MKR Blog
In the midst of identity scams and credit card hacking, the IRS has warned against another scam, this time targeted at businesses and employers. There is a growing W-2 email scam threatening sensitive tax information and the IRS wants to alert payroll and human...
The latter part of 2017 has been filled with discussions and votes regarding new tax legislation. But, with nothing official in the books yet, taxpayers would be wise to focus their year-end tax planning around the current laws, since the proposed legislation may not...
Although it came a few days later than expected, the Republican Party has finally released its most recent version of their tax bill. Below are 12 major changes that would affect most taxpayers: Lowering the number of income tax brackets Currently, our tax code has...
With their first plan shot down in Congress, the GOP has released another, broader tax framework as the Trump Administration attempts to shift the tax code. This new plan has many elements that Congress will need to hash out before anything is signed into law, but...
Although Equifax has yet to reveal specifics about the individuals who were affected by their data breach, as many as 143 million Americans may have been impacted. With that in mind, anyone with credit should consider taking measures to protect their identity and...
While a majority of the population is covered by Social Security (SS) to some degree, many do not fully understand the program, resulting in frustration and confusion when it comes time to receive benefits. In an effort to curb miscommunication or misgivings, the...
When disasters strike the American people, it can be a beautiful thing to witness the country coming together to support and rally around those affected. Unfortunately though, there are many who choose to take advantage during times of need. The IRS issued a recent...
Considering joining the “startup” world but unsure how to find funding? Whether you’re simply in the research phase or you’ve developed a full blown business plan and have some capital, below are the most common ways new startups, who aren’t yet ready for venture...
From Millennials who seem to never save for retirement to Boomers who are now wondering if what they’ve saved will be enough, retirement seems to be a never ending topic of worry and anxiety for most. Below are five of the top misconceptions regarding retirement and...
Although the Indiana state legislative session began back in January and concluded in late April, there were many changes made that have just recently taken effect, namely, 45 different taxes and fees that have either been increased or newly imposed. One increase that...
The Social Security Administration sends survivor benefits to about 6 million Americans every month, directed to widows, widowers, and children who have experienced the loss of someone who has paid into the social security program. Read on to find out who is eligible...
Enrolling in a 529 plan is the first step toward conscious planning for your child’s college education, but don’t stop there. With college costs rising steadily — over 168 percent over the last 20 years, according to U.S. News — it’s important to maximize the value of...
Depending on where you are in life, trying to anticipate your financial needs in retirement and determining how exactly to get to that point could feel like a daunting task, or even a task that doesn’t need tackling yet. In fact, according to a study completed by The...
As a small business owner, the more you can stay organized, improve daily operations, control business expenses, and generally make life as an entrepreneur run a little more smoothly, the more proficient and prolific your business will become. Below are some top-rated...
Before 1997, once a homeowner reached the age of 55, they had the one-time option of excluding up to $125,000 of gain on the sale of their primary residence. Today any homeowner, regardless of age, has the option to exclude up to $250,000 of gain ($500,000 for married...
Most small businesses have limited financial resources, so managing funds wisely and intentionally is crucial to the success of the business. Below are ways in which your small business may be throwing away money that could be needed elsewhere. Having Overheads that...
“Set it and forget it” is a common approach when it comes to a workplace 401(k), yet it likely will play a substantial role in the financial security of your future. Consistently contributing to your 401(k), and learning how to manage it, will set you on the course to...
The House of Representatives recently voted to approve the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement or SECURE Act, which would expand access to retirement savings programs for part-time workers and people employed by small business owners. If the SECURE...
According to a 2017 study from Career Builder, nearly 78% percent of people live paycheck to paycheck, with little to no money left over after financial obligations are paid. This means that nearly 8 out of 10 workers may not be able to handle even a $500 emergency....
Spring cleaning isn’t just for closets, windows, and garages. After tax season is a great time to take a look at your personal finances and spending habits, and make adjustments where needed. Organize Spending Habits Take stock of your spending routines and target...