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Personal Finance

Taxes

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Recently Updated

  • Marginal tax rates: How federal income tax brackets workCutting through the tax rate jargon.
  • How to use your tax refund wiselyWith refunds running higher this year, there are several ways to use yours effectively.
  • One big beautiful tax refund?Why the math may have changed in your favor.

See All

1031 exchange rules: How to avoid capital gains tax when selling property
It’s a “like-kind” kind of thing.
2026 federal income tax brackets: Rates, standard deduction, and key limits
Same rules, new numbers.
Alternative minimum tax: Is it only for the wealthy?
A high income may require alternative tax calculations.
Capital gains and losses: How gains, losses, and tax rates work
What happens when you sell an asset?
Cash vs. accrual accounting: How are you recording revenue and expenses?
Be mindful of GAAP.
Claiming dependents on your tax return: Who qualifies and why it matters
IRS rules that can lower your tax bill.
Donating to a 501(c)(3): Research, verify, donate, itemize, and deduct
Remember to keep your receipts.
Donor-advised funds: A way to give to charity and get a tax break
Set up your own charitable “foundation.”
Don’t fear the gift tax: Understanding gift tax exclusions and rules
Most people can give without being taxed.
Don’t get spooked by your tax bill
Why planning this fall could make next April less frightening.
Filing a tax return: When it’s required and when it’s worth it
Know if you owe—or if you’re off the hook.
Filing your taxes: Answers to 6 frequently asked questions
DIY or get help?
Form 1099: What it’s for and how it affects your taxes
Are you withholding or estimating enough tax?
Give till it hurts: A list of the taxes we pay
A little here, a little there, and it really adds up.
Got an IRS notice or letter? Here are the steps you need to follow
An IRS audit is not as scary as it sounds.
How much did I earn? Total income, AGI, taxable income, and MAGI
One tax return, several income numbers.
How to amend a tax return after you’ve filed
Mistakes happen. Here’s how to fix them.
How to choose the right tax filing status
Five options. One correct answer.
How to use the student loan interest deduction and claim education tax credits
A tax break for college costs.
How to use your tax refund wisely
With refunds running higher this year, there are several ways to use yours effectively.
How your divorce settlement affects your taxes
Your new marital status changes the tax equation.
Marginal tax rates: How federal income tax brackets work
Cutting through the tax rate jargon.
One big beautiful tax refund?
Why the math may have changed in your favor.
Pass-through income: From your business to your tax return
When business profits become personal taxes.
Paying and filing taxes
A Britannica Money Learning Journey
Save, spend, or invest: How to handle tax refunds and other financial windfalls
To splurge, or not to splurge: That is the question.
Self-employed tax deductions: What you can claim on Schedule C
Turn business costs into legitimate savings.
Self-employment tax: Filing, paying, and staying current
Mind your business—and your taxes.
Should you itemize tax deductions or take the standard deduction?
The math changed in 2018 and was made permanent in 2025.
Snowbird? Empty nester? Tax tips to consider if you spend time in two states
Do you know your residency rules?
State and local taxes you paid: Are they tax deductible?
Itemize and you can deduct up to $40,000 in 2025.
Tax deductions, tax credits, and tax refunds—what’s the difference?
Top line, bottom line, leveling line.
Tax schedules and forms related to Form 1040, U.S. Individual Tax Income Tax Return
So many forms, so little time.
The kiddie tax: How the IRS taxes your child’s investment income
Even a child can trigger a higher tax bracket.
The price of procrastinating on your tax filing
The penalties, the extension trap, and what to do before April 15.
What are tax credits and how do they work?
A dollar-for-dollar break on your tax bill.
What is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and how do I start one?
A tax exemption with approval, compliance, and management complexities.
What the earned income tax credit means for working families
A tax break that helps ease a strained budget.
You can file a tax extension, but should you?
It’s not just free time.
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