Category: Personal Finance
SR Client Question: Can adding my child to our Michigan home’s title prevent the property tax value from uncapping when I pass?
If you add your child as a co-owner of real property, he or she won’t get a full step up in basis when it is sold after your passing. Also, there is a risk of re-assessment for real estate taxes...
Down market could be right time to convert IRA to Roth IRA
The recent market downturn has reduced the value of many IRA accounts, presenting a potential opportunity to convert IRAs into Roth IRAs. While converting, taxes will be owed on the converted IRA value, but with current lower asset values, the...
Understanding the key elements of the SECURE Act
The SECURE Act, signed into law recently, introduces significant changes impacting retirement and tax planning starting in 2020. Here are the key provisions affecting individuals: Repeal of Traditional IRA Age Limit: Individuals can now contribute to a traditional IRA regardless...
Make the most of your non-cash donations this holiday season
Many New Year resolutions involve clearing unwanted items out of the house. Here are five tips taxpayers should consider when making non-cash donations in an effort to keep your New Year Resolution: Assess Item Condition: Ensure items like clothing and...
Department of Treasury reminds Michiganders that Principal Residence Exemption doesn’t expire
The Michigan Department of Treasury is reminding Michiganders that a Principal Residence Exemption – known as a PRE – does not expire. Inaccurate posts being shared on social media are claiming that Michigan taxpayers will experience a surge in property...
Guest Author Jim Niedzinski, CFP®, AIF®: The Benefits of Donor-Advised Funds
Jim Niedzinski, Wealth Advisor from Planning Alternatives, shares how to save taxes on charitable donations and make giving easier with a donor-advised fund. Jim Niedzinski, CFP®, AIF® , Wealth Advisor at Planning Alternatives, discusses the benefits of Donor-Advised Funds Jim Niedzinski is in his 20th year as a wealth...
Explaining the taxability of professional athletes
Nonresident professional athletes must use the "duty days" method to determine their Michigan income tax obligations. Personal Service Income Income tax is calculated by multiplying the athlete's personal service income by a fraction. The numerator is the total Michigan duty...
SR Client Question: Are concierge medicine expenses FSA-eligible?
Concierge medicine, a highly attentive approach to healthcare, is gaining popularity. Patients pay additional fees for personalized care and enhanced access to their doctors. With fewer patients, doctors are more available for consultations, offering a refreshing alternative to brief appointments...
Tax Reform Planning Series: Take advantage of the new child tax credit
Before the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), the child tax credit was $1,000 per qualifying child, but it was reduced for married couples filing jointly by $50 for every $1,000 (or part of $1,000) by which their Adjusted Gross...
Tax Reform Planning Series: Maximize home mortgage interest deductions
Before the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), taxpayers could deduct interest paid on up to $1 million ($500,000 if married filing separately) of home acquisition debt (debt used to buy or substantially improve a first or second home). Also,...