans, traditional or Roth IRAs, and voluntary after-tax employee contributions to a qualified retirement plan or a 403(b) annuity.

The amount of your credit can be as much as 50%, 20%, or 10% of your contribution depending upon your filing status and modified adjusted gross income, giving you a maximum annual credit of $1,000 ($2,000 if married filing jointly).

This credit was due to expire at the end of 2006; however, recently enacted legislation made this credit permanent. After 2006, the adjusted gross income limits will be indexed for inflation, making more taxpayers eligible for the credit.

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Tax Tips Personal

Public Safety Officers Get a Tax Break

Tax savings for health care costs Beginning in 2007, retired public safety officers, or those who have separated from service due to disability, get a tax break for health care costs. If you are a retired public safety officer,
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Personal Quick Tip

It doesn't appear that a college education will get cheaper any time soon. Look into establishing a qualified tuition plan for your children. The earnings in the account grow tax-free. As long as the funds are spent on qualified education expenses, there are no tax consequences. Plus, there may be an added tax benefit at your state level.