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# Taxlane, LLC: This is your exit.  Let us take the wheel.

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://taxlane.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Top 10 Tax Breaks for Middle-Class Families in 2025](https://taxlane.com/top-10-tax-breaks-for-middle-class-families-in-2025/): Tax Breaks for Middle-Class Families in 2025. Discover the most impactful tax deductions and credits available to middle-class families in 2025 under the new federal tax law changes.
- [Estimated Tax Errors: Common Mistakes in Calculating Estimated Taxes (2025)](https://taxlane.com/estimated-tax-errors-common-mistakes-in-calculating-estimated-taxes-2025/): Discover how to avoid costly estimated tax errors in 2025. Learn about underpayment penalty risks and tips to stay compliant with TaxLane’s expert guidance.
- [IRS Online Payment Options: The Fastest Way to Pay Taxes in 2025](https://taxlane.com/irs-online-payment-options-the-fastest-way-to-pay-taxes-in-2025/): IRS Online Payment Options: Explore the fastest, safest ways to pay your taxes online in 2025. Learn how to use IRS Direct Pay, EFTPS, and more to avoid delays and penalties.
- [Q3 Estimated Taxes Due in 2025 – How to Calculate & Pay](https://taxlane.com/q3-estimated-taxes-due-in-2025-how-to-calculate-pay/): Q3 Estimated Taxes: Learn how to calculate and pay your third quarter estimated taxes due in September 2025.
- [5 Shocking Facts About IRS Passport Revocation for Tax Debt](https://taxlane.com/5-shocking-facts-about-irs-passport-revocation-for-tax-debt/): Passport Revocation for Tax Debt: Learn how IRS passport revocation works for seriously delinquent tax debt. Discover the risks, thresholds, and steps to protect your travel rights.
- [Offer in Compromise vs. Installment Agreement: 5 Key Differences in IRS Payment Plans](https://taxlane.com/offer-in-compromise-vs-installment-agreement-5-key-differences-in-irs-payment-plans/): Offer in Compromise vs. Installment Agreement: Struggling with IRS debt? Learn the 5 key differences between an Offer in Compromise and an Installment Agreement to choose the best IRS payment plan.
- [3 Simple Ways to Track Side Hustle Income Without Stress](https://taxlane.com/3-simple-ways-to-track-side-hustle-income-without-stress/): Learn three easy, IRS-compliant methods to track side hustle income, avoid mistakes, and stay tax-ready in 2025.
- [Lien vs Levy: 7 Key Differences Every Taxpayer Must Know](https://taxlane.com/lien-vs-levy-7-key-differences-every-taxpayer-must-know/): Lien vs Levy - Learn the difference between a lien versus a levy, how each affects you, and what steps to take if the IRS uses them.
- [7 Essentials: Child and Dependent Care Credit 2025](https://taxlane.com/7-essentials-child-and-dependent-care-credit-2025/): Learn 7 essentials about the Child and Dependent Care Credit 2025—eligibility, expenses, AGI limits, Form 2441, and strategies for working parents.
- [Form 1099-K vs. 1099-NEC: What Side Hustlers Need to File in 2025](https://taxlane.com/form-1099-k-vs-1099-nec-what-side-hustlers-need-to-file-in-2025/): Form 1099-K vs. 1099-NEC: Confused about Form 1099-K and Form 1099-NEC? Learn which applies to your side hustle in 2025, the IRS thresholds, and how to report income from PayPal, Etsy, and freelance work.
- [How to Report Side Hustle Income (Even If You Didn’t Get a1099)](https://taxlane.com/how-to-report-side-hustle-income-even-if-you-didnt-get-a-1099/): Report Side Hustle Income: Think your side hustle income isn’t taxable because you didn’t get a 1099? Think again. Learn how to track and report all freelance and gig earnings properly.
- [“No Tax on Tips” – Who Actually Benefits From This Provision?](https://taxlane.com/no-tax-on-tips-who-actually-benefits-from-this-provision/): "No Tax on Tips" - Who Actually Benefits From This Provision?
- [AMT 2025 Exemption Changes: Who’s Affected as Exemptions Shift](https://taxlane.com/amt-2025-exemption-changes-whos-affected-as-exemptions-shift/): AMT 2025 Exemption Changes: Understand the 2025 Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) exemption changes, who is impacted, and strategies to manage liability under the updated IRS thresholds.
- [Crypto Tax Reporting in 2025: What Investors and Traders Need to Know](https://taxlane.com/crypto-tax-reporting-in-2025-what-investors-and-traders-need-to-know/): Learn how the IRS is changing crypto tax rules in 2025, including Form 1099-DA, wallet-level reporting, and DeFi enforcement. Stay compliant and avoid penalties.
