Tax Forms: Cracking the Code
There are a slew of new tax breaks for 2009 returns, but you have to know how to claim them.
Schedule L This is the form that non-itemizers use to claim additions to the standard deduction, including the property-tax deduction, the sales-tax deduction on new vehicles, and disaster losses.
Schedule M You must fill out this new schedule to claim the Making Work Pay credit, even if you already received the benefit through lower tax withholding from your paycheck during the year. (Taxpayers who file Form 1040EZ must use the worksheet for the credit on the back of the form.)
Form 5405 Use it to claim the home-buyer credit for new and existing homeowners.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Form 5695 This is the form to use to claim the credit for making energy-efficient home improvements or installing renewable-energy systems.
Form 8863 Use this form to claim the new American Opportunity tax credit and other education tax credits.
Get Kiplinger Today newsletter — free
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.
-
Take Charge of Retirement Spending With This Simple Strategy
To make sure you're in control of retirement spending, rather than the other way around, allocate funds to just three purposes: income, protection and legacy.
By Mark Gelbman, CFP® Published
-
Here's How To Get Organized And Work For Yourself
Whether you’re looking for a side gig or planning to start your own business, it has never been easier to strike out on your own. Here is our guide to navigating working for yourself.
By Laura Petrecca Published
-
Kiplinger's Tax Map for Middle-Class Families: About Our Methodology
state tax The research behind our judgments.
By David Muhlbaum Published
-
Retirees, Make These Midyear Moves to Cut Next Year's Tax Bill
Tax Breaks Save money next April by making these six hot-as-July tax moves.
By Rocky Mengle Published
-
Estimated Payments or Withholding in Retirement? Here's Some Guidance
Budgeting You generally must pay taxes throughout the year on your retirement income. But it isn't always clear whether withholding or estimated tax payments is the best way to pay.
By Rocky Mengle Published
-
How to Cut Your 2021 Tax Bill
Tax Breaks Our guidance could help you claim a higher refund or reduce the amount you owe.
By Sandra Block Published
-
Why This Tax Filing Season Could Be Ugly
Coronavirus and Your Money National Taxpayer Advocate Erin M. Collins warns the agency will continue to struggle with tight budgets and backlogs. Her advice: File electronically!
By Sandra Block Published
-
Con Artists Target People Who Owe The IRS Money
Scams In one scheme, thieves will offer to "help" you pay back taxes, only to leave you on the hook for expensive fees in addition to the taxes.
By Rivan V. Stinson Published
-
Cash-Rich States Lower Taxes
Tax Breaks The economic turnaround sparked a wave of cuts in state tax rates. But some say the efforts could backfire.
By Sandra Block Published
-
The Financial Effects of Losing a Spouse
Financial Planning Even amid grief, it's important to reassess your finances. With the loss of your spouse's income, you may find yourself in a lower tax bracket or that you qualify for new deductions or credits.
By Rocky Mengle Published