Are you paying too much in income taxes? Are you getting all the credits and deductions you are entitled to? Here are 7 tips to help you minimize taxes and keep more in your pocket:
1. Participate in company retirement plans. Every dollar you contribute will reduce your taxable income and thus your income taxes. Similarly, enroll in your companys flexible spending account. You can set aside money for medical expenses and day care expenses. This money is use it or lose it so make sure you estimate well!
2. Make sure you pay in enough taxes to avoid penalties. Uncle Sam charges interest and penalties if you dont pay in at least 90% of your current year taxes or 100% of last years tax liability.
3. Buy a house. The mortgage interest and real estate taxes are deductible, and may allow you to itemize other deductions such as property taxes and charitable donations.
4. Keep your house for at least two years. One of the best tax breaks available today is the home sale exclusion, which allows you to exclude up to $250,000 ($500,000 for joint filers) of profit on the sale of your home from your income. However, you must have owned and lived...