Educational Tax Guides · Updated April 2026
Free Tax Guides for 2026
IRS-verified explanations of refund timing, deductions, OBBBA tax changes, filing requirements, self-employment tax, EITC, Child Tax Credit, and state refund processing, written for real people, not tax professionals.
What You'll Find Here
National Tax Tools guides cover the most important tax topics for freelancers, independent contractors, and small business owners. Every guide is based on current IRS publications, reviewed by Nausheen Shahid, and updated for Tax Year 2026. Content is structured, accurate, and written to help you understand your actual tax obligations. For full team credentials, see our About page.
Key Takeaways
- Self-employed workers owe 15.3% self-employment tax on net earnings in addition to regular income tax.
- Quarterly estimated tax payments are due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15.
- You can deduct 50% of self-employment tax from your adjusted gross income.
- The IRS safe harbor rule lets you avoid underpayment penalties by paying 100% of last year's tax liability (110% if AGI exceeded $150,000).
- S-Corp election can significantly reduce SE tax once net profit exceeds roughly $40,000–$50,000 annually.
All Guides & Tools
Core Guide · Family & Investment · IRC §1(g) · Form 8615 · Parent's Rate · 2025 + 2026
Kiddie Tax Guide: Form 8615, the $2,700 Threshold, and the Parent's Rate
Complete reference to the kiddie tax: the $2,700 unearned-income threshold, the two-tier floor, the age tests through age 23, what counts as unearned income, which parent's rate is used, the Form 8615 computation, the Form 8814 parent election, and how a child's capital gains and the 3.8% NIIT interact with it.
Read guide →Core Guide · Investment & Income · IRC §1411 · Form 8960 · 3.8% NIIT · 2025 + 2026
Net Investment Income Tax Guide: The 3.8% NIIT, Form 8960, MAGI Thresholds
Complete reference to the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax: the never-indexed $250,000 / $125,000 / $200,000 MAGI thresholds, the lesser-of rule, what counts as net investment income, the qualified-plan and §121 home-sale exclusions, allocable investment expenses, the Form 8960 walkthrough, and how the 3.8% differs from the 0.9% Additional Medicare Tax.
Read guide →Core Guide · Payroll & Income · IRC §3101(b)(2) · Form 8959 · 0.9% Surtax · 2025 + 2026
Additional Medicare Tax Guide: The 0.9% Surtax, Form 8959, Thresholds, Withholding
Complete reference to the 0.9% Additional Medicare Tax: the never-indexed $250,000 / $125,000 / $200,000 thresholds, the employer $200,000 withholding rule, the married-couple underwithholding trap, the wage-reduced self-employment threshold, RRTA compensation, the Form 8959 walkthrough, and how the 0.9% differs from the 3.8% NIIT.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRC §408(p) · Employer Match · SECURE 2.0 · 2025 + 2026
SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits Guide 2026: IRC §408(p), Employer Match, Catch-Up, SECURE 2.0
Complete reference to the SIMPLE IRA: the 2026 and 2025 employee deferral limits, the $18,100 SECURE 2.0 small-employer limit, the mandatory 3% match versus 2% nonelective employer contribution, the age catch-ups, the 2-year/25% rule, Roth SIMPLE deferrals, eligibility and setup, and SIMPLE versus SEP versus 401(k).
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRC §408(d)(2) Pro-Rata · Form 8606 · 2025 + 2026
Backdoor Roth IRA Guide 2026: Form 8606, the Pro-Rata Rule, and the 5-Year Clocks
Complete reference to the backdoor Roth IRA: the two-step process, the 2026 Roth income limits, the pro-rata rule of IRC §408(d), the 401(k) rollover that clears it, the Form 8606 line-by-line walkthrough, the two five-year clocks, the mega backdoor Roth, and the mistakes that create surprise tax bills.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRC §219 · Active Participant · Form 8606 · 2025 + 2026
Traditional IRA Deduction Guide 2026: IRC §219, Active-Participant Phase-Out, Form 8606
Complete reference to deducting a traditional IRA contribution under IRC §219: the 2026 and 2025 limits, the active-participant rule, the section 219(g) MAGI phase-out ranges, how the reduced deduction is calculated, deductible versus nondeductible contributions and Form 8606, the spousal IRA rule, and traditional versus Roth.
Read guide →Core Guide · Capital Gains · IRC §1(h) · 0/15/20% · QDCGT Worksheet · 3.8% NIIT · 2025 + 2026
Qualified Dividends and Capital Gains Tax Worksheet Guide 2026: 0/15/20% Rates, Income Stacking, Line by Line
How the IRS Qualified Dividends and Capital Gain Tax Worksheet works: the 0 percent, 15 percent, and 20 percent long-term rates, how ordinary income stacks underneath your gains to decide the rate, the 2026 and 2025 breakpoints by filing status, the 3.8 percent net investment income tax, and a line-by-line walkthrough.
Read guide →Core Guide · Capital Gains · IRC §1091 · 30-Day Rule · Form 8949 · 2025 + 2026
Wash Sale Rule Guide 2026: The 30-Day Rule, IRC §1091, Disallowed Losses and Basis
Complete reference to the wash sale rule under IRC §1091: the 61-day window, what counts as substantially identical, how a disallowed loss is added to the replacement shares' basis, the IRA and spouse traps that make the loss permanent, the cryptocurrency carve-out, and Form 8949 code W reporting.