- [Hidden 2025 Tax Deductions: Tips, Overtime, and Auto Loan Interest](https://taxlane.com/hidden-2025-tax-deductions-tips-overtime-and-auto-loan-interest/): New 2025 deductions could mean big savings for taxpayers. Learn how to claim tip income, overtime pay, and auto loan interest deductions.
- [Senior Tax Strategies in 2025: How to Maximize the $6,000 Bonus Deduction](https://taxlane.com/senior-tax-strategies-in-2025-how-to-maximize-the-6000-bonus-deduction/): Seniors aged 65+ can qualify for a new $6,000 bonus deduction in 2025. Learn how to optimize your tax plan and avoid AGI phase-outs.
- [Is Your Side Hustle a Business or a Hobby in the Eyes of the IRS?](https://taxlane.com/is-your-side-hustle-a-business-or-a-hobby-in-the-eyes-of-the-irs/): The IRS draws a firm line between hobbies and businesses. If you run a side hustle, misclassifying it could lead to audits or denied deductions. Learn how the IRS defines each — and how to stay compliant.
- [Multi-State Taxes for the Self-Employed in 2025: What You Need to Know](https://taxlane.com/multi-state-taxes-for-the-self-employed-in-2025-what-you-need-to-know/): If you're self-employed and working across multiple states, your 2025 state tax obligations may be more complex than you think. Learn how to stay compliant.
- [Freelancer Tax Deductions 2025: What You Can Still Write Off](https://taxlane.com/freelancer-tax-deductions-2025-what-you-can-still-write-off/): Freelancer Tax Deductions 2025: Discover the top freelancer tax deductions allowed by the IRS in 2025. Learn what you can still write off and how to avoid audit risks.
- [Venmo Taxes – Do You Have to Report Venmo, PayPal, and Zelle Payments on Your Taxes?](https://taxlane.com/do-you-have-to-report-venmo-paypal-and-zelle-payments-on-your-taxes/): Venmo taxes explained: Learn when and how to report Venmo, PayPal, and Zelle payments on your taxes in 2025. Understand what counts as taxable income.
- [1099 vs W‑2: What’s the Difference and How Does It Affect Your Taxes?](https://taxlane.com/1099-vs-w%e2%80%912-whats-the-difference-and-how-does-it-affect-your-taxes/): Understand the difference between 1099 vs W‑2 and how each affects your taxes. Learn which classification applies to you in 2025 and what it means for your taxes.
- [Top 7 Tax Deductions You Can Claim for Your Side Hustle in 2025](https://taxlane.com/top-7-tax-deductions-you-can-claim-for-your-side-hustle-in-2025/): Discover the top tax deductions for your side hustle in 2025. Learn how to save money and lower your taxable income with these common business write-offs.
- [How to Avoid Common IRS Audit Triggers: Tips for 2025](https://taxlane.com/how-to-avoid-common-irs-audit-triggers-tips-for-2025/): Learn about common IRS audit triggers in 2025 and how to avoid them. Protect yourself by understanding red flags and filing your taxes accurately.
- [Top 10 Overlooked Tax Deductions and Credits for 2025](https://taxlane.com/top-10-overlooked-tax-deductions-and-credits-for-2025/): Discover 10 often-overlooked tax deductions and credits for 2025 that can save you money. See what you may qualify for this tax season.
- [Top Tax Strategies for High-Income Earners in 2025](https://taxlane.com/top-tax-strategies-for-high-income-earners-in-2025/): Discover the best tax strategies for high-income earners in 2025 to minimize taxes and keep more of your income.
- [How the 2025 Child Tax Credit Changes Could Impact Your Family](https://taxlane.com/how-the-2025-child-tax-credit-changes-could-impact-your-family/): Learn about the 2025 Child Tax Credit changes, new income thresholds, and tips to maximize your family’s tax benefit.
- [SaaS Taxes 2025: The Tax Challenges Every SaaS Business Must Understand](https://taxlane.com/saas-taxes-2025-the-tax-challenges-every-saas-business-must-understand/): SaaS taxes in 2025: Learn about sales tax, nexus, income tax, and VAT challenges for SaaS businesses and how to stay compliant.
- [What the 2025 IRS Inflation Adjustments Mean for Your Tax Bracket, Deductions, and Credits](https://taxlane.com/what-the-2025-irs-inflation-adjustments-mean-for-your-tax-bracket-deductions-and-credits/): 2025 IRS Inflation Adjustments: IRS raises tax brackets, deductions, and contribution limits for 2025. Here’s how to plan for the new thresholds and maximize your tax savings.
