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Tax Day is right around the corner – and it can sneak up on you quickly. Don’t get caught off guard this tax season! Filing for a tax extension can buy you some time to thoroughly review your taxes and file with complete accuracy without being in a rush. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding tax extensions:

1. What exactly is a tax extension?

Filing for a tax extension means you are requesting extra time to file your tax return to the IRS—but you are still required to pay your taxes by Tax Day, April 15^th. To file for an extension, submit Form 4868 to the IRS by April 15^th. If your extension is approved, your new tax filing date is October 15^th.

2. Pros of tax extensions?

Filing for a tax extension can benefit you in many ways. First, simply having more time to go through your documents and accurately providing your tax information is an advantage. Also, you can avoid paying late filing fees, save on tax prep fees, and you’ll likely have more time to seek a potential refund. If you can’t file your taxes on time, it is best to file for an extension.

3. Cons of tax extensions?

There are a few “cons” that come with filing for a tax extension. Taking longer to file your taxes means you must continue stressing about filing them until it gets done. If you are filing for a tax extension – you still must pay off your taxes by April 15^th. If you are looking for an extension on paying your taxes, the IRS offers payment plans.

4. What are some reasons to file a tax extension?

There are many reasons to file for a tax extension. Maybe you don’t have all the records and documents you need to file by April 15^th. Or maybe you are working on changing your retirement plan? You may even have an emergency in your life that prevents you from filing on time. Whatever the case may be, filing an extension allows you more time to file your taxes.

5. Is filing for a tax extension “bad”?

Filing for a tax extension is not considered a bad thing. A crucial part of filing taxes is providing correct and accurate information to the IRS. Filing for an extension allows you to prepare your taxes and information correctly, and despite what many people believe, filing for an extension does not increase the odds of you getting audited.

It can be a great way to save yourself from stress and ensure you are providing correct information to the IRS. Tax season can be chaotic, demanding, and tense. If you are still struggling to decide whether you should file for an extension, contact Warren Accounting. We can help with individual or business tax preparation and provide you peace of mind.

With Tax Day right around the corner, here are eight things you should keep in mind as you prepare your 2023 taxes. If you have any questions or need help filing your 2023 taxes Warren Accounting is here to help you.

1. Income tax brackets shifted.

There are still seven tax rates (brackets) but the income ranges for each have changed slightly to account for inflation. The following tax rates and income ranges will apply for 2023.

2. Slight increase to the standard deduction.

The standard deduction increases to $13,850 for single filers and married couples filing separately. Single head of household filers, who are generally unmarried with one or more dependents, rises to $20,800. And the standard deduction for married couples filing jointly increased to $27,700.

3. The Child Tax Credit could provide a tax break.

Tax credits are normally better than deductions. Credits reduce the tax you owe dollar for dollar and deductions reduce how much of your income is subject to being taxed. The Child Tax Credit is $2,000 per child under age 17. The credit is also subject to a phase-out starting at $400,000 for joint filers and $200,000 for single filers. For other qualified dependents, you can claim a $500 credit.

4. Itemized deductions are mostly the same.

For many filers, taking the higher standard deduction saves them the hassle of keeping track of their receipts. However, if you have a large amount of tax-deductible expenses, it may be beneficial for you to itemize. The rules for itemized deductions have not changed much, but we would like to point them out.

Local & State Taxes: The deduction for state and local income taxes, property taxes, and real estate taxes is $10,000.

Mortgage Interest: The mortgage interest deduction is limited to $750,000 of indebtedness. But if you had $1,000,000 of home mortgage debt before December 16, 2017, you will still be able to deduct the interest on that loan.

Medical expenses: Medical expenses must exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income (AGI) can be deducted in 2023.

Charitable donations: The annual income tax deduction limits for gifts to public charities are 30% of AGI for contributions of non-cash assets—if held for more than one year—and 60% of AGI for contributions of cash. If you give both can and non-cash assets, the overall limit is generally 50% of AGI.

Miscellaneous deductions: No miscellaneous itemized deductions are allowed.

5. 401(k) and IRA limits are slightly more.

Contribution limits for the traditional IRA and Roth increased slightly from 2022. Individuals can contribute up to $6,500 to an IRA. If you are age 50 and older, you qualify to make an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution. In addition, the contribution limits for tax-deferred 401(k)s and Roth 401(k)s increased to $22,500. And, if you are age 50 or older, you qualify to make an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution.