Read guide →Core Guide · Capital Gains · IRC §1202 · OBBBA Tiered Rules · Form 8949 Code Q · 2025 + 2026
QSBS Exclusion Guide 2026: IRC §1202, the OBBBA Tiered Rules, $15M Cap and the 28% / AMT Traps
Complete reference to the qualified small business stock exclusion under IRC §1202: the OBBBA tiered 50/75/100% rules for stock acquired after July 4, 2025, the legacy 100% rule, the greater-of $15M-or-10x-basis per-issuer cap, the C-corp and active-business qualification tests, the 28% rate and 7% AMT preference on partial exclusions, the §1045 rollover, cap stacking, and state conformity.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRC §401(a)(9) · SECURE 2.0 · 2025 + 2026
Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) Guide 2026: Uniform Lifetime Table, SECURE 2.0
Complete authority on required minimum distributions under IRC §401(a)(9): when RMDs start at age 73 or 75 under SECURE 2.0, how to use the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table, which accounts count, the Roth exemption, the 25 percent missed-RMD penalty, qualified charitable distributions, and inherited-account rules.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · SECURE Act 10-Year Rule · Single Life Table · 2025 + 2026
Inherited IRA RMD Guide 2026: 10-Year Rule, Single Life Table, EDBs
The complete inherited IRA RMD reference: the SECURE Act 10-year rule, when annual RMDs apply in years 1-9, the five eligible designated beneficiary categories, the IRS Single Life Expectancy Table and subtract-one method, the Notice 2024-35 penalty waiver, surviving-spouse options, inherited Roth treatment, and the 25 percent missed-RMD penalty.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRC §72(t) · Form 5329 · 2025 + 2026
Early Withdrawal Penalty Guide 2026: 401(k) & IRA 10% Tax, §72(t) Exceptions
The complete IRC §72(t) reference: the 10 percent penalty on a 401(k), 403(b), or IRA distribution before age 59½, every exception that waives it (the rule of 55, SEPP, disability, first home, medical), the SIMPLE IRA 25 percent rule, the Roth ordering rules, and how to report it on Form 5329.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · Simplified Method · IRS Pub 575 · Form 1099-R · 2025 + 2026
Pension & Annuity Income Tax Guide 2026: Simplified Method, General Rule, 1099-R
How pension and annuity income is taxed: fully versus partly taxable payments, the IRS Simplified Method and General Rule, your cost in the plan (box 9b), recovering basis tax-free, reading Form 1099-R, and setting withholding with Form W-4P.
Read guide →Core Guide · Self-Employment
Self-Employment Tax: The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about the 15.3% self-employment tax, how it's calculated, the 92.35% rule, the SE deduction, quarterly payments, and strategies to reduce your bill.
Read guide →Core Guide · Entity Planning
LLC vs S-Corp: When the Election Makes Sense
How S-Corp election reduces SE tax by limiting FICA to your reasonable salary, what compliance costs are involved, and the financial breakeven calculation for 2026.
Read guide →Core Guide · S-Corp · Audit Defense
Reasonable Salary for S-Corp Owners: The IRS Nine-Factor Test
How the IRS determines whether an S-Corp owner's salary is reasonable, why the 60/40 rule is a myth, what Watson v. Commissioner means for your audit risk, and the four-step documentation framework that protects you.
Read guide →Core Guide · Payroll · Supplemental Wages · 2026
Bonus Tax Withholding Guide 2026: Flat Rate vs Aggregate Method
Why your bonus feels like it lost 40 percent. How the 22 percent flat rate, the aggregate method, FICA caps, Additional Medicare, and state supplemental rates interact. Includes year-end planning moves (401(k) bonus deferral, Q4 estimated payment) that actually reduce what you pay.
Read guide →Core Guide · Family · CDCTC vs DCFSA · 2026
Dependent Care FSA vs Child Care Tax Credit 2026: Which Saves More?
Full decision framework for the Dependent Care FSA ($7,500 new OBBBA limit) versus the Child and Dependent Care Credit (50/35/20 percent tiers). Side-by-side savings by income band, the IRC §21(c) no-double-dip rule, and the employer plan-amendment checklist.
Read guide →Core Guide · IRS Resolution · CP/LTR Decoder · Free Help
IRS Sent You a Letter? Here Is What It Means and How to Respond
Plain-language guide to the most common IRS notices: CP2000, CP14, CP501-504, LT11, CP05, CP12, CP49, CP75, CP3219A, identity verification letters. Response deadlines, what to do if you agree or disagree, the IRS collection sequence, and where to get FREE legal help (Taxpayer Advocate Service, Low Income Taxpayer Clinics, VITA).
Read guide →Core Guide · Equity Compensation · IRC §83(a) · 2026
RSU Tax Guide 2026: Vesting, Sell-to-Cover, and the Withholding Shortfall
Why vest is the taxable event under IRC §83(a), why an 83(b) election does not apply to RSUs, sell-to-cover mechanics, the 22 percent supplemental withholding gap that surprises senior tech and finance employees, double-trigger RSUs at private companies, and post-vest capital gains. Includes the practitioner playbook for covering the marginal-rate shortfall.
Read guide →Core Guide · Equity Compensation · IRC §423 · 2026
ESPP Tax Guide 2026: Section 423 Qualifying vs Disqualifying Dispositions
How qualifying dispositions cap ordinary income at the grant-date discount while the rest becomes long-term capital gain. Why disqualifying dispositions convert the purchase spread to ordinary income. The broker basis trap that causes double taxation on Form 1099-B and how to fix it on Form 8949.
