Taxes and Tax Planning - SmartFinance Guide

Tax Deductions and Credits You Might Be Missing Taxes and Tax Planning

Tax Benefits for Parents: Childcare, Adoption, and Education Credits You Didn’t Know About

Understanding Dependent Care Tax CreditsFor many parents in the United States, the cost of childcare can put a significant strain on the family budget. Fortunately, the federal government offers tax…

Aoi Takahashi June 21, 2025

Tax-Advantaged Investment Accounts Taxes and Tax Planning

Common Mistakes in Tax-Advantaged Investment Accounts and How to Avoid Them

1. Overlooking Contribution LimitsOne of the most common mistakes Americans make with tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, and HSAs is not paying close attention to annual contribution limits. Both exceeding…

Elizabeth Martinez June 16, 2025

How to Maximize Your Tax Refund Taxes and Tax Planning

Maximizing Your Tax Refund as a Freelancer or Gig Worker

Understanding Your Freelancer Tax SituationIf you’re a freelancer or gig worker in the U.S., taxes can feel like a whole new world compared to having a regular 9-to-5 job. Let’s…

Layla Johnson June 16, 2025

Tax Deductions and Credits You Might Be Missing Taxes and Tax Planning

Business Expenses: Uncommon Tax Deductions for Small Business Owners

Introduction to Uncommon Tax DeductionsWhen you run a small business, every dollar counts—especially at tax time. Most small business owners know about the basics like office supplies and travel expenses,…

Oliver Anderson June 13, 2025

Tax Deductions and Credits You Might Be Missing Taxes and Tax Planning

Retirement Contributions: Overlooked Tax Advantages in IRAs and 401(k)s

1. Understanding the Basics of IRAs and 401(k)sWhen it comes to planning for retirement in the United States, two of the most popular tools are Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and…

Aoi Takahashi May 26, 2025

Filing as a Freelancer or Gig Worker Taxes and Tax Planning

Navigating Form 1099-NEC and 1099-K: What Gig Workers Need to Report and How

1. Understanding Form 1099-NEC and 1099-KIf you’re a gig worker in the U.S.—maybe driving for Uber, delivering for DoorDash, or freelancing online—you’ve probably heard about Form 1099-NEC and Form 1099-K.…

Aoi Takahashi May 20, 2025

Tax-Advantaged Investment Accounts Taxes and Tax Planning

The Hidden Tax Benefits of Health Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

1. What Is a Health Flexible Spending Account (FSA)?A Health Flexible Spending Account, or FSA, is a special savings account offered by many employers in the United States as part…

Aoi Takahashi May 18, 2025

How to Maximize Your Tax Refund Taxes and Tax Planning

How to Use Tax Software Effectively to Ensure the Biggest Refund Possible

1. Choosing the Right Tax Software for Your NeedsWhen it comes to getting the biggest refund possible, picking the right tax software is your first and most important step. Not…

Aoi Takahashi May 11, 2025

How to Maximize Your Tax Refund Taxes and Tax Planning

How Health Care Expenses Can Help You Increase Your Tax Refund

1. Understanding Deductible Health Care ExpensesWhat Are Deductible Medical and Dental Expenses?When tax season rolls around, many Americans are surprised to learn that certain health care costs can help lower…

Aoi Takahashi May 9, 2025

Understanding Federal Income Tax Brackets Taxes and Tax Planning

Tax Brackets and Retirement Planning: Key Considerations for the American Retiree

1. Understanding the U.S. Tax Bracket SystemIf you’re planning for retirement in America, understanding how the U.S. tax bracket system works is a must. The federal government uses a progressive…

Aoi Takahashi May 8, 2025