THREE REASONS WHY YOUR CHILD SHOULD (OR SHOULDN'T) HAVE LIFE INSURANCE

Should you carry life insurance on your children?

DO YOU NEED TO TAKE AN RMD? APRIL 1 MIGHT BE AN IMPORTANT DATE FOR YOU

April 1 is the last day you can take your required minimum distribution (RMD) for 2017 from your traditional IRAs. If you reached age 70½ last year, this is a big deal.

PUTTING YOUR TAX REFUND INTO A RETIREMENT ACCOUNT?

Considering depositing your tax refund into your retirement account? Make sure no snafus happen along the way.

IF YOU DONATED MONEY TO CHARITY, YOU'LL NEED THESE RECORDS

If you plan on deducting charitable contributions on your 2017 tax return, you'll need to have certain records. Gifts by check or credit/debit card must have written documentation showing the contribution amount and date, as well as the name of the organization you gave to. If the contribution is more than $250, you'll also need a written acknowledgement from the charity created at the time you made the donation.

If you receive something in return for donating, you can deduct only the difference between the contribution amount and the value of the benefit you received in return. Give us a call  at (518) 798-3330 if you have questions about deducting your charitable contributions.

GONE: UNREIMBURSED EXPENSES DEDUCTION FOR EMPLOYEES

If you're an employee who has deducted unreimbursed job expenses in the past, know that this deduction is now no longer available under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. However, employers can consider reimbursing employees directly for the cost of expenses like tools, uniforms, travel or continuing education. Employers can still deduct those expenses on their business returns. Ask your employer about reimbursement.

ARE YOU A CAREGIVER? THESE TAX BREAKS MAY BE HELPFUL

Those who care for people who are sick, elderly or disabled are often up against a lot of challenges. Fortunately, there may be a handful of tax breaks that can help. They include the medical expense deduction, the Child and Dependent Care Credit, and the new family credit in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Give us a call at (518) 798-3330 if you have questions.

MORE TAX BREAKS AVAILABLE FOR 2017 TAX RETURNS

Several tax breaks were revived for use in 2017 tax filing by last month's federal budget bill. Among them are four you may be able to take advantage of: the tuition and fees deduction, the mortgage insurance deduction, the mortgage debt forgiveness exclusion and the energy-efficient home improvement credit. Give us a call at (518) 798-3330 if these tax breaks should be considered for your 2017 tax return.