Read guide →Core Guide · Equity Compensation · IRC §55 · Form 6251 · 2026
AMT Tax Guide 2026: Alternative Minimum Tax, ISO Exercise, Form 6251 Explained
How the alternative minimum tax runs in parallel with the regular tax under IRC §55. Why the OBBBA §70107 changes (50 percent phase-out rate and lower thresholds) widen AMT exposure beginning 2026. The ISO bargain element AMT trap under §56(b)(3), the exemption phase-out math, the 26 / 28 percent rate structure, the Form 8801 minimum tax credit, and the planning playbook for ISO holders and high-SALT residents.
Read guide →Core Guide · Side Hustle · IRC §183 · Schedule C · 2026
Hobby or Business? IRS Rules for Side Hustles and Gig Work
Treasury Regulation §1.183-2(b) nine-factor profit motive test, the IRC §183(d) 3-of-5-year safe harbor (2 of 7 for horses), the $400 self-employment tax trigger, Schedule C requirements line-by-line, the TCJA hobby expense suspension, and the practitioner framework for converting a hobby into a Schedule C business.
Read guide →Core Guide · Schedule E · IRC §469 · §280A · 2026
Rental Income Tax Guide: Schedule E, Depreciation, and Passive Loss Rules
Schedule E vs Schedule C, MACRS 27.5-year straight-line depreciation, the IRC §280A 14-day Augusta Rule, the $25,000 passive loss allowance under §469(i), real estate professional status under §469(c)(7), the short-term rental loophole, NIIT exposure, and the §1250 depreciation recapture trap at sale.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRS Notice 2025-67 · SECURE 2.0 · 2026
401(k) Contribution Limits 2026 Guide: $24,500 Deferral, Catch-Up, Match
2026 employee elective deferral $24,500, age-50 catch-up $8,000, SECURE 2.0 super catch-up $11,250 for ages 60 to 63, $72,000 annual additions cap, $360,000 compensation cap, $160,000 HCE threshold, the SECURE 2.0 Roth catch-up requirement above $150,000 wages, employer match formulas, and the Mega Backdoor Roth strategy.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRS Notice 2025-67 · IRC §408A · 2026
Roth IRA Contribution Limits 2026 Guide: $7,500 Limit, MAGI Phase-Out, Backdoor Roth
2026 Roth IRA contribution limit $7,500, age-50 catch-up $1,100 (newly COLA-adjusted under SECURE 2.0 §108), MAGI phase-outs by filing status ($153K to $168K Single, $242K to $252K MFJ, $0 to $10K MFS-Together), the spousal IRA rule, the backdoor Roth IRA strategy with the pro-rata aggregation trap, the 5-year rule, the lifetime RMD exemption, and year-end planning moves.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRC §408A · Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · 2026
Roth IRA Conversion Tax Strategies (2026 Guide): Pro-Rata, 5-Year Clock, IRMAA
Plain-English authority on the 2026 Roth conversion tax math: pro-rata aggregation under IRC §408(d)(2), per-conversion 5-year clock under §408A(d)(2), bracket-fill strategy across the 2026 brackets, IRMAA two-year lookback ($109K single / $218K MFJ Tier 1), OBBBA senior deduction interaction (§70103), conversion vs traditional drawdown decision tree, Form 8606 Part II reporting, PA / NJ state tax flags, and estate planning angle.
Read guide →Core Guide · Retirement · IRC §25B · Form 8880 · SECURE 2.0 · 2025 + 2026
Saver's Credit Guide 2026: Income Limits, Eligibility, Form 8880, Saver's Match
Complete authority on the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit under IRC §25B: the 50%/20%/10% AGI brackets for 2026 and 2025 ($40,250 single / $60,375 HOH / $80,500 joint top limits for 2026), the $2,000-per-person contribution cap, the age/student/dependency tests under §25B(c), eligible accounts, the testing-period distribution trap under §25B(d)(2), the nonrefundable limit, stacking with the deduction, Form 8880 mechanics, and the 2027 Saver's Match transition under SECURE 2.0 §103.
Read guide →Core Guide · Family · IRC §23 · Form 8839 · OBBBA · 2025 + 2026
Adoption Tax Credit Guide 2026: Refundable Portion, Income Limits, Special Needs, Form 8839
Complete authority on the adoption tax credit under IRC §23: the $17,670 per-child maximum for 2026 ($17,280 for 2025), the new refundable portion (up to $5,120) added by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the MAGI phase-out from $265,080 to $305,080, what counts as a qualified expense, how special-needs adoptions claim the full credit with no expenses, the employer §137 exclusion, the domestic and foreign claim-year timing rules, the five-year carryforward under §23(c), and how to claim it all on Form 8839.
Read guide →Core Guide · Education · IRC §135 · Form 8815 · 2025 + 2026
Savings Bond Education Interest Exclusion Guide 2026: IRC §135, Form 8815
Complete authority on using U.S. savings bonds for college tax-free under IRC §135: which Series EE (post-1989) and I bonds qualify, the age-24 ownership rule that disqualifies bonds in a child's name, what tuition and fees count, the applicable-fraction proration when proceeds exceed expenses, the 2026 MAGI phase-out ($152,650 to $182,650 joint / $101,800 to $116,800 other), the MAGI add-back trap, coordination with 529 plans and education credits, the married-filing-jointly requirement, and how to claim it on Form 8815.
