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Billions Spent on Tax Returns That Could Be Filed for Free

About 101 million eligible filers missed out on using the Free File program, a NerdWallet data analysis shows.

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Elizabeth Renter

What Is a W-9? Definition and Who Fills It Out

A W-9 is an IRS form that independent contractors fill out to give businesses their tax ID number and personal information.

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Andy Rosen, Bella Avila

Big Life Changes Could Spell Big Shifts in 2022 Tax Outcomes

NERDWALLET 2022 TAX REPORT

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Elizabeth Renter

Most Tax Filers Work to Slash Their Bill, Embrace Green Credits

NERDWALLET 2023 TAX REPORT

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Andrew Marder

Where’s My Amended Return? How to Track the Status

You can use the IRS' "Where's My Amended Return?" online tool or call the IRS to track the status.

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Andy Rosen

Crypto Tax Guide: 2026 Rates and Rules

Yes, you likely have to pay crypto taxes. Profits from crypto are subject to capital gains taxes, just like stocks.

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Kurt Woock

Analysis: Taxpayers Waste Billions on Filing Federal Returns

Each year, 70% of taxpayers qualify to file federal returns for free, but few do. The unnecessary spending could top $13 billion.

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Elizabeth Renter

What to Consider Before Moving to a State With No Income Tax

Living in a state without income tax might allow you to hold on to more of your hard-earned money. However, it won’t necessarily shield you from other taxes or a higher cost of living.

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Sabrina Parys, Bella Avila

Arizona State Income Tax Income Rate for 2025-2026

You don’t necessarily have to live in Arizona to pay Arizona state income tax.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

Virginia State Income Tax: Rates and Brackets for 2025-2026

Virginia has a progressive tax structure, with four rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. Learn about who pays Virginia state tax and when.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

Charitable Giving Tax Strategies to Consider in 2025-2026

Giving to charity not only makes a positive philanthropic impact, but also can reduce your tax burden.

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Tiffany Lam-Balfour

Tax Withholding: What It Is and How It Works

Pay attention to withholding tax because if too little is withheld, you may owe the IRS come tax time.

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Alana Benson

New York State Income Tax Rates and Brackets for 2025-2026

New York state has nine income tax rates, ranging from 4% to 10.9%. Tax credits and deductions, filing status and residency status can influence what you pay.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

How to Get an Identity Protection PIN from the IRS

An Identity Protection PIN from the IRS can help protect your tax return from potential fraud.

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Alana Benson

IRS Offer in Compromise: Basics and Who Qualifies

Here’s how an IRS offer in compromise works, what it takes to qualify and what to know about the program.

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Tina Orem, Sabrina Parys

Value-Added Tax (VAT): What It Is, How Refunds Work

Here's how value-added tax works, what it is and how you can get a VAT refund if you shop while traveling.

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Tina Orem

California State Income Tax Guide for 2026

California has nine income tax rates, ranging from 1% to 12.3%. Learn more about how to calculate your bill, plus important deadlines.

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Sabrina Parys, Bella Avila

Is Unemployment Taxed? How It Works

Unemployment benefits are considered taxable income. Withholding taxes on your payments can help you avoid a surprise at tax time.

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Tina Orem

IRS Data: Refunds Lag as Agency, Tax Filers Slow Down

Prepare your taxes now. If you owe, you can put off filing, but if you have a refund, it's wise to get in line now.

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Elizabeth Renter

Taxes on Mutual Funds: How to Calculate, Strategies to Save

You may owe tax on mutual funds, even if you haven’t sold your shares. Here's an overview of how taxes on mutual funds work, plus strategies to minimize what you owe.

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Tina Orem, Bella Avila