- [What the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Really Means for Social Security Taxes in 2025](https://taxlane.com/what-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-really-means-for-social-security-taxes-in-2025/): One Big Beautiful Bill offers seniors a temporary $6,000 deduction on Social Security taxes—but it doesn’t eliminate them. Here’s what 2025 filers must know.
- [Estimated Tax Payments for High-Income Individuals: What You Need to Know in 2025](https://taxlane.com/estimated-tax-payments-for-high-income-individuals-what-you-need-to-know-in-2025/): The estimated tax payment rules for high-income individuals can feel complicated, but understanding them is crucial to avoid penalties and interest. In this post, we’ll explain how estimated taxes work, why they matter, and what steps you should take in 2025 to stay compliant and minimize surprises.
- [SECURE Act 2.0 Retirement 2025: 4 Opportunities for Small Business Owners](https://taxlane.com/secure-act-2-0-retirement-2025-4-opportunities-for-small-business-owners/): SECURE Act 2.0 retirement changes take effect in 2025. Learn 4 opportunities for small business owners to save on taxes, attract employees, and stay compliant.
- [Learn the do’s and don’ts of SaaS sales tax in 2025 to stay compliant, avoid penalties, and protect your business as states expand taxation of cloud services.](https://taxlane.com/learn-the-dos-and-donts-of-saas-sales-tax-in-2025-to-stay-compliant-avoid-penalties-and-protect-your-business-as-states-expand-taxation-of-cloud-services/): Learn the do’s and don’ts of SaaS sales tax in 2025 to stay compliant, avoid penalties, and protect your business as states expand taxation of cloud services.
- [IRS Enforcement 2025: 4 Steps High-Income Taxpayers Must Take Now](https://taxlane.com/irs-enforcement-2025-4-steps-high-income-taxpayers-must-take-now/): IRS Enforcement 2025: 4 Steps High-Income Taxpayers Must Take Now
- [Tax Attorney for IRS Audit: Your Key to Successful Defense](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-for-irs-audit/): Facing an IRS audit? An experienced tax attorney for IRS audit can guide you through the process, protect your rights and minimize liabilities.
- [Choosing a Tax Attorney for Back Taxes: Essential Tips](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-for-back-taxes/): Facing IRS issues due to back taxes? Learn how choosing the right tax attorney can help resolve your tax problems and secure financial peace.
- [Insider Tips: How to Hire a Tax Attorney Effectively](https://taxlane.com/how-to-hire-a-tax-attorney/): Explore insider tips on how to hire a tax attorney. Learn their roles, benefits, and how to choose the right one for your unique tax needs.
- [Finding the Best Tax Lawyers Near Me: A Comprehensive Guide](https://taxlane.com/tax-lawyers-near-me/): Looking for tax lawyers near me? Discover how to find top-rated attorneys, understand complex tax laws, and handle IRS issues in our comprehensive guide.
- [Your Guide to Finding a Reliable Tax Attorney Near Me](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-near-me/): Need a tax attorney near me? Discover the role of tax attorneys, how they can resolve common issues, and tips to find one locally.
- [Choosing the Right Business Tax Attorney Near Me](https://taxlane.com/business-tax-attorney-near-me/): Seeking a business tax attorney near me? Learn how expert attorneys can help with IRS audits, strategic planning, and minimizing tax liabilities.
- [Finding Relief: The Role of a Tax Attorney in Pittsburgh](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-pittsburgh/): Explore Pittsburgh's tax laws with help from expert attorneys. Learn how a tax attorney in Pittsburgh can provide relief and guide you through IRS audits.
- [Expert Guide: How to Find a Tax Attorney for Your IRS Issues](https://taxlane.com/how-to-find-a-tax-attorney/): Struggling with IRS issues? Learn how to find a tax attorney who can guide you through complex tax laws and resolve your problems effectively. Start now!
- [Tax Attorney Advice: Navigating Complex Tax Issues](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-advice/): Explore expert tax attorney advice for complex issues. Learn how they can save you money, prevent litigation, and assist in wealth management.
- [Tax Attorney: What Do They Do and Why You Need One?](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-what-do-they-do/): Uncover the mystery of tax attorneys - what do they do, why you need one, and how they can save you from complex tax laws and IRS issues. Dive in now!
- [Boost Your Small Business Success with a Tax Attorney](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-for-small-business/): Boost your small business success with a tax attorney. Learn how they can navigate complex laws, provide advice and protect your assets.