Read guide →Core Guide · Deductions · IRC §163(h) · Schedule A · 2025 + 2026
Mortgage Interest Deduction Guide 2026: IRC §163(h), Limits, Schedule A
Complete authority on the home mortgage interest deduction under IRC §163(h): the $750,000 vs $1 million acquisition-debt limit, the qualified-loan-limit math when your balance is over the cap, when home-equity loan interest is deductible, the mortgage insurance premium deduction restored for 2026 with its AGI phase-out, points, the qualified-home and second-home rules, itemizing vs the standard deduction, and what the One Big Beautiful Bill Act made permanent.
Read guide →Core Guide · Deductions · IRC §163(d) · Form 4952 · 2025 + 2026
Investment Interest Expense Deduction Guide 2026: IRC §163(d), Form 4952, Schedule A
Complete authority on deducting margin and other investment interest under IRC §163(d): what counts as investment interest, the net-investment-income ceiling, the qualified-dividend and net-capital-gain election on Form 4952 line 4g, the indefinite carryforward, the Schedule A line 9 mechanics, the municipal-bond margin trap under §265, the AMT difference under §56(b)(1)(C), and why OBBBA leaves §163(d) unchanged.
Read guide →Core Guide · Deductions · IRC §165(d) · New 90% Limit · 2025 + 2026
Gambling Loss Deduction Guide 2026: IRC §165(d), the New 90% Limit, Schedule A Line 16
Complete authority on deducting gambling losses under IRC §165(d): the winnings cap, the new 90 percent of losses limit for 2026 under OBBBA §70114, the phantom income the rules create, the difference between casual and professional gamblers, Form W-2G reporting, recordkeeping, state quirks, and Schedule A line 16 reporting.
Read guide →Core Guide · Deductions · IRC §170 · Schedule A Line 11 · 2025 + 2026
Charitable Contribution Deduction Guide 2026: IRC §170, AGI Limits, the New 0.5% Floor
Complete authority on the individual charitable contribution deduction under IRC §170: the 60 percent cash, 50 percent, 30 percent, and 20 percent AGI percentage limits, cash versus appreciated property, the new 0.5 percent of AGI floor for 2026 itemizers under §170(b)(1)(I), the restored $1,000 / $2,000 above-the-line deduction for non-itemizers under §170(p), the 5-year carryover, donor-advised funds and qualified charitable distributions, Form 8283 substantiation, and Schedule A line 11 reporting.
Read guide →Core Guide · Deductions · IRC §165(h) · Form 4684 · 2025 + 2026
Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction Guide 2026: IRC §165(h), Form 4684, Schedule A
Complete authority on the personal casualty and theft loss deduction under IRC §165(h): what counts as a casualty, the OBBBA-permanent federally-declared-disaster requirement, the state-declared disaster expansion effective tax year 2026 under new §165(h)(5)(C), the lesser-of-adjusted-basis-or-FMV-decline computation, the $100 per-casualty floor and 10 percent of AGI floor, qualified disaster loss treatment, Form 4684 Section A line by line, the §165(i) prior-year election, and Schedule A line 15 reporting.
Read guide →Core Guide · Health Savings · IRC §223 · Rev. Proc. 2025-19 · 2026
HSA Tax Benefits Guide 2026: Limits, HDHP Rules, Triple Tax Advantage
Complete authority on Health Savings Account taxation: 2026 contribution limits ($4,400 self / $8,750 family + $1,000 age-55 catch-up), HDHP qualification thresholds, the last-month rule and 13-month testing period under IRC §223(b)(8), the triple tax advantage, qualified medical expenses under IRC §213(d), post-65 IRA-equivalence treatment, Form 8889 reporting, and California / New Jersey state non-conformity.
Read guide →Core Guide · Equity Compensation · IRC §422 + §83 · Form 3921 · 2026
ISO vs NSO Guide 2026: Tax Treatment, AMT Trap, Holding Periods, Form 3921
Complete authority on incentive stock option vs non-qualified stock option taxation: the §422 qualifying-disposition holding period (2 years from grant + 1 year from exercise), the §56(b)(3) AMT bargain-element preference and same-year disqualifying-disposition escape, the $100,000 ISO vesting limit under §422(d), the 3-month post-termination rule under §422(a)(2), Form 3921 informational reporting, NSO ordinary-wage treatment at exercise, and the order-of-exercise decision framework when you hold both option types.
Read guide →Core Guide · Healthcare / ACA · IRC §36B · Rev. Proc. 2025-25 · Form 8962 · 2026
Premium Tax Credit Guide 2026: 400% FPL Cliff, Form 8962, MAGI, SLCSP
Complete authority on the 2026 ACA premium tax credit reset: the 400 percent FPL eligibility cliff that returned January 1, 2026 after the IRA enhanced subsidies expired, the Rev. Proc. 2025-25 applicable percentage table (2.10% floor to 9.96% top band), household MAGI under §36B(d)(2)(B), the SLCSP benchmark mechanics, Form 8962 reconciliation, the MFS bar, the §162(l) self-employed deduction interaction, state-based subsidies (CA, NJ, NY, MA, VT, WA), and the practitioner playbook for cliff-zone clients.
