Sciarabba Walker Blog
The information in these blog posts is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for accounting, tax, or financial advice from a professional accountant. While we use reasonable efforts to furnish accurate and up-to-date information, we do not warrant that any information contained in or made available through this blog is current or error free. No part of this communication is intended to be used for the purpose of avoiding penalties under U.S. federal tax law.
Watch out for potential tax pitfalls of donating real estate to charity
Charitable giving allows you to help an organization you care about and, in most cases, enjoy a valuable income tax deduction. If you are considering a large gift, a non-cash donation such as appreciated real estate can provide additional benefits. For example, if...
How to Obtain an ITIN
In the previous post we discussed what an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is and what it is used for. In this post we'll discuss the process of applying for an ITIN. To obtain an ITIN you must file Form W-7: Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer...
Yes, you can undo a Roth IRA conversion
Converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA can provide tax-free growth and the ability to withdraw funds tax-free in retirement. But what if you convert a traditional IRA — subject to income taxes on all earnings and deductible contributions—and then discover that you...
What Is an ITIN?
Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) are tax processing numbers issued by the IRS. They are available for taxpayers who need an identifying number but are not eligible to obtain a Social Security Number. Whether they are required to be provided to third...
Put your audit in reverse to save sales and use tax
It’s a safe bet that state tax authorities will let you know if you haven’t paid enough sales and use taxes, but what are the odds that you’ll be notified if you’ve paid too much? The chances are slim—so slim that many businesses use reverse audits to find...
Alert: Possible Denial or Revocation of Passport for Unpaid Taxes
If you have a “seriously delinquent tax debt,” the IRS is now authorized to notify the State Department of such outstanding debt. In turn, the State Department may deny your request for a passport or revoke your current passport. If you are overseas when your passport...
Will Congress revive expired tax breaks?
Most of the talk about possible tax legislation this year has focused on either wide-sweeping tax reform or taxes that are part of the Affordable Care Act. But there are a few other potential tax developments for individuals to keep an eye on. Back in December of...
A refresher on the ACA’s tax penalty on individuals without health insurance
Now that Affordable Care Act (ACA) repeal and replacement efforts appear to have collapsed, at least for the time being, it’s a good time for a refresher on the tax penalty the ACA imposes on individuals who fail to have “minimum essential” health insurance coverage...
Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program
This final installment of this blog series will discuss taxpayers who willfully have not disclosed foreign accounts or paid taxes. Taxpayers who want assurance that they will not be subject to criminal liability and/or substantial monetary penalties should consider...
Three midyear tax planning strategies for individuals
In the quest to reduce your tax bill, year-end planning can only go so far. Tax-saving strategies take time to implement, so review your options now. Here are three strategies that can be more effective if you begin executing them midyear: 1. Consider your bracket The...