Before Doing Your Taxes, Gather These Documents
Whether you hire a professional or do it yourself, you need certain information and documentation to file your tax return. Here’s a list of items taxpayers commonly need to complete the…
Kay Bell
Posts by Kay Bell:
Estate Tax: How It Works and Which States Have One
The federal estate tax generally applies when a person’s assets exceed a certain amount — $11.2 million in 2018 — at the time of death. When Uncle Sam collects the…
Making a Will Online: 3 DIY Options
A will ensures your possessions go to the right people after your death. You must compose yours carefully, but if your personal situation and estate aren’t complicated, you might be…
What Is a Living Trust and Do I Need One?
A living trust is an estate planning tool that serves a variety of purposes. It can help you and your family prepare for an uncertain future. It can help your…
What Is a Living Will?
A living will sounds very similar to a last will and testament, but it serves a different purpose. Your living will puts into writing what steps you want your doctors to…
What Is a Power of Attorney?
A power of attorney is a legal document that gives a person the authority to act on another’s behalf. Because life events can spur the need for a power of attorney for…
How Long Should You Keep Your Tax Records?
If you think your tax work is done once you file your return, think again. Now you need to file your tax records. Keeping your tax returns and the documents…
What Is Probate and How Can You Avoid It?
In simple terms, probate is the legal process for distributing your property after you die. However, “simple” may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think…
The 2019 Tax Deadline Is April 15 (for Most) — But There’s More to Do, Too
The 2019 tax deadline is April 15 (unless you live in Maine or Massachusetts, where it’s April 17). Filing after the deadline can cost you. The IRS can assess…
Beware the Perils of Tax Procrastination
Psychologists say we tend to procrastinate when we fear or dread doing some task. Perhaps that explains why that as April began, the Internal Revenue Service was still waiting for…