If you are in the position to do so, consider maxing out your contributions. By doing this you are boosting your retirement savings, and it could also provide a possible tax deduction.

6. You can save more in your health savings account (HSA).

The maximum contribution to an HSA is $3,850 for an individual (up $50 from 2021) and $7,750 for a family (up $100). People aged 55 and older can contribute an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution.

7. The alternative minimum tax (AMT) exemption is higher.

Until the AMT exemption enacted by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expires in 2025, the AMT will continue to affect mostly households with incomes over $500,000. The AMT exemptions are $81,300 for single filers and $126,500 for married taxpayers filing jointly. The phase-out thresholds are $1,156,300 for married taxpayers filing a joint return and $578,150 for all other taxpayers. (Once your income for the AMT hits the phase-out threshold, your AMT exemption begins to phase out at 25 cents for every dollar over the threshold.)

8. The estate tax exemption increased.

The estate and gift tax exemption rose to $12,920,000 for 2023. The higher exemption, set to expire at the end of 2025,  could be cut in half at that time if Congress does not act.

The annual gift exclusion, which allows you to give money to your loved ones each year without incurring any tax liability or using up any of your lifetime estate and gift tax exemption, increases to $17,000 per recipient (up $1,000 from 2022).

Here is a list of some of the most common documents needed to prepare a tax return. Before you begin to prepare your income tax return, go through the following checklist. Not every category will apply to you, so just pick those that do, and make sure you have that information available. You’ll be surprised how much time you’ll save by organizing your information ahead of time.

And remember, if you’ve had any life changes, chances are the documents you will need for your taxes have changed too!

Personal Information

-Social Security numbers and dates of birth for everyone on your tax return

-Copies of last year’s tax return for you and your spouse (helpful, but not required)

-Bank account number and routing number, if depositing your refund directly into your account

Income Information

-Wage statement (W-2)

– Unemployment statement (1099-G)

-Pension and IRA income (1099-R)

-Social Security income (1099-SSA)

-Interest, dividends, and income from sales of stock or property (1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-B, 1099-S)

-HSA distributions (1099-SA)

-State income tax refund from prior year (1099-G)

-Alimony received

-Business or farming income – profit/loss statement, capital equipment information

-Prior year installment sale information – Forms 6252, principal and interest collected during the  year, SSN and address for payer

-Miscellaneous income: jury duty, gambling winnings, Medical Savings Account, scholarships, etc.

Credits & Deductions

-Student loan interest paid (1098-E)

-College tuition, fees, and books (1098-T, cashier’s office statement)

-Childcare expenses (need provider’s name, address, and EIN or SSN)

-Medical expenses (unreimbursed insurance, doctor, healthcare facility, and prescription costs)

-For teachers: Canceled checks or receipts for expenses paid for classroom supplies, etc.

-Taxes paid (personal property/vehicle taxes, estimated tax payments made during the year)

-Real estate taxes paid, and mortgage interest paid (1098)

-Charitable donations (receipts for cash and non-cash donations) – even if you don’t itemize

-Expenses related to any 1099-MISC income (receipts, mileage logs, etc.)

-Advance Child Tax Credit amounts received (IRS Letter 6419)

Information Documents

-5498 series forms showing contributions to HSAs, IRAs, etc.

-Bank information for direct deposit of refunds (account and routing numbers)

-Health insurance coverage (1095-A, 1095-B, or 1095-C depending on circumstance; must have 1095-A if anyone in the tax household received Marketplace Insurance)

-IRS notice detailing third stimulus payment (1444-C)

Rental Property

-Record of income (1099-MISC, checkbook register, bank statements, etc.)

-Record of expenses (repairs, cleaning, travel to property, mortgage, insurance, utilities, etc.)

-Depreciation record (cost of assets, date placed into service, prior depreciation taken)

-Documents related to PPP loan and forgiveness and/or EIDL advance and loan

Self-Employed

-Record of income (1099-NEC, 1099-K, receipt book, bank statements, etc.)

-Record of expenses (home office, inventory costs, advertising, fees and taxes paid, travel, etc.)

