There’s no need to feel overwhelmed by tax season. In fact, when it comes to filing, there may be some great money-savers that aren’t on your radar but should be. Understanding what a tax deduction is and how it can lower your tax bill or increase your return can be the “make-or-break” difference to putting more green back in your pocket.
Suffolk Federal, Suffolk County’s leading financial institution, is reminding people that taxable income can be lowered by factoring in smart deductions. When the amount of the tax deduction is subtracted from one’s income, the overall taxable income is reduced, equating to a lower tax bill.
“Our goal is to educate our members and ensure they have the tools to deal with what many consider an otherwise complicated subject,” said Ralph D. Spencer, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of Suffolk Federal. “We have found that many of our members might not be aware or may overlook itemized deductions, not understanding exactly how they can be utilized.”
With a flat, standard deduction, the amount is determined based on filing status. Meanwhile, with an itemized deduction, taxable income is based on any of hundreds of available deductions. Here are some deductions you might not know exist for the 2019 tax year:
- Mortgage Interest: You are paying the interest so why not get the deduction? The rule here is if you obtained a mortgage prior to 12/15/2017, you can deduct the interest on a mortgage up to $1 million and if you obtained your mortgage after that date, you can deduct the interest on a mortgage up to $750,000.
- Student Loan Interest: Up to $2,500 can be deducted from your taxable income if interest was paid on student loans last year. According to TurboTax®, a student who’s not claimed as a dependent can qualify to deduct up to $2,500 of student loan interested paid by you or someone else.
- Charitable Contributions or Gifts: Whether it’s cash or property through donations or fundraisers, save the receipts for possible deductions and auditing.
- Medical Expenses: Qualified, unreimbursed medical expenses totaling over 7.5% of your adjusted gross income for the tax year can be deducted.
- Home Office Deduction: If you are self-employed and have a dedicated office in your home where you conduct your business, then you may be eligible for a home office deduction.
- Residential Energy Credits: Here is a great incentive to “Go Green.” Different qualified improvements you make, focused on creating an energy-efficient home, can carry various opportunities to earn the tax credits.
- Deduction of Medicare Premiums for those Self Employed: There is a deduction for the entrepreneur who qualifies for Medicare Part B and D premiums including the cost of a supplemental Medicare policy or Medicare Advantage. Check with your tax advisor to determine how this is calculated.
These are just a handful of deductions that can be often overlooked. Preparing your taxes and getting organized can be an overwhelming process if you are doing it alone. If you are confused and need assistance or more guidance on deductions and other tax-related questions, Suffolk Federal members are invited to receive help from the Credit Union’s resident tax specialist. Appointments can be scheduled by calling Adele Geller of RG Brenner and located at Suffolk Federal’s Medford Branch, 3681 Horseblock Road in Medford, at 631.924.8000 x8399 or email taxprep@suffolkfcu.org. All members will also be eligible to receive $50 cash per referral if they refer a family member, friend or colleague. Terms and conditions apply.