Read guide →Core Guide · Healthcare / Self-Employed · IRC §162(l) · Form 7206 · 2026
Self-Employed Health Insurance Deduction Guide 2026: Form 7206, IRC 162(l), S-Corp Trap
The above-the-line deduction for medical, dental, and long-term care insurance premiums under IRC §162(l). Form 7206 walkthrough (replaces former Pub 535 Worksheet 6-A), the net SE income cap by entity type (Schedule C, partnership, S-corp >2%), the 2026 LTCI age limits per Rev. Proc. 2025-32, the §162(l)(7) PTC reduction with the IRS Pub 974 iterative method, the month-by-month subsidized employer plan exclusion, and the S-corporation greater-than-2 percent shareholder W-2 reporting trap.
Read guide →Core Guide · Business Deductions / Self-Employed · IRS Notice 2026-10 · Rev. Proc. 2019-46 · 2026
Mileage Deduction Guide 2026: IRS Notice 2026-10 Rates, Standard vs Actual, OBBBA Disallowance
The 2026 IRS optional standard mileage rates from Notice 2026-10 (Business 72.5c, Medical 20.5c, Moving 20.5c active-duty only, Charitable 14c). Standard mileage vs actual expense method comparison, OBBBA §70110 W-2 employee disallowance, §70113 civilian moving disallowance, Rev. Proc. 2019-46 substantiation framework, the first-year election lock-in rule, and the basis-reduction / depreciation-recapture treatment.
Read guide →Core Guide · Business Deductions / Self-Employed · IRS Pub 587 · IRC §280A · 2026
Home Office Deduction Guide 2026: IRS Pub 587, Section 280A, Simplified vs Regular Method, Form 8829
The 2026 home office deduction under IRC §280A and IRS Pub 587. Regular and exclusive use test, principal place of business safe harbor under §280A(c)(1)(A), simplified method ($5/sq ft, $1,500 cap under Rev. Proc. 2013-13) vs regular method (Form 8829 actual expenses), §280A(c)(5) gross income limitation, depreciation recapture on home sale under §1250, OBBBA §70110 W-2 employee disallowance, daycare and inventory storage exceptions.
Read guide →Core Guide · Business Deductions / Self-Employed · IRC §199A · Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · OBBBA §70105 · 2026
QBI Deduction Guide 2026: Section 199A 20% Pass-Through Deduction, Rev. Proc. 2025-32, OBBBA Section 70105
The 2026 Section 199A qualified business income deduction. Rev. Proc. 2025-32 thresholds ($201,750 single / $403,500 MFJ), OBBBA §70105 permanent extension with expanded $75K/$150K phase-in ranges and new $400 minimum deduction, W-2 wages and UBIA limitation, SSTB phase-out and engineering/architecture carve-outs, aggregation election under Treas. Reg. §1.199A-4, Form 8995 vs Form 8995-A routing, entity choice planning around the threshold, REIT and PTP component.
Read guide →Core Guide · Business Deductions / Self-Employed · IRC §179 · Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · OBBBA §70301 · Form 4562 · 2026
Section 179 Deduction Guide 2026: IRC §179, Rev. Proc. 2025-32, OBBBA §70301, Bonus Depreciation, Form 4562
The 2026 Section 179 expensing deduction. Rev. Proc. 2025-32 §4.24 limits ($2,560,000 max / $4,090,000 phase-out / $32,000 heavy-SUV cap), OBBBA §70301 permanent 2.5x increase, qualifying property under §179(d)(1), heavy SUV cap under §179(b)(5)(A), 50% business-use requirement, §179(b)(3) taxable income limit with indefinite carryforward, 100% bonus depreciation coordination under OBBBA §70401, pass-through entity election mechanics, and Form 4562 line-by-line walkthrough.
Read guide →Core Guide · Tax Basics / Deductions · IRC §63 · Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · OBBBA §70102 + §70103 · 2025 + 2026
Standard Deduction Guide 2026 (and 2025): IRC §63, Age 65+, Blind, Dependent Computation, OBBBA $6K Senior Bonus
Complete federal standard deduction reference. Rev. Proc. 2025-32 amounts ($16,100 / $32,200 / $24,150 for 2026), OBBBA §70102 permanent increase, IRC §63(f) age 65 and blind additional standard deduction ($2,050 unmarried / $1,650 married per condition), IRC §63(c)(5) dependent computation (greater of $1,350 or earned + $450), OBBBA §70103 $6,000 senior bonus deduction with $75K / $150K MAGI phase-out, and the §63(c)(6)(A) MFS itemize-spouse coordination rule.
Read guide →Core Guide · Schedule A / Deductions · IRC §213 · 7.5% AGI Floor · 2025 + 2026
Medical Expense Deduction Guide 2026 (and 2025): IRC §213 7.5% AGI Floor, What Qualifies, Schedule A
The 7.5% of AGI floor under IRC §213, the full list of what qualifies and what does not, the age-banded long-term care premium caps ($500–$6,200 for 2026), medical mileage, the HSA/FSA double-dipping rule, the bunching strategy, and how to claim it on Schedule A for 2025 and 2026.
Read guide →Core Guide · Real Estate · IRC §453 · IRS Pub 537 · 2026
Installment Sale Tax Guide 2026: IRC §453, Form 6252, Gross Profit Ratio
Complete authority on installment sale taxation under IRC §453: gross profit ratio mechanics, contract price, year-of-sale recognition, §1245 ordinary recapture (no spread allowed), §1250 unrecaptured gain spread at max 25 percent under Treas. Reg. §1.453-12, related-party 2-year acceleration rule under §453(e), §453A interest charge on large obligations, electing out under §453(d), and Form 6252 reporting flow.
