We are all holding our breath. We all want to know. Will the 2009 economic stimulus bill reverse our wayward economy? Unfortunately, it will take months, or longer, to find out. In the meantime, we can ask what this giant government spending plan will do for us—young Americans—individually. What will the 2009 economic stimulus plan mean for you? [...]

My article on the $7,500 first time home buyer tax credit has become one of the most popular on this site, with well over 200 comments. As part of this month’s economic stimulus bill, that credit is changing to an $8,000 tax credit that, unlike the first credit, will not have to be repaid. Here’s what we know:. [...]

As if our federal tax code isn’t complicated enough, the Internal Revenue Service goes and changes it every year. And 2008 was no different. The IRS adjusted tax brackets, exemptions, and standard deductions for inflation and added new credits. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the 2008 tax changes most likely to impact twenty-somethings. [...]

It’s true, the older you get and the more complicated your life gets, the more tax breaks you can claim on your tax return. But just because you’re young doesn’t mean you don’t qualify for tax deductions, credits, and other breaks. [...]

I just learned about the retirement saver’s tax credit. If you qualify, this tax credit is definitely worthwhile.

In a nutshell, if you fall under the income caps and contribute up to $2,000 to any retirement plan (401[k], traditional IRA, or even a Roth IRA), you may be able to take a tax credit of up to 50% of that contributed amount. (A tax credit, as opposed to a deduction, means the money comes right off of what you owe—or gets added to your refund you receive!) [...]

I have certainly been guilty of filing my taxes at midnight on April 15th, but as I get older and my taxes get more complicated, I can’t afford to wait until March to start getting my taxes in order. Here are five things I’ve found helpful to start doing in January to ensure filing your taxes are as painless as possible. [...]

Finding out you owe federal income taxes at filing time is no fun, but did you know that the IRS can charge you interest and penalties if you don’t properly estimate (and pay) your taxes on at least a quarterly basis? If you’re self-employed or earn additional income from sources that do not withhold federal income taxes (i.e., you receive 1099 forms), you may have to make quarterly estimated tax payments. [...]

Did you know that if you are an American buying your first home between April 9, 2008 and July 1, 2009, the U.S. government will give you up to $7,500 in the form of a federal tax credit? [...]

Sixteen states are offering sales tax holidays this August, providing consumers with a couple of days to shop tax-free. Should you take the bait? [...]

Donating your unused clothing makes a lot of sense; you can help out a charity like Goodwill or the Salvation Army while cleaning out your closet. You’ll even score a small tax deduction. But choose whom you give you clothes to carefully; for-profit companies are now setting up clothing drop boxes and then reselling your duds to consignment stores or textile recyclers. [...]