4 Easy Steps Toward Tackling Tax Time
Benjamin Franklin once wrote, “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” For some, tax time is the more intimidating option.
Save yourself the hassle and aggravation of tax season by taking steps to gather what you need before the taxman comes calling. By being better organized, you’ll put yourself in a position to further your support of North Carolina Zoo Society and other causes close to your heart.
- Gather Your Documents. Employers have until Jan. 31 to send earning statements. When you receive your tax forms, review them for accuracy. The earlier you are able to catch potential errors, the lower your chance of a penalty in April.
- Get Organized. If you have receipts from charitable organizations or major home improvements, now is the time to organize your paperwork. Remember to make note of any major life changes and their implications as you file this year.
- Itemize, Itemize, Itemize. Instead of opting for the standard deductions to reduce your taxable income, list each tax deduction and credit you may qualify for. When you itemize your deductions, you can deduct charitable donations that you’ve made during the year. Visit IRS.gov to read more about the variety of credits and deductions available this year.
- File Electronically. Once you’ve calculated your adjusted gross income, itemized your deductions and credits, and completed the necessary tax forms, you are ready to file your taxes. Visit IRS.gov to explore the many electronic filing options (known as E-File) available for individuals looking to get an early start. Electronic filing is the best way to ensure an error-free return.
Did you support the N.C. Zoo Society with an annual gift last year?
Contact Russ H. Williams at 336-879-7252 or rwilliams@nczoo.com to learn how you can extend your impact and support the N.C. Zoo Society with a gift in your estate.
The information on this website is not intended as legal or tax advice. For such advice, please consult an attorney or tax advisor. Figures cited in examples are for hypothetical purposes only and are subject to change. References to estate and income taxes include federal taxes only. State income/estate taxes or state law may impact your results. Annuities are subject to regulation by the State of California. Payments under such agreements, however, are not protected or otherwise guaranteed by any government agency or the California Life and Health Insurance Guarantee Association. A charitable gift annuity is not regulated by the Oklahoma Insurance Department and is not protected by a guaranty association affiliated with the Oklahoma Insurance Department. Charitable gift annuities are not regulated by and are not under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Division of Insurance.