Read guide →Core Guide · Real Estate · IRC §121 · IRS Pub 523 · 2026
Home Sale §121 Exclusion Guide 2026: Capital Gains Rules & Reporting
Complete authority on the home sale exclusion: $250K single / $500K married filing jointly under IRC §121, 2-of-5-year ownership and use tests, partial exclusion for job relocation and health events under §121(c), nonqualified use reduction under §121(b)(5), §1250 unrecaptured gain at 25% for prior depreciation, NIIT at 3.8%, Form 8949 + Schedule D reporting, and state-level traps (NJ non-conformity, CA/NY/PA income tax).
Read guide →Core Guide · Independent Contracting
What to Charge as a 1099 Contractor
How to calculate your break-even hourly rate using the four-cost formula: employer FICA premium, health insurance, non-billable days, and overhead. Includes the break-even formula, contract-vs-salary comparison, and quarterly tax planning. Uses 2025 IRS rates.
Read guide →Core Guide · Estimated Taxes
How to Pay Quarterly Taxes
Who must pay, all four 2026 due dates (Q1–Q4), how to calculate your quarterly payment, safe harbor rules (90% / 100% / 110%), and how to avoid the IRS underpayment penalty. Covers Form 1040-ES and payment methods.
Read guide →Core Guide · Tax Debt · Installment Agreement
IRS Payment Plan Options: How to Pay Taxes You Owe
Short-term plans (180 days, no fee) vs long-term installment agreements (72 months, $22–$178 fee). Covers interest costs, setup fees by application method, Currently Not Collectible status, Offer in Compromise, and first-time penalty abatement for 2025–2026.
Read guide →Core Guide · Income Tax · IRC §85
Is Unemployment Taxable? Federal & State Tax Rules (2025)
Yes. Unemployment compensation is fully taxable federal income under IRC §85. Covers Form 1099-G reporting, Form W-4V 10% withholding, state exemptions (CA, NJ, PA), EITC earned income rules, FUTA, and the expired $10,200 exclusion for TY 2025.
Read guide →Core Guide · Income Tax · IRC §117
Scholarship and Fellowship Tax Guide: What Is Taxable and What Is Not
A complete guide to the IRC §117 exclusion for scholarships and fellowships. Covers qualified expenses, the degree candidate rule, TA and RA stipend taxation, quarterly estimated payment requirements, and the AOTC coordination trap. Includes 2025 calculation examples.
Read guide →Core Guide · Education Credits · IRC §25A · Form 8863 · 2025 + 2026
Education Tax Credits 2025 & 2026: American Opportunity vs Lifetime Learning Credit
Complete comparison of the AOTC and Lifetime Learning Credit for tax years 2025 and 2026 (identical statutory parameters under FCAA 2020 frozen thresholds). Covers credit amounts, eligibility rules, qualified expenses, IRC §25A MAGI phase-out ($80K-$90K single / $160K-$180K MFJ), scholarship coordination, kiddie-tax refundable bar, and the right credit for undergraduates, graduate students, and part-time learners.
Read guide →Core Guide · Education Cluster · IRC §221 · Form 1098-E · Schedule 1 Line 21 · 2025 + 2026
Student Loan Interest Deduction Guide 2026 (and 2025): IRC §221
Complete IRC §221 reference for 2026 and 2025: the $2,500 cap, the MAGI phase-out ($85K-$100K single/HOH/QSS for both years; $175K-$205K MFJ for 2026 vs $170K-$200K MFJ for 2025), MFS bar under §221(e)(2), dependent bar under §221(c), qualified loan definition, capitalized interest, origination fees, the constructive payment rule (parent paying child's loan), Form 1098-E mechanics, Schedule 1 line 21 walkthrough, and coordination with §127 employer assistance and §108(f)(5) discharged loans.
Read guide →Core Guide · Education Cluster · IRC §529 · OBBBA §70413 · SECURE 2.0 §126 · Form 1099-Q · 2025 + 2026
529 Plan Tax Benefits Guide 2026: IRC §529, OBBBA K-12 Expansion, SECURE 2.0 Roth Rollover
Complete IRC §529 reference for 2026 and 2025: tax-free growth and qualified distribution rules, K-12 $20,000 cap under OBBBA §70413 (raised from $10,000), $10,000 lifetime student loan repayment under §529(c)(9), $35,000 lifetime SECURE 2.0 §126 529-to-Roth IRA rollover (15-year account age + 5-year contribution lookback + earned income), 10% additional tax exceptions under §530(d)(4), AOTC/LLC coordination under §529(c)(3)(B)(v), 5-year forward gift tax election, state tax deductions and recapture, and Form 1099-Q reporting.
Read guide →Core Guide · Education Cluster · IRC §530 · §4973 Excise · IRS Topic 310 · Pub 970 Ch 6 · 2025 + 2026
Coverdell ESA Guide 2026: Contribution Limits, Income Phase-Out, Qualified Expenses, Distribution Tax
Complete IRC §530 reference for 2026 and 2025: the $2,000 annual contribution limit, the $95,000-$110,000 (single) and $190,000-$220,000 (joint) MAGI phase-out, qualified K-12 and college expenses, the age-18 contribution cutoff and age-30 forced distribution, the 10% additional tax on non-qualified distributions, the 6% excise on excess contributions under §4973(e), Coverdell vs 529, and tax-free rollover options. None of these figures changed under OBBBA.
