Congress Extends Tax Breaks

Congress, in an eleventh-hour compromise agreement worked out with the Obama Administration and the GOP Leadership, has extended many of the Bush era tax reductions.  The following is an overview of the more frequently encountered tax changes that will have an effect on just about every taxpayer. INDIVIDUAL PROVISIONS Individual Tax Rates – Under the […]

Is The Tax Stalemate Finally Broken?

In a news conference held December 7, and carried live by most major networks, President Obama discussed the tax agreement he had worked out with the GOP’s Congressional leaders the previous day. Although there is some discontent with the agreement among some liberal Democrats, it is expected to pass Congress before year-end. Keep in mind that this agreement – which primarily addresses tax cuts enacted in 2001 and 2003 (the “Bush era”) that have or will soon expire – has not yet become law and must first pass both houses of Congress, and there could be some modification to the original agreement.

Tax Rumors Abound

There are two false tax rumors that have been circulating around and troubling clients.  To set the record straight, a brief explanation of both rumors is provided below. False Rumor #1 – “Employer-paid health insurance benefits will be taxable in 2011.” Not true! Starting in 2011, the amount of employer-paid healthcare benefits was to be […]

Congress Will Have to Take Action to Stop Tax Increases

Normally, one would think that Congress would have to take some action to increase taxes. However, it is quite the opposite for 2011. If Congress fails to take action, in spite of the fact that President Obama vowed no new taxes for individuals earning less than $200,000 and families earning less than $250,000, there will […]

2009 Economic Stimulus Act

On February 17, President Obama signed into law the “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009” (the 2009 Economic Stimulus Act).  This new legislation was passed with the purpose of aiding our ailing economy and includes a wide variety of tax provisions, many of which will affect both individuals and small businesses.  Included below are […]