-Depreciation record for any assets (cost, date placed into service, prior depreciation taken)

-Documents related to PPP loan and forgiveness and/or EIDL advance and loan

Once you have all your documents together, give us a call and let Warren Accounting Group help you file your 2023 tax return. We’re an independent, locally owned accounting and bookkeeping service offering a full range of services and strategies to help businesses and individuals maximize resources and minimize tax liabilities. Our experienced staff is knowledgeable about current tax laws, give us a call and let us put our experience to work for your family or business, (252) 827-5259!

Importance of Tax Preparation

Tax season can be a stressful time, but when you have the right strategies in place, it doesn’t have to be. Proper tax preparation is not only about compliance, but it is an opportunity to reduce your financial burden and maximize your savings. Here’s why tax preparation is so important.

Benefits of Proper Tax Preparation

There are many benefits to proper tax preparation. First, it ensures that you are compliant with tax laws and regulations, which can help you avoid potential penalties or legal issues. Second, you can maximize your tax deductions and credits, which will ultimately reduce your tax liability and increase your refund, or it can help minimize your payment. When you organize your financial documents and records, preparing your taxes is easier and helps decision-making throughout the year. It can also provide you with a clear overview of your financial situation, which enables you to identify areas of improvement, so you make better informed financial decisions. Finally, accurate tax preparation saves you time and stress during the filing process and minimizes your chances of errors or omissions.

Key Steps in Tax Preparation Process

Tax preparation involves several steps to ensure the process goes smoothly. Gather all the necessary financial documents, such as W-2 forms and receipts, to ensure accurate reporting. Next, organize and categorize your income and expenses, this will make it easier to calculate deductions and credits. Review the tax laws and regulations to see if there are any changes that may affect your filing. You should also double-check all calculations to ensure you didn’t miss any eligible deductions or credits. And lastly, file your taxes on time to avoid penalties. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your taxes were well prepared and filed on time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Tax Preparation

When it comes to tax preparation, avoiding common mistakes is key. Making errors on your returns can lead to penalties, audits, or even legal consequences. One common mistake is failing to keep accurate records. Another mistake you will want to avoid is failing to report all sources of income. Additionally, if you incorrectly claim deductions or credits red flags could be raised triggering greater scrutiny. You should also be aware of filing deadlines. Procrastination and late filings can lead to penalties. And the last thing you need to be sure to do is to review your tax return for accuracy before submitting.  If you are mindful of these common mistakes, you are sure to avoid unnecessary complications.

Tools and Resources for Efficient Tax Preparation

When it comes to efficient tax preparation, tools and resources are key – and they can help simplify the process and ensure accurate filings. You can use tax software to help guide you through the process, and tax calculators can also be helpful in estimating your tax liability. The IRS website also provides many resources, including forms, publications, and online tools. An electronic filing system or tax preparation checklist can help you streamline the filing process as well.  Finally, hiring a tax professional will provide you with expert guidance and advice for complex tax situations. When you use tools and resources such as these, you can make tax preparation less stressful.

Hiring the Professionals at Warren Accounting Group for Expert Tax Preparation

When it comes to tax preparation, hiring professionals is key. Warren Accounting Group has the expertise and knowledge to handle complex tax laws and regulations, ensuring that your taxes are prepared accurately. We can help you maximize your deductions and credits, potentially saving you money. We stay up to date on the latest tax laws, so you don’t have to worry about missing any crucial updates. Additionally, we can navigate any potential audits or tax disputes, providing you with peace of mind. By hiring the tax professionals at Warren Accounting Group for individual or business tax preparation, you can save time, reduce stress, and ensure that your taxes are done right.

Navigating a small business can be exhausting. Throw in the bookkeeping and recordkeeping aspects, and a business-owner can be overwhelmed. Most owners are tasked with running their business while also working in their business. However, having an organized financial system is essential to the success and growth of your business. With so many important things owners need to keep track of, Warren Accounting Group is here to offer you some tips to assist you and your business with record keeping.

1. Create a System

You can create a pretty simple record keeping method for your small business by having two binders. One of the binders should include all the documents you are required to have in the state, such as permits and licenses. Items in this binder may include:

• Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization
• Certificates
• Company seal
• Meeting Minutes
• Resolutions

The second binder should keep your daily records and needs housed in order. Items in this binder may include accounting records, insurance policies held by the company, the names and addresses of shareholders, shareholder interest, and state filings which include annual reports.