Read guide →Core Guide · Income Foundation · IRC §62 · AGI vs MAGI · 7 Definitions · 2025 + 2026
Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) Guide 2026: AGI vs MAGI, All 7 Definitions
How AGI is computed under IRC §62, why there is no single MAGI, and the exact add-backs for the seven benefits that use it: the traditional IRA deduction and Roth IRA limit (Pub 590-A Worksheets 1-1/2-1), the Premium Tax Credit (§36B), education credits (§25A), student loan interest (§221), the Net Investment Income Tax (§1411), and Medicare IRMAA. Plus why the OBBBA tips, overtime, and senior deductions on Schedule 1-A do NOT reduce AGI or MAGI.
Read guide →Core Guide · Filing Requirement · IRS Pub 501
Do I Need to File Taxes? 2025 Filing Thresholds Explained
A plain-language guide to the 2025 federal filing thresholds for every filing status and age combination. Covers the dependent filing rules, blind add-ons, special triggers (SE income, HSA, marketplace coverage), and six reasons to file even when not required. Based on IRS Publication 501.
Read guide →Interactive · 1099 Tax
1099 Tax Calculator
Instantly estimate your full federal tax liability on 1099 income, including self-employment tax, income tax by bracket, effective rate, and your quarterly estimated payment. No signup required.
Open calculator →Reference · Deadlines
2026 Tax Deadlines & Countdown Timers
Live countdown timers for every major 2026 federal tax deadline: Form 1040 (April 15), quarterly estimated taxes (Q1–Q4), S-Corp and Partnership returns (March 16), 1099 e-file (March 31), and more.
View deadlines →Tool · Refund Tracking
Federal & State Tax Refund Tracker
Direct links to the IRS Where's My Refund tool and all 50 state refund status portals. Includes typical wait times, what information you need, and what to do if your refund is delayed.
Track refund →Refund Guide · IRS Status
IRS "Still Being Processed": What It Means
Your IRS tracker shows "Still Being Processed", here's what it means, how long it takes, the most common causes, and exactly when to contact the IRS or Taxpayer Advocate Service.
Read guide →Refund Guide · State Refunds
State Tax Refund Processing Times (2026)
E-filed and paper return processing windows by state, California, New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Illinois, Georgia, Michigan, and more. Includes why times vary and what to do if your refund is delayed.
Read guide →Refund Guide · WMR Tax Codes
IRS Tax Topics Explained: What 152, 151, 203 Mean (2026)
Tax Topic 152 means normal processing. Topic 151 means the IRS has proposed an adjustment to your return and you have appeal rights. Topic 203 means your refund was reduced by a government debt offset. Includes what to do when the topic disappears from WMR.
Read guide →Refund Guide · IRS Contact
When to Call the IRS About Your Refund
The IRS recommends waiting 21 days after e-filing or 6 weeks after mailing before calling 800-829-1040. Learn what to have ready, when calling helps, and when to contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service instead.
Read guide →Refund Guide · Delay Reasons
Why Is My Tax Refund Delayed? (2026)
The most common causes of a delayed federal refund: PATH Act holds on EITC and ACTC returns, identity verification letters, math errors, refund offsets, and manual review. Includes IRS status message explanations and a step-by-step action guide.
Read guide →Refund Guide · Processing Timelines
IRS Refund Timeline: How Long Does a Tax Refund Take? (2026)
Standard IRS processing windows for e-filed and paper returns, PATH Act holds on EITC and ACTC claims, direct deposit vs. paper check delivery times, and amended return timelines. Includes Where's My Refund guidance.
Read guide →Refund Guide · Amended Return Status
Where's My Amended Return? IRS 1040-X Status Guide (2026)
How to check your amended return status using the IRS Where's My Amended Return tool. Covers the three status stages, processing times up to 20 weeks, e-file vs. paper timelines, and when to call the IRS about Form 1040-X.
Read guide →Refund Guide · Approved Status
IRS Refund Approved But Not Sent (2026)
What the IRS "Refund Approved" status means, how long direct deposit and paper check delivery take after approval, why the deposit date may pass without funds arriving, and when to contact the IRS or your bank.
Read guide →Refund Guide · Processing Stages
IRS Refund Processing Stages Explained (2026)
A complete breakdown of the three stages in Where's My Refund: Return Received, Refund Approved, and Refund Sent. Covers what each status means, how long each stage lasts, PATH Act impact, and what to do when a stage stalls.
Read guide →Refund Guide · Missing Refund
IRS Refund Sent But Not Received (2026)
What to do when Where's My Refund shows "Refund Sent" but no direct deposit has arrived or no paper check has appeared in the mail. Covers IRS refund trace procedures, Form 3911, replacement check timelines, and stolen check recovery.
Read guide →Refund Guide · Offset · Treasury TOP
Tax Refund Offset: Why Your Refund Was Reduced (2025)
Which debts can reduce your federal tax refund through the Treasury Offset Program, in what order offsets are applied, how to check if your refund will be offset, and how injured spouse relief (Form 8379) works.
Read guide →Refund Guide · Identity Verification
IRS Letter 5071C: Identity Verification Guide (2026)
What IRS Letter 5071C means, how to verify your identity online at idverify.irs.gov or by phone, what documents to prepare, and what to expect after verification. Includes steps if you did not file the return and how 5071C differs from other identity letters.
