Be the Best You Can Be

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For 18 years I have been preparing income tax returns for individuals. Unfortunately even as a tax preparer I miss deductions on my client’s tax returns but for those who prepare their own returns I am certain these 10 tax deductible items are almost always overlooked.

1. Miles driven for medical related incidences are deductible as an itemized deduction. The rate is $.20 for 2007 and $.19 for 2008. Miles are totaled for doctor visits and hospital visits. Start adding them up and you will be amazed. Think about it on a weekly or monthly basis and then multiply by 52 or 12 respectively.

2. Mortgage interest paid on a 2nd mortgage is often overlooked