Health insurance is easier to get these days, and more Americans are covered now thanks to the Affordable Care Act, known to many as “Obamacare”. But you do have to
Changes to New York Estate Tax Laws (Good News!)
Until recently, New York residents who died with estates exceeding $1,000,000 in value were subject to the State estate tax. (Note: This is separate from the Federal estate tax exclusion,
The Tax Benefits of Owning a Home
This is the seventh post in my “Taxes for Your Family” series. There is a lot of confusion about the tax benefits of owning a home. But what are they?
Tax Advantages of Retirement Accounts
This is the sixth post in my “Taxes for Your Family” series. I’m always surprised when people don’t take advantage of tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Don’t they realize it’s the best
When to Consider Paying Off Your Mortgage
With interest rates likely to increase, you may be in no hurry to pay off your mortgage. After all, you may not be able to get such a low interest
What is the AMT and Who Pays It?
I really strive to explain complex topics in a straightforward way. But the AMT is a toughie. Our “main” tax code is complicated enough. But there is actually a second
Financial Planning Checklist for New Parents
This article appeared first at local parenting blog A Child Grows in Brooklyn. New parents are busy. When it comes to financial planning, they just want to make sure they
Should You Get Help to File Your Taxes?
Tax time is officially here. But how should you get it done? Should you do it yourself or hire outside help? I have mixed feelings on this issue. On the
The Reason to Itemize Your Taxes (Or Not)
This is the second post in my “Taxes for Your Family” series. Back when you were a young and fancy-free, your taxes were simple as pie. You probably rented a