Read guide →Hub · Payroll Tools
Payroll Calculators and Payroll Tax Tools
Entry point for the payroll vertical. Covers payroll calculators, state payroll tax hubs, and payroll guides for employees and employers. Includes FICA withholding, Form W-4, and payroll tax deadlines.
View payroll tools →Guide · OBBBA · Tip Deduction
No Tax on Tips: OBBBA Deduction Explained
Complete guide to the qualified tip income deduction under IRC § 224. Covers which occupations qualify, how the phase-out works, FICA/SECA impact, how to claim on Schedule 1-A, and when the deduction does not apply.
Read guide →Guide · OBBBA · Overtime Deduction
No Tax on Overtime: OBBBA Deduction Explained
Complete guide to the qualified overtime compensation deduction under IRC § 225. Covers the premium-only rule, FLSA overtime definition, phase-out mechanics, FICA treatment, and how to claim on Schedule 1-A for TY 2025.
Read guide →Guide · OBBBA · Auto Loan Deduction
Auto Loan Interest Deduction: OBBBA § 227 Explained
Complete guide to the qualified motor vehicle loan interest deduction under IRC § 227. Covers qualifying vehicle rules, the U.S.-assembly requirement, phase-out mechanics, refinancing restrictions, and how to claim on Schedule 1-A for TY 2025.
Read guide →Guide · OBBBA · SALT Cap Increase
SALT Deduction Cap Increase 2025–2029: $40,000 Limit Explained
How the OBBBA raised the SALT deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000 for TY 2025–2029. Covers who benefits, the itemizing requirement, phase-out above $500,000 MAGI, AMT interaction, and how to claim on Schedule A.
Read guide →Guide · OBBBA · Children's Savings
Trump Account (MAGA Account) 2025: Rules, Limits, and How It Works
How Trump Accounts work under the OBBBA. The $1,000 federal seed for newborns, the $5,000 annual contribution limit, U.S. index fund restrictions, distribution rules at age 18, and how it compares to 529 plans and Coverdell ESAs.
Read guide →Guide · OBBBA · CTC · Refundable Credit
Child Tax Credit Under the OBBBA (2025): $2,500 Per Child, Eligibility, and Refundability
How the OBBBA changed the Child Tax Credit. $2,500 per qualifying child for TY 2025–2028. Covers phase-out thresholds, the ACTC refundable formula, qualifying child rules, PATH Act hold, and comparison to prior TCJA law.
Read guide →Guide · OBBBA · Senior Deduction · Age 65+
New $6,000 Senior Tax Deduction Explained (OBBBA 2025–2028)
How the OBBBA added a $6,000 enhanced standard deduction for taxpayers age 65 or older. Covers the three-layer deduction system, phase-out rules ($75K single / $150K MFJ), MFS ineligibility, how to claim on Schedule 1-A, and the 2028 sunset.
Read guide →Hub Guide · OBBBA · All Six Provisions
OBBBA Tax Changes 2025: All Six Provisions Explained
Complete reference for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Pub. L. 119-21). All six TY 2025–2028 tax provisions in one place: no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, auto loan interest deduction, SALT cap increase, Trump Account, and Child Tax Credit. Includes who is affected, how to stack benefits, and links to every calculator and guide.
Read hub guide →Guide · MFJ vs MFS · Head of Household · IRC §§ 1, 2
Tax Filing Status Guide 2025: How to Choose the Right One
All five 2025 filing statuses explained with standard deductions and bracket thresholds. Covers the head of household requirements most filers get wrong, the "considered unmarried" rule for married filers, credits lost by filing separately, and the MFJ vs MFS income tax comparison. Includes the student loan repayment tradeoff analysis.
Read guide →Guide · IRC §86 · Provisional Income · OBBBA §70103
Is Social Security Taxable? How to Calculate Your Taxable Benefits
Complete guide to Social Security benefit taxation under IRC Section 86. Covers the three-step provisional income formula, the 0%/50%/85% taxability tiers, the tax torpedo effect, the OBBBA $6,000 senior deduction impact, states that tax Social Security, and strategies including Roth conversions and Qualified Charitable Distributions.
Read guide →Guide · Form W-4 · IRC §3402 · TY 2026
How to Fill Out the W-4 Form in 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Complete walkthrough of all five W-4 steps: personal information and filing status, the multiple-jobs adjustment (the most commonly skipped step), dependent credits, other income and deductions, and signature. Covers OBBBA deductions for tips, overtime premium, and seniors, and explains when to submit a new W-4.
Read guide →Guide · Refundable Credit · IRC § 32
Earned Income Tax Credit 2025: Income Limits, Eligibility, and Amounts
Complete reference for the 2025 EITC. Covers income limits for 0 to 3+ children, the phase-in and phase-out mechanics, qualifying child rules, the special rules for workers without children, and the PATH Act refund hold. Includes three worked scenarios and practitioner notes on the investment income trap.
Read guide →Guide · Schedule A · OBBBA SALT
Itemized Deductions List 2025: What Can You Deduct on Schedule A?
Full breakdown of every Schedule A deduction category for 2025: SALT ($40,000 OBBBA cap with phase-out), mortgage interest ($750K debt limit), charitable contributions, medical expenses (7.5% AGI floor), and casualty losses. Covers who benefits most from itemizing and the MFS coordination rule.
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