http://www.bankrate.com/default.aspx?pid=p:br3 Advice to keep you on track for the big day in April -- and throughout the year en-us Copyright 2009, Bankrate Inc. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:33:42 GMT webmaster@bankrate.com (webmaster) http://www.bankrate.com/Images/logos/bankratelogo.gif http://www.bankrate.com/default.aspx?pid=p:br3 118 22 60 Opening an overseas account isn't for everyone. Here are some of the reasons to consider it. Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/should-you-go-offshore.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/should-you-go-offshore.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you have an asset that will increase significantly in value, be tax-smart and put it into a trust. Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/trusts-can-provide-for-tax-efficient-estate-planning.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/trusts-can-provide-for-tax-efficient-estate-planning.aspx?pid=p:br3 No Swiss account? These tax shelters are OK by the IRS and accessible to most taxpayers. Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/thank-heaven-for-legal-tax-havens-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/thank-heaven-for-legal-tax-havens-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 You need a pro when designing an estate plan. But there are some aspects you can take on yourself. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/estate-planning-diy-or-pro-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/estate-planning-diy-or-pro-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 The estate tax is scheduled to die on Jan. 1, 2010, but don't go ordering funeral flowers just yet. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/r-i-p-estate-tax-maybe-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/r-i-p-estate-tax-maybe-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Unsure what to do about taxes and shrinking investments? You can still plan your estate. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/estate-planning-in-uneasy-times-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/estate-planning-in-uneasy-times-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Victims of a presidentially declared disaster can use their tax filing to obtain much-needed cash. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/disaster-relief-from-the-irs-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/disaster-relief-from-the-irs-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 The financial crisis has boosted the appeal of tax-favored bonds. But safety comes at a price. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/tax-favored-bonds-get-second-look-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/tax-favored-bonds-get-second-look-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Many states have their own estate tax. Click on this map to find out if your state is one of them. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/check-estate-taxes-in-your-state.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/check-estate-taxes-in-your-state.aspx?pid=p:br3 Keep this chart handy to reference 2009 and 2010 annual estate-planning limits. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/annual-estate-planning-limits.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/annual-estate-planning-limits.aspx?pid=p:br3 Estate planning is not just for the wealthy. Use our guide to help design a plan to fit your needs. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/estate-planning-for-everyone.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/estate-planning-for-everyone.aspx?pid=p:br3 Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. Everyone should have these basic documents. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/video-the-basics-of-estate-planning.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/video-the-basics-of-estate-planning.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you paid someone to care for a dependent so you could work, a special tax credit could cut your IRS bill. Sun, 11 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/irs-helps-with-the-kids-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/irs-helps-with-the-kids-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you need to take money from your IRA, here's when Uncle Sam says it won't cost you extra. Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/when-it-s-ok-to-tap-your-ira-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/when-it-s-ok-to-tap-your-ira-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you must file estimated taxes throughout the year, your third voucher of 2009 is due Sept. 15. Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/paying-quarterly-estimated-taxes-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/paying-quarterly-estimated-taxes-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Here are five tips to avoid legal, tax and financial problems that trip up new entrepreneurs. Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/5-tips-for-small-business-success-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/5-tips-for-small-business-success-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Declining business revenue could make it hard to pay the IRS in April. Here's how to get cash. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/6-ways-to-fund-irs-payments.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/6-ways-to-fund-irs-payments.aspx?pid=p:br3 Tax season is over for most, but tax scam season never ends. Watch out for this "dirty dozen." Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/watch-out-for-the-dirty-dozen-tax-scams-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/watch-out-for-the-dirty-dozen-tax-scams-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 You got a check that's less, or more, than you expected. Find out why and what to do about it. Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/what-if-your-tax-refund-is-wrong-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/what-if-your-tax-refund-is-wrong-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Were all those tax receipts you collected worthless because you couldn't meet certain itemizing thresholds? Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:10:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/bunching-itemized-deductions.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/bunching-itemized-deductions.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you haven't owned a home in three years, Uncle Sam has a deal for you. But be careful. Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/first-home-new-tax-break-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/first-home-new-tax-break-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you used these government savings bonds to pay college costs, the interest is tax-free. Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/cashing-savings-bonds-can-yield-tax-break-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/cashing-savings-bonds-can-yield-tax-break-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Is a traditional IRA the best tax savings move? It depends on your financial and tax situation. Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/traditional-iras-work-fine-for-some-filers-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/traditional-iras-work-fine-for-some-filers-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Retirement plans get extra attention during tax season. Here's a look at Roth IRA accounts. Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/roth-ira-rules8-121119.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/roth-ira-rules8-121119.aspx?pid=p:br3 Here's how the chip off the old block can help you chip away at your tax bill. Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/tax-joys-of-parenthood-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/tax-joys-of-parenthood-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 The tax deadline looms. If you're confused about filing, the IRS' rules are clear. Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:03:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/meeting-your-tax-filing-deadlines-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/meeting-your-tax-filing-deadlines-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Atypical charitable deductions can help your favorite charity and help to cut your tax bill. Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/cash-in-on-uncommon-charitable-tax-breaks-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/cash-in-on-uncommon-charitable-tax-breaks-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Time's running out to file your 1040, but our 7-day, hour-a-day plan will help get your taxes done. Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/7-day-tax-filing-plan-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/7-day-tax-filing-plan-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 The IRS wants you to get your taxes done, no matter who helps you. Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/taxes-choosing-a-tax-professional.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/taxes-choosing-a-tax-professional.aspx?pid=p:br3 Shorten Uncle Sam's global tax reach by claiming the foreign income exclusion. Here are some rules. Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/taxpayers-abroad-can-limit-u-s-taxes-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/taxpayers-abroad-can-limit-u-s-taxes-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Have a bet on the college basketball tournament? Uncle Sam expects you to share your winnings. Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/gambling-winnings-are-taxable-income8-120761-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/gambling-winnings-are-taxable-income8-120761-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Several home-related laws have been added to the tax code in recent years. How could they affect you? Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:02:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/7-housing-tax-laws-you-don-t-want-to-miss-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/7-housing-tax-laws-you-don-t-want-to-miss-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Sold an investment? The IRS wants a Schedule D. The form is difficult, but it's worth the savings. Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/reporting-your-capital-gains-or-losses-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/reporting-your-capital-gains-or-losses-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you just can't finish your taxes by April 15, you can get six more months by just asking. Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/need-more-time-to-file-just-ask-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/need-more-time-to-file-just-ask-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Changed jobs and took your company retirement plan with you? We explain how to report it to the IRS. Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/reporting-ira-rollovers-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/reporting-ira-rollovers-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Don't send your return until you complete this simple last-minute review. Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/complete-our-10-point-tax-return-checklist-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/complete-our-10-point-tax-return-checklist-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Giving to your favorite charity can pay off at tax time as long as you know and follow IRS rules. Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/maximizing-charitable-donations-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/maximizing-charitable-donations-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 No more excuses. You must send something to the IRS by the deadline or face the consequences. Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/you-must-file-something-here-s-how-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/you-must-file-something-here-s-how-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Can't come up with the money to pay your tax bill? The IRS offers several different ways to pay. Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/big-tax-bill-irs-offers-payment-options-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/big-tax-bill-irs-offers-payment-options-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Changes in young investors' income may mean higher taxes, and may also cost parents. Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/irs-rules-for-child-s-investment-income.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/irs-rules-for-child-s-investment-income.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you're in the service, your taxes get special treatment, especially if you're in a combat zone. Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/filing-guidelines-for-military-personnel-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/filing-guidelines-for-military-personnel-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 When you're looking for work, don't forget about the tax breaks Uncle Sam provides for your job search. Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/writing-off-job-hunting-costs-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/writing-off-job-hunting-costs-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 For lower income filers, money put away for your retirement could cut today's tax bill. Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/tax-credit-for-savings-made-for-retirement-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/tax-credit-for-savings-made-for-retirement-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Tallying up all your expenses can help you cut your tax bill if you claim every allowed deduction. Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/expenses-cut-tax-bill-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/expenses-cut-tax-bill-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Lower earning rates ease the pain of sharing your investment income with the IRS. Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/reporting-your-investment-earnings-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/reporting-your-investment-earnings-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you changed jobs last year, you may have had too much Social Security tax withheld. Here's how to get it back. Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/recovering-excess-fica-payments.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/recovering-excess-fica-payments.aspx?pid=p:br3 With a flexible spending account you, not the IRS, will have extra money to pay medical costs. Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/fsas-save-money-cut-taxes-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/fsas-save-money-cut-taxes-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Hear the one about the $100,000 pool write-off? Read the ways taxpayers try to finagle tax breaks. Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:03:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/9-wackiest-tax-deductions-for-2009-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/9-wackiest-tax-deductions-for-2009-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Time's running out to cut your self-employment tax bill. These often-overlooked tax breaks should help. Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/12-small-biz-deductions-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/12-small-biz-deductions-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you paid foreign taxes, you have a choice as how to use them to cut your U.S. tax bill. Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/putting-foreign-taxes-to-domestic-use.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/putting-foreign-taxes-to-domestic-use.aspx?pid=p:br3