Date: November 2, 2024
As we approach the end of 2024, individuals are turning their focus to year-end tax planning.
Good planning can help reduce tax bills and make filing simpler. With a few strategic Tax Planning Tips, you can make the most of deductions and tax benefits. Here are seven simple tips to consider before December 31.
1.Maximize Retirement Contributions: Key Tax Planning Tip
One of the most effective Tax Planning Tips is to maximize contributions to retirement accounts. This includes 401(k), IRA (Individual Retirement Account), and Roth IRA. For a 401(k), individuals under 50 can contribute up to $22,500 in 2024. Those 50 and older can contribute an extra $7,500 as a catch-up contribution.
An IRA offers similar tax benefits, with a limit of $6,500 for those under 50 and $7,500 for those 50 and older. Every dollar you contribute to these accounts can reduce your taxable income. This tax planning strategy not only saves on taxes but also builds retirement savings.
2.Review Capital Gains and Losses for Effective Tax Planning
One important Tax Planning Tip for the end of the year is to review your investments. If you have gains from investments, consider selling some that have losses. This strategy, called tax-loss harvesting, allows you to offset gains with losses, lowering your taxable income.
For example, if you have a $5,000 gain on one stock but a $3,000 loss on another, selling the stock with the loss can reduce your gain to $2,000. This minimizes your capital gains tax, making it a valuable part of any tax planning strategy.
3.Make Charitable Donations to Benefit from Tax Deductions
Charitable donations are a powerful Tax Planning Tip. Donating cash, stocks, or other assets to qualified charities provides a deduction, which can lower your taxable income. Remember to document your donations carefully since the IRS requires proof, like a receipt, for any charitable deduction.
If you itemize deductions, you can deduct donations up to 60% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) for cash donations. Even if you don’t itemize, you may still qualify for a deduction of up to $300 ($600 for married couples filing jointly). Make sure to complete all donations before December 31 to take advantage of this tax planning benefit.
4.Consider Deferring Income: A Smart Year-End Tax Planning Tip
Deferring income is another valuable Tax Planning Tip. This can be beneficial if you expect to be in a lower tax bracket next year. For example, if you’re self-employed or have control over your salary, consider delaying some payments until January.
Employees can also check with their employer about deferring end-of-year bonuses to the following year. This can push some income into the next tax year, reducing your tax liability for 2024—a smart tax planning strategy.
5.Prepay Deductible Expenses for Immediate Tax Savings
Certain expenses, such as medical expenses, property taxes, mortgage interest, and student loan interest, are tax-deductible only if paid by the end of the tax year. Prepaying deductible expenses can help you reach the itemized deduction threshold, making this a valuable Tax Planning Tip.
For instance, if you pay your January mortgage payment in December, you might be able to deduct that interest for this tax year. This tax planning strategy increases deductions and lowers taxable income, offering immediate tax savings.
6.Check for Available Tax Credits: Essential Tax Planning for 2024
Tax credits are powerful tools for reducing taxes since they directly lower the tax you owe. Some common credits include:
Child Tax Credit: For each qualifying child, you could receive up to $2,000.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): This credit benefits low to moderate-income earners and can be worth up to $7,430 depending on income and family size.
Education Credits: The American Opportunity Tax Credit and Lifetime Learning Credit provide tax relief for education expenses.
This Tax Planning Tip can make a big difference in your final tax bill. Be sure to check your eligibility for these credits as part of your year-end tax planning.
7.Utilize Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): A Valuable Tax Planning Tool
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are another excellent Tax Planning Tip. Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. For 2024, individuals can contribute up to $3,850, while families can contribute up to $7,750. Those 55 and older can add an extra $1,000 as a catch-up contribution.
If you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), contributing to an HSA can reduce your taxable income while allowing you to save for future healthcare expenses. This tax planning strategy allows funds to roll over each year, so you won’t lose the money if you don’t spend it in 2024.
Bonus Tip: Organize and Save Receipts for Smooth Tax Filing
While not directly reducing taxes, organizing all receipts, invoices, and documentation related to deductions and credits is essential for successful tax filing. This Tax Planning Tip is especially useful if you itemize deductions or plan to claim credits, making it easier when it’s time to file and reducing the chance of errors.
Final Thoughts on Tax Planning Tips for 2024
Year-end tax planning doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these Tax Planning Tips, you can potentially save on your 2024 tax bill. Each of these strategies can help reduce taxable income, maximize deductions, and keep more money in your pocket. Make sure to review your finances before December 31, and consult a tax professional if you need guidance on implementing these tips effectively.