- [Tax Attorney Pennsylvania: Your Guide to Navigating Tax Laws](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-pennsylvania/): Find the best tax attorney in Pennsylvania to help navigate complex state and IRS tax laws. Get expert guidance for all your tax issues today!
- [Can a Tax Attorney Negotiate with IRS? Your Key Guide](https://taxlane.com/can-a-tax-attorney-negotiate-with-irs/): Explore how a tax attorney can negotiate with IRS to reduce your debt, handle audits, and secure settlements. Learn the benefits now!
- [Expert Tax Attorney and CPA Near Me: Your Ultimate Guide](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-and-cpa-near-me/): Need a tax attorney and CPA near you? Our guide covers IRS audits to estate planning. Get expert help with your taxes today!
- [Your Guide on How to Find a Good Tax Attorney for Your Needs](https://taxlane.com/how-to-find-a-good-tax-attorney/): Uncover how to find a good tax attorney with our guide. Learn tips on hiring the best expert for your IRS issues and tax planning needs.
- [Can Tax Attorneys Really Help? Your Comprehensive Guide](https://taxlane.com/can-tax-attorneys-really-help/): Uncover if tax attorneys can really help with IRS issues, back taxes and more. Learn the benefits of hiring local experts in our comprehensive guide.
- [Tax Attorney vs Accountant: Your Guide to the Right Choice](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-vs-accountant/): Confused between a tax attorney vs accountant? Uncover their roles, differences, and know when to hire which in our insightful guide.
- [Navigating Tax Issues with a Pittsburgh, PA Attorney](https://taxlane.com/tax-attorney-pittsburgh-pa/): Navigating tax issues in Pittsburgh, PA? Discover how a seasoned tax attorney Pittsburgh PA can help resolve IRS problems and ensure financial stability.
- [Will A Lien Or A Levy Affect my Credit Score?](https://taxlane.com/lien-levy-affect-credit-score/): Tax time can be a daunting task for personal taxpayers, and especially for small business owners. What’s worse than going through the tedious motions of filing your taxes is getting a letter in the mail saying "you have a tax lien on your assets" or "you're being levied." 
- [The Best Advice for a Smooth Encounter with the IRS](https://taxlane.com/the-best-advice-for-a-smooth-encounter-with-the-irs/): No matter what your interactions with them are like, dealing with the IRS will likely lead you to experience some level of stress. That's why you should use a series of best practices when interacting with them to ensure the encounter runs as smoothly as possible from start to finish.
- [Why Does Your Business Keep Getting Audited?](https://taxlane.com/business-audit/): Some business owners may find themselves undergoing audits from the IRS with more frequency than they'd prefer. Not only are these audits an invasive and stressful process, but they also take valuable time away from the work day. Having to set aside time to meet with IRS employees, prepare the necessary materials ahead of the audit, and keep up-to-date on the status of the IRS' efforts can mean significant time lost for a company.
- [Subject to Wage Garnishment? Know Your Rights!](https://taxlane.com/blog-wage-garnishment/): When you think of wage garnishment, you think of someone who is financially irresponsible and has not properly taken care of their financial debts. There's no way this could happen to a hardworking, financially conscious business owner, right? Wrong! Take a journey with us for a moment. Let's say you are a small business owner. You diligently keep up with your finances and file your taxes every year.
- [How to Avoid Common Tax Planning Mistakes](https://taxlane.com/avoid-common-tax-planning-mistakes/): Good people make mistakes with their taxes all the time. Unfortunately, they don't always realize it and may find themselves in trouble with the IRS. Perhaps you find yourself in this position today and feel unsure of what to do next. Now that it's officially 2019 and time to work on your 2018 return, you may feel concerned about making tax errors. Below we address best practices for avoiding some of the most common tax planning mistakes and reporting errors.
- [What if You Can’t Pay the IRS?](https://taxlane.com/cant-pay-irs/): Facing a bill from the IRS is not an unusual occurrence. In fact, approximately 30 percent of taxpayers found themselves with a federal bill, owing the IRS money in 2017. Finding out that you owe the IRS is tough, but being unable to pay the IRS can be terrifying.
