As another tax season draws to a close (or a half for those on extension), it’s time to reflect on our experiences and gather insights for future preparation. Whether your tax filing went smoothly or you faced challenges, each season offers valuable lessons and opportunities to refine your strategies… Let’s review some key takeaways from this tax season and discuss how to better prepare for next year.
Reflections on Tax Season:
A common pitfall for many taxpayers is the failure to maintain accurate, easily accessible records throughout the year… Without proper documentation, it’s easy to miss out on necessary amounts and valuable deductions and credits, leading to a higher tax bill. This tax season, we’ve witnessed the significance of year-round bookkeeping and proactive tax planning. The utilization of bookkeeping software like Quicken plays a fundamental role in tax organization. This type of tool facilitates the categorization of transactions, which streamlines the process of identifying tax-relevant activities and minimizes last-minute stress. Electronic record-keeping is not only efficient but also creates a searchable archive of financial data.
Having an annual folder for tax-related documents, such as property tax payments, estimated tax payments, medical expenses, and charitable donations, will benefit you when the filing time comes again, ensuring everything is readily accessible when needed. Additionally, maintaining a multi-year folder of home improvements can help minimize tax gains when it comes time to sell.
Regular communication with and between tax professionals and wealth managers throughout the year can prevent unwelcome surprises during quarterly estimated tax payments, as accountants remain informed of real-time gains and losses.
Strategies for Better Tax Readiness:
Looking ahead, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to ensure you’re prepared for any potential changes in your financial situation. Major life events such as marriage, divorce, loss of a job, or the birth of a child can have significant implications for your taxes, so staying informed and adjusting your strategy accordingly is key to avoiding surprises and penalties.
If you manage your taxes independently, consider these strategies:
1. Stay Informed on Tax Law Changes: Keep yourself updated on changes to tax laws and regulations that may impact your tax situation. Being aware of these changes allows you to make informed decisions and optimize your tax strategy.
2. Monitor Estimated Tax Payments: If you have income sources not subject to withholding, such as self-employment income, monitor and make estimated tax payments throughout the year to avoid underpayment penalties.
3. Maintain Organized Records: Keeping meticulous records of your financial transactions throughout the year is essential. This includes income, expenses, deductions, and credits. While it may seem time-consuming, it’s crucial for accurate tax preparation and maximizing deductions.
While these tasks may seem overwhelming, you don’t have to face them alone. Seeking holistic guidance from tax, legal and investment professionals can provide invaluable support in developing a personalized tax strategy tailored to your financial goals and circumstances.
This is where our role as Daily Money Managers becomes invaluable. We specialize in providing comprehensive daily money management services designed to streamline tax readiness and enhance financial well-being year-round. Our dedicated team can assist with organizing financial documents, maintaining accurate bookkeeping records, and collaborating with professionals such as Wealth Managers and Tax professionals on your behalf. By integrating daily money management into your financial strategy, you can enjoy greater peace of mind and simplicity during tax season and beyond.
Keeping a Proactive Approach:
We encourage you to view tax readiness as an integral part of your overall financial health. Taking a proactive approach to managing your finances can help alleviate stress and ensure you’re prepared for whatever the future may hold. As one of our clients recently shared, having support throughout the tax season can make all the difference in feeling confident and supported in your financial journey:
“I have felt more supported. I also get so much stuff that I don’t understand, and it’s the best luxury to be able to forward it to you and Lexi. Thank you”
By reflecting on this year’s season, implementing forward-thinking strategies, and leveraging the support of a Daily Money Manager, you can easily navigate the upcoming tax season and optimize your financial health year-round.
NEXT STEPS:
Get ahead for the next tax season! We invite you to complete our Needs Assessment and schedule a virtual discovery call today. Let’s put together a readiness plan that works best for you.
Jeremy Zizmor is the founder of Assurance Family Partners, a company whose mission is to assist and empower individuals and families who need help managing their personal day-to-day finances. He is responsible for running all facets of the business.
