End of Year Tax Tips

The stockings are still hung with care and the holiday ham is still baking, but now is the time to start thinking about taxes. The IRS will begin accepting federal returns on January 19. 

There are some things filers can do to save some money. 

First, check with an employer to see if money can be carried over from Flexible Spending Accounts. If not, be sure to use the remaining balance before the 1st of the year to avoid losing it. Also, evaluate health insurance. People who were uninsured for more than three months in 2015 should visit healthcare.gov for a potential tax exemption. 

Next, assess gains and losses from the year. Capital gains can be offset by capital losses and reduce taxable income. 

Also, keep in mind charitable contributions are tax deductible. Those donations must made before 11:59 p.m. on December 31 to qualify for an itemized deduction.