Many taxpayers incur significant investment-related expenses, which might include payment for financial service subscriptions, clerical support and home office maintenance. Under current tax law, these expenses aren’t deductible through 2025 if they’re considered investment expenses to produce income. If they’re considered trade or business expenses, however, they are deductible. This article explains the difference between a trader and an investor. A brief sidebar describes a court case to illuminate that difference.

Despite a seemingly endless period of COVID-19 setbacks, last year the country experienced a large increase in new businesses launched. The latest figures available from the U.S. Census Bureau (June 2020 through June 2021) show that business applications rose 18.6%. Entrepreneurs often don’t know that many of the expenses incurred by start-ups can’t be currently deducted. This article discusses how the handling of initial expenses can affect a new business owner’s federal tax bill.

Married couples may not be able to save as much as they need for retirement when one spouse doesn’t work outside the home. In general, an IRA contribution is allowed only if a taxpayer earns compensation. However, there’s an exception involving a ““spousal” IRA. It allows contributions to be made for nonworking spouses. This article explores the details.

No matter the season, scam artists look for new victims, including those who would pick the pockets of older people in search of money and financial data. This article offers seven ways to help prevent elder financial abuse and fraud.