Taxes are what you pay to the federal, state and local governments where you live. Different types of taxes include income taxes, capital gains tax, sales tax, estate tax and real estate taxes such as property tax. Learn how to bequest property and do transactions in a way that will help you pay less taxes and follow the law.
How to Calculate Profits and Taxes on a Home Sale
How to calculate profits and taxes on a home sale. This reader wants to know how to determine profits, costs and taxes on a home sale. Q: I have a question about selling your home and trying to determine the cost basis for tax purposes. Is the profit the difference between the sale price of [...]
Is Mortgage Interest Deductible in 2020?
Is mortgage interest deductible in 2020? These homeowners have always deducted mortgage interest but their tax software is rejecting the entry this year. Q: Is mortgage interest still deductible on our federal income taxes? Is there something new that I am not aware of? Is there some reason to not have a mortgage that is [...]
Do I Have to Pay Tax on Property Sold Overseas?
Do I have to pay tax on property sold overseas? This reader wants to use funds from the property sale to invest in real estate in California. Q: I own a piece of real estate overseas and I’ve owned it for quite some time, even before I became a U.S. citizen. I would like to [...]
Coronavirus Relief: CARES Act 2020
Coronavirus relief: CARES Act 2020. How the $2 trillion coronavirus relief bill will help both families and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of Coronavirus/COVID-19 cases in the U.S. continues to spike as more tests become available and states improve reporting procedures. In our coverage of the Coronavirus, we’ve watched the cases skyrocket from [...]
How Much Do I Have to Pay in Real Estate Taxes?
How much do I have to pay in real estate taxes? The answer can be found in the purchase contract that was signed at closing. Q: I am trying to find out about the real estate taxes on the home I bought just about two years ago. What I need to know is how much [...]
What Is a Good Salary? The Answer Will Surprise You
What is a good salary? The answer is surprising. The quality of life you can have on a certain salary varies drastically from city to city. A recent study by GOBankingRates looked at just how far a $100,000 annual salary goes in major cities across the country. Basic expenses, such as housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, [...]
What Happens to Your Taxes When You Rent-to-Own to a Family Member?
What happens to your taxes when you let a family member rent-to-own your property? The IRS has specific definitions to help, but they can get complicated. Q: I rented our old house to my daughter and her spouse as a rent-to-own property. I told them when they paid enough money I would sign the property [...]
What Happens To Your Taxes When You Sell An Inherited Home?
What happens to your taxes when you sell an inherited home? Depending on the state you live in, you may not have to worry. Q: My dad passed away awhile ago. He owned his home and had no mortgage. We recently sold his home for $300,000. How do I figure how much I will have [...]
Thinking About Prepaying Your Mortgage Taxes? Think Again.
If you’re thinking about prepaying your mortgage loan taxes, you should think again. This move can do more harm than good. Q: If my tax payment is included in my mortgage payment, am I allowed to go to the local tax office and prepay the taxes before the due date in order to reduce my [...]
What’s the Best Way to Transfer a Home Title to a Family Member Who’s Been Living in the Home?
What’s the best way to transfer a home title to a family member who’s been living in the home? Hint: A quitclaim deed may not be sufficient enough. Q: Hi Ilyce and Sam! I have been a weekly reader and sometimes a daily reader of your column ever since you took over Robert Bruss's column [...]