Tax Planning

QLACs: a smart strategy for retirement income and tax savings
In a move aimed at bolstering retirement security, the U.S. government introduced the Qualifying Longevity Annuity Contract (QLAC) more than a decade ago. This financial tool provides longevity protection with tax advantages, enabling individuals to convert a portion of their Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or qualified retirement account into a guaranteed lifetime income stream. Key […]
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Identity theft and credit card fraud suspects apprehended in California
Two individuals have been apprehended in Southern California on suspicion of credit card theft and identity fraud, with multiple victims affected. The suspects have been identified as Veronika Kushnareva, 32, of San Jose, and Richard Kissinger, 40, of Walnut. According to the Costa Mesa Police Department, both individuals are believed to be responsible for the […]

Young mum loses life savings to phone scam: A cautionary tale for everyone
A young mother has shared her heartbreaking experience after she and her husband lost their entire savings to a sophisticated phone scam. Amelia Mandeville-Marinaro, an author and first-time mum, took to TikTok to warn others about the dangers of telephone phishing scams. While the emotional and financial toll was devastating, she hoped her story would […]

GOP introduces legislation to ease tax burden on seniors
House Republicans have introduced two new bills to help senior citizens save on taxes, following former President Donald Trump’s tax reform goals. If these bills pass, they would make more Social Security income tax-free and offer extra tax deductions for older Americans. Representative Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.) introduced the “Bonus Tax Relief for America’s Seniors Act” […]

Avoiding financial scams: Tax fraud and Zelle scams you need to know
Scammers are constantly finding new ways to exploit individuals, particularly through tax-related fraud and peer-to-peer (P2P) payment app scams like Zelle. Whether posing as IRS agents, using phishing techniques to steal personal data, or tricking victims into sending money through fraudulent transactions, their goal is the same, to gain access to your financial information. Understanding […]

Toll payment text scams surge across America: how to stay protected
Drivers nationwide face an increasing threat from fraudulent text messages masquerading as legitimate toll agencies demanding immediate payment. These scams exploit fear and urgency, pressuring individuals to act quickly before verifying the legitimacy of the claims. As these deceptive tactics become more sophisticated, unsuspecting motorists risk financial loss and potential identity theft if they fall […]

Millions of taxpayers lost out on valuable tax breaks by not filing returns
In the 2022 tax filing season, over nine million taxpayers missed out on valuable tax benefits simply because they didn’t file a return or were unaware of available credits and deductions. These overlooked savings included incentives for energy-efficient home improvements, childcare assistance, retirement contributions, and mortgage interest deductions. Staying informed about these opportunities can make […]

Super Bowl scams: How to spot and avoid common fraud tactic
As Super Bowl LIX approaches, fans eagerly prepare for the excitement of game day, but scammers are just as ready. Cybercriminals use major events like the Super Bowl to trick unsuspecting fans into purchasing fake tickets, falling for phishing scams, or even donating to fraudulent charities. With advanced tactics, including AI-powered phishing and fake travel […]

IRS announces 2025 tax changes: Higher deductions, adjusted brackets, and tax hikes
The IRS has released its annual tax inflation adjustments for the 2025 tax year, bringing changes to tax brackets and deductions. These updates aim to shield taxpayers from ‘bracket creep,’ which occurs when inflation pushes individuals into higher tax brackets without real income growth. Standard deduction increases will benefit many filers, with $15,000 for single […]