- [Do You Need Tax Relief? 10 Things You Need To Do if You Owe the IRS](https://taxlane.com/tax-relief-owe-irs): If you owe back taxes to the IRS, it can seem like there are few options available to you. The IRS is the largest collection agency in the world and has the power to garnish your wages and drain your bank account. Protecting yourself can feel impossible. However, if you follow these 10 steps, it will greatly increase your odds of success in obtaining the tax relief you need:
- [3 Tips for Dealing with Unfiled Tax Returns](https://taxlane.com/3-tips-for-dealing-with-unfiled-tax-returns/): Tax season comes around every year whether you are ready or not.  Most people prepare and file their returns on time every year.  Maybe you are one of those people who, for any number of reasons, never got around to filing your return.  Once you missed one return, the prospect of later filing two or more returns became overwhelming.  Before you knew it, you were several years behind and not sure how to remedy the situation.  Letters and notices from the IRS started to stack up on your desk, but you were too overwhelmed to open them.  Now is the time to change things.
- [Here we go again!  IRS set to begin using private collectors.](https://taxlane.com/here-we-go-again-irs-set-to-begin-using-private-collectors/): Have you ever noticed how some bad ideas tend to gain new life after a sufficient amount of time has passed for people to forget how bad they were the last time they were tried?  Well, the IRS is bringing back an oldie, but not-so-goodie, starting as early as next spring – private debt collectors.
- [IRS Testing Streamlined Processing of Installment Agreements](https://taxlane.com/irs-testing-streamlined-processing-of-installment-agreements/): The IRS is testing streamlined processing of certain installment agreements.
- [The IRS’s has proposed a fee increase for installment agreements…are there exceptions?](https://taxlane.com/the-irss-has-proposed-a-fee-increase-for-installment-agreementsare-there-exceptions/): YES, there are.
- [Uber, Airbnb and Turo.  The new “sharing” economy business model makes for complications with the IRS.](https://taxlane.com/uber-airbnb-and-turo-the-new-sharing-economy-business-model-makes-for-complications-with-the-irs/): Pooling resources among citizens is quickly becoming an effective way to reduce cost, and make ends meet during trying financial times. Households are discovering that sharing capabilities such as transportation and lodging can relieve financial pressures of day to day living. This model allows everyday people an opportunity to capitalize on owned assets to produce incremental revenue.  Both seller and consumer are winning as these services are increasing choice at generally more attractive prices.  Car rental, vacation housing and urban transportation, to name a few, are leading the way.
- [IRS Issues Warning About “Back To School” Scams](https://taxlane.com/irs-issues-scam-warning/): With students and parents preparing to face the start of the new school year, there's already a lot of running around and taking care of last minute details. The start of the new school year also brings tax scams.
- [Back-to-School Reminder for Parents and Students: College Tax Credits for 2014 and Years Ahead](https://taxlane.com/back-to-school-reminder-for-parents-and-students-college-tax-credits-for-2014-and-years-ahead/): With another school year now in full swing, the Internal Revenue Service today reminded parents and students that now is a good time to see if they will qualify for either of two college tax credits or any of several other education-related tax benefits when they file their 2014 federal income tax returns.
- [New IRS YouTube Video Provides Tips on Health Care, Tax Returns](https://taxlane.com/new-irs-youtube-video-provides-tips-on-health-care-tax-returns/): The Internal Revenue Service announced the availability of several new YouTube videos to help taxpayers get important information about the Affordable Care Act and tax return filing.
- [2012 Individual Income Tax Returns Complete Report Now Available](https://taxlane.com/2012-individual-income-tax-returns-complete-report-now-available/): On August 22, 2014, the Internal Revenue Service announced the availability of their report, Statistics of Income - 2012 Individual Income Tax Returns Complete Report (Publication 1304).  This report contains complete individual income tax data.  The statistics are based on a sample of individual income tax returns, selected before audit, which represents a population of Forms 1040, 1040A, and 1040EZ, including electronic returns.
- [IRS Taxpayer Bill of Rights Now Available in 6 Languages](https://taxlane.com/irs-taxpayer-bill-of-rights-now-available-in-6-languages/): On August 12, 2014, the IRS announced that the “Taxpayer Bill of Rights” is now available in six languages.  The current version of Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer, is now posted on www.IRS.gov.  The available languages include: English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Korean and Vietnamese.  By making this important publication available in multiple languages, the hope of the IRS is to increase the number of Americans who know and understand their rights under the tax law.
- [IRS Repeats Warning About Phone Scams](https://taxlane.com/irs-repeats-warning-about-phone-scams/): The Internal Revenue Service and Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (“TIGTA”) are still receiving complaints from taxpayers about unsolicited calls from people claiming to be from the IRS and demanding payment.  The TIGTA has identified approximately 1,100 victims who have lost a total of $5 million from these scammers.