2. Know the Rules

No matter how you manage your business’s accounting, you need to know what records need to be kept and how long they need to be kept. You need to keep receipts that pertain to your business’s expenses, gross receipts, and purchases to track your business’s debits, credits, and income.

The documents that should be kept for gross receipts include sales receipts, deposit information, invoices, and all forms, such as 1099-MISC. Expense documents include bank account statements, canceled checks or documents proving payment, cash register receipts, credit card receipts and statements, and invoices. You will also need to keep financial statements which will include credit card receipts and statements, bank statements and canceled checks, sales journals, and all invoices.

You will need to keep business documents and receipts for at least three years. This time frame includes the possibility for IRS audits. This is why you should save all the documents and receipts that may be needed. If the IRS suspects that you are underreporting your income, that timeframe increases to six years.

3. Protect Your Bookkeeping Records

In the digital age we live in, having all your documents online is convenient and can save a ton of time. However, online, digital recording keeping comes with the threat of hackers and breaches that can affect your business. We suggest you keep paper copies of your records in files broken down by month and year, but if you choose to save them digitally, do the following:

• Protect your documents with a password and two-factor authentication.
• Have them in more than one location, so if a folder accidentally gets deleted, they are still accessible.

4. Best Practices

The rule of thumb for keeping up with bookkeeping and accounting is to routinely monitor your financials, keep track of all documents and records you will need, and double checking your data to guarantee everything is correct. The bottom line is to know what documents you need and where they are, keep them secure and organized, and stay up to date on government rules and regulations.

5. Hire an Accounting Group to Help with Bookkeeping and Payroll Services

The amount of time you are spending on your bookkeeping could be another reason you should consider outsourcing those needs. Tracking expenses and income, managing tax payments and returns, and staying in compliance while organizing all the paperwork can be very overwhelming. Working with a professional can save you time and give you peace of mind. Your friends at Warren Accounting are here to help!

Working with an accounting service to assist you in your bookkeeping is a great way to ensure your records and documents are kept safe and accurate. Visit https://www.warrenaccountinginc.com/ or give us a call to schedule a meeting today. We would love to help you and your business with your bookkeeping needs. Let us focus on your books, so you can focus on your business!

Do you struggle to find the time and energy to sit down, sift through employee hours, calculate wages, and cut checks? If you answered yes, then outsourcing your payroll might be the perfect choice for you!

Processing payroll is very time-consuming and could feel like a chore on top of the many other tasks you need to complete for your business. Choosing Warren Accounting Group to handle your bookkeeping and payroll services could be the peace of mind you are missing.

1. Save Money + Time

Printing checks, doing calculations, maintaining payroll software, and keeping up with the ever-changing government regulations are time-consuming and costly tasks when you choose to process your payroll in-house. According to a 2023 study, depending on the size of your business, the entire process of completing payroll can take anywhere between 2-5 days each month. When you trust the Warren Accounting Group to handle your bookkeeping and payroll services, you can spend time focused on what’s most important to you – your business.

2. Let the Experts Handle It

Government policies on payroll change all the time – and it’s our job to keep up with these changes! Let us handle your payroll services, and we’ll worry about new rules and regulations for you!

3. Reduce Risks

According to the IRS in 2023, 33% of employers make payroll mistakes each year. When these errors are made, fines and penalties are often required. When you outsource your company’s payroll service you can prevent filing errors and fines associated with inaccurate, missed or late filings.

4. Too Busy and Too Stressed

Many times, the person who is processing the payroll in-house also has countless other jobs and duties to complete – usually within the HR Department. Being in charge of payroll is also a huge responsibility, and the weight of this can lead to unwanted or unneeded stress at work. Outsourcing payroll will allow your HR Department to have more time and energy to focus on employee-related tasks that can help you maintain and retain employees.

5. Better Security and Confidentiality

Processing payroll in-house could put your business at risk of hacking or identity theft. Using a reputable bookkeeping and payroll server that uses state-of-the-art technologies could safeguard your data. When processing payroll, it is imperative that you protect your employees’ salary and personal information. Like it or not, there is really no way to ensure that your internal payroll team is not sharing this information. But when you outsource these tasks, you get peace of mind about security and confidentiality.

If you are looking for a partner for your bookkeeping and payroll services, look no further. With over 100 years of combined experience in payroll and bookkeeping management services, we’re ready to help take something off your plate! If you are wondering how outsourcing payroll works, give us a call and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

 

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