- [Tax Season Opens Today!](https://taxlane.com/tax-season-opens-today/): The Internal Revenue Service will begin accepting electronically filed individual tax returns today (Jan. 31, 2014) to officially open the 2014 filing season.  The IRS encourages taxpayers to use e-file as one of the fastest way to receive refunds.
- [Numbers for use in 2013 Returns](https://taxlane.com/numbers-for-use-in-2013-returns/): Every year, the IRS adjusts many of the common tax deductions for inflation.  Among these are the standard deduction for each filing status, the personal exemption allowance, and the maximum allowable Earned Income Credit for qualifying families.  For the tax year 2013, the agency has also added a new tax rate for those who earn $400,000 or more in a single year.
- [The Sales Tax Deduction](https://taxlane.com/the-sales-tax-deduction/): The sales tax deduction is one of the little-known deductions available to individuals.  Because taxpayers must choose between claiming the sales tax deduction or the state income tax deduction, most tend to claim their state taxes.  In some cases, though, claiming the sales tax deduction may result in a lower tax bill.
- [New for 2013: The Net Investment Income Tax](https://taxlane.com/new-for-2013-the-net-investment-income-tax/): The 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (“NIIT”) was passed as part of the 2010 Affordable Care Act.  It went into effect on January 1, 2013 and it applies to investment income only.  The IRS has released extensive proposed regulations detailing the application of the NIIT.  The basics are below.
- [IRS Announces 2014 Filing Season Delay](https://taxlane.com/irs-announces-2014-filing-season-delay/): This blog brought to you by TaxLane, LLC, providing tax preparation and consulting services to individuals and small businesses.
- [Job Search and Moving Expenses](https://taxlane.com/job-search-and-moving-expenses/): Many taxpayers are unaware that they may be able to deduct the costs of searching for a job or moving to start work for a new employer.  The IRS allows taxpayers to write off their reasonable moving expenses under certain conditions, as well as the necessary expenses involved in searching for employment.  However, in order to receive the deductions, taxpayers must meet certain qualifications as to the types of costs they claim and the reasons for their relocation.
- [Casualty Losses for Natural Disasters](https://taxlane.com/casualty-losses-for-natural-disasters/): According to the IRS, taxpayers can claim casualty losses from all kinds of natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods.  In general, the criteria for claiming a casualty loss as a tax deduction is that it must be a “sudden event.”  Because most natural disasters meet this standard, taxpayers are generally able to write these costs off on their taxes.
- [Tax Effects of a Home Foreclosure](https://taxlane.com/tax-effects-of-a-home-foreclosure/): If you’re facing a home foreclosure, you are probably already concerned about your financial future.  However, in some cases, you may find that your foreclosure comes with an unexpected problem: a tax bill.  Some situations may result in a taxable gain that may cause you to owe additional tax to the federal government with your return.  It’s important to understand when your foreclosure could trigger a gain and whether you’ll qualify for any tax exclusions.
- [The Student Loan Interest Deduction](https://taxlane.com/the-student-loan-interest-deduction/): Taxpayers who are making payments on student loans may qualify to deduct the interest portion of their payments on their federal income tax returns.  According to the IRS, the student loan interest deduction is available to those who meet certain conditions and income restrictions.
- [Who Can Be Claimed as a Dependent for Tax Purposes?](https://taxlane.com/who-can-be-claimed-as-a-dependent-for-tax-purposes/): Almost everyone claims dependents when they file their tax return.  However, it’s not always easy to determine which individuals qualify for dependent exemptions; and claiming an ineligible dependent can increase the likelihood of an IRS audit of your return.
- [The Child Tax Credit](https://taxlane.com/the-child-tax-credit/): The Child Tax Credit is a credit that is available to eligible parents of children younger than age 17 at the end of the tax year.  Individuals who qualify can receive a credit of up to $1,000 per child against the amount of their tax liability.  The credit reduces a taxpayer’s tax dollar-for-dollar, which can make it very valuable on a return.
- [Head of Household Filing Status](https://taxlane.com/head-of-household-filing-status/): Taxpayers who are eligible for Head of Household filing status receive an increased standard deduction on their returns and may qualify to use special tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit.  To use this status, however, taxpayers must meet certain requirements.
- [Rules for Claiming Noncash Charitable Deductions](https://taxlane.com/rules-for-claiming-noncash-charitable-deductions/): Did you donate some of your household items to charity during the past year?  If so, you may be eligible to deduct the value of these items as a charitable contribution on your federal income tax return.  The IRS allows taxpayers to claim an itemized deduction for these items as long as they meet certain standards.
- [Are Social Security Benefits Taxable?](https://taxlane.com/are-social-security-benefits-taxable/): Many taxpayers are under the impression that Social Security benefits are not taxable income. While this is true for most taxpayers, some individuals do have to pay taxes on their Social Security benefits.  Knowing if this law applies to you can help you prepare for your potential tax liability.
- [IRS Expands E-filing – adds additional forms](https://taxlane.com/irs-expands-e-filing-adds-additional-forms/): The IRS announced that it started accepting Form 4562 (Depreciation and Amortization) for processing on Sunday, February 10, 2013.  Form 8863 (Education Credits) should be ready for processing on Thursday, February 14, 2013.
- [Where’s My Refund? – IRS promises quick updates for e-filers](https://taxlane.com/wheres-my-refund-irs-promises-quick-updates-for-e-filers/): Through its online service, Where’s My Refund?, the IRS promises to be able to provide you with the status of your return within 24 hours of e-filing.  If you file on paper, the status of your return might not be available for 4 weeks after the IRS receives your return.
- [IRS Announces Home Office Deduction Safe Harbor](https://taxlane.com/irs-announces-home-office-deduction-safe-harbor/): The IRS recently released Rev. Proc. 2013-13, which provides an optional safe harbor method that individual taxpayers may use to determine their home office expense deduction.  The new method is an alternative to the current requirements of IRC § 280A and is effective for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2013.
- [Important Numbers for 2012 Returns](https://taxlane.com/important-numbers-for-2012-returns/): The following numbers apply to 2012 returns:
- [Start of Tax Season! – IRS sets the date](https://taxlane.com/start-of-tax-season-irs-sets-the-date/): The IRS has announced that it will start accepting most individual returns on January 30, 2013.  That is a little later than usual, due in large part to all of the programming and form changes resulting from the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012.
- [IRS Interest Rates to remain the same for 1st Qtr. 2013](https://taxlane.com/irs-interest-rates-to-remain-the-same-for-1st-qtr-2013/): The Internal Revenue Service has announced that interest rates will remain the same for the calendar quarter beginning Jan. 1, 2013.  The rates will be:
- [IRS Announces New Mileage Rates for 2013](https://taxlane.com/irs-announces-new-mileage-rates-for-2013/): The IRS has announced standard mileage rates for 2013.
- [Allegheny County Reassessment – Average Values By Municipality and School District Now Available Online!](https://taxlane.com/allegheny-county-reassessment-average-values-by-municipality-and-school-district-now-available-online/): The Allegheny County Office of Property Assessment has added a section to its website that allows you to view the average increase in 2013 property reassessment values broken down by municipality and school district.  This information will be helpful to anyone out there who is on the fence about whether to appeal their 2013 property reassessment.
- [Allegheny County Reassessment – Deadline for Appeals Rapidly Approaching!](https://taxlane.com/allegheny-county-reassessment-deadline-for-appeals-rapidly-approaching/): It is estimated that as many as 100,000 assessment appeals will be filed in Allegheny County.  If you are interested in filing a formal appeal of your 2013 assessment, please note:
- [Allegheny County Assessment – Northern and Western Suburban Values Now Online!](https://taxlane.com/allegheny-county-assessment-northern-and-western-suburban-values-now-online/): New values for the northern and western suburbs are scheduled to be mailed out today, and are already available online at the county’s property assessment website.  Based on a quick look at values for some northern properties, it looks like more of the same.  The new assessment values are mostly increases (some significant), with an occasional property that shows a decrease in value.  Just as with the previously released values for the county, some property owners are seeing particularly large increases in the land portion of their reassessment.
- [IRS Warns of Phony Tax Scheme Abusing the American Opportunity Tax Credit](https://taxlane.com/irs-warns-of-phony-tax-scheme-abusing-the-american-opportunity-tax-credit/): The IRS warned taxpayers today to be aware of a new scam targeting senior citizens and other taxpayers.  As part of the scam, taxpayers are encouraged to file returns claiming the American Opportunity Tax Credit.  The scammers mislead these taxpayers into believing that they are eligible to claim the credit, even if they don’t meet the credit’s requirements.
- [Allegheny County Assessment – Northern and Western Suburban Values Delayed](https://taxlane.com/allegheny-county-assessment-northern-and-western-suburban-values-delayed/): Apparently, a computer glitch will result in a delay in the mailing of notices for property owners in the northern and western suburbs of Allegheny County until next Wednesday, March 7, 2012.  This last batch of reassessment notices were originally scheduled to be mailed on March 2, 2012, according to the Allegheny County Property Assessment website.
- [Avoid the Tax Bite of Early Retirement Distributions](https://taxlane.com/avoid-the-tax-bite-of-early-retirement-distributions/): With the burst of the housing bubble, many people don’t have the luxury of tapping the equity in their home to fund large purchases.  What some have resorted to instead are early distributions from their retirement plans.  Most people don’t realize the tax consequences that go along with these early distributions.
- [IRS FY 2013 Budget – They’re Back!](https://taxlane.com/irs-fy-2013-budget-theyre-back/): The IRS has released details of its FY 2013 budget request.  The current request is approximately $12.8 billion, representing about an 8% increase over 2012.
- [Allegheny County 2012 Assessment – Southern Suburban Values Now Online](https://taxlane.com/allegheny-county-2012-assessment-southern-suburban-values-now-online/): Right on schedule, the new assessment values for properties in the southern suburbs of Allegheny County are now available for viewing online.  They will most likely be received by property owners in Tuesday’s mail.  Values for the western and northern suburbs aren’t scheduled to be released until March 2, 2012, but may be available as early as February 27, 2012.
- [IRS Warns Taxpayers on Identity Theft](https://taxlane.com/irs-warns-taxpayers-on-identity-theft/): The IRS recently released its list of the top 12 tax scams for 2012.  At the top of the list is Identity Theft.  The IRS reports that identify theft cases are a growing concern and are among the most difficult cases that they handle.  In an effort to combat identity theft, the IRS has initiated a comprehensive strategy focused on preventing, detecting and resolving identity theft cases as early as possible.
- [Beware! – Tax Consequences of Unemployment Benefits](https://taxlane.com/beware-tax-consequences-of-unemployment-benefits/): Many people are surprised at this time of year when they prepare their federal tax returns and realize that the unemployment benefits they received are considered taxable income.  For many people, this can make the difference between a refund and a balance due.

## Pages
- [IRS People First Initiative](https://taxlane.com/irs-people-first-initiative/): To help people facing the challenges of COVID-19 issues, the Internal Revenue Service announced a sweeping series of steps to assist taxpayers by providing relief on a variety of issues ranging from easing payment guidelines to postponing compliance actions.
- [Privacy Policy](https://taxlane.com/privacy-policy/): Our website address is: http://taxlane.com.
- [Fresh Start Program](https://taxlane.com/fresh-start-program/): TaxLane, LLC3000 McKnight East DriveSuite 350Pittsburgh, PA 15237
- [Offer in Compromise](https://taxlane.com/offer-in-compromise/): Struggling with IRS tax debt? Learn how the Offer in Compromise program can help you settle for less than you owe. Get eligibility tips, payment options, and download our free OIC preparation checklist to improve your chances of approval.
- [Back Tax Returns](https://taxlane.com/back-tax-returns/): Before the IRS will discuss resolution of your back-tax debt, they will require that you be in “compliance” with all of your filing obligations. This means filing all prior year returns, and making current year estimated payments, if necessary. We can assist you by determining what outstanding obligations you have and preparing tax returns for you for prior years. Once we bring you into compliance, we can start the process of dealing with the amount you owe.
- [Settlement of Back Payroll Taxes](https://taxlane.com/settlement-back-payroll-taxes/): TaxLane, LLC3000 McKnight East DriveSuite 350Pittsburgh, PA 15237
- [Settlement of Tax Debts and Penalty Abatement](https://taxlane.com/settlement-tax-debts-penalty-abatement/): TaxLane, LLC3000 McKnight East DriveSuite 350Pittsburgh, PA 15237
- [Lien and Levy Removal](https://taxlane.com/lien-levy-removal/): TaxLane, LLC3000 McKnight East DriveSuite 350Pittsburgh, PA 15237
- [Tax Audit and Controversy](https://taxlane.com/tax-audit-controversy/): TaxLane, LLC3000 McKnight East DriveSuite 350Pittsburgh, PA 15237
- [Individual and Business Tax Planning](https://taxlane.com/individual-business-tax-planning/): TaxLane, LLC3000 McKnight East DriveSuite 350Pittsburgh, PA 15237
- [Terms and Conditions](https://taxlane.com/terms-and-conditions/): This blog site provides only general information about the law and does not, under any circumstances, constitute legal advice or create an attorney client relationship. You should not act or refrain from acting based on these materials without first obtaining the advice of professional legal counsel.
The law in general, and tax law in particular, is complex. Often times, the answer to any given question depends on the specific facts involved. The information provided in this blog should not be used as a substitute for obtaining competent legal advice.
The information contained in this blog is provided on an “as is” basis, without warranties of any kind, express or implied. It is not intended to provide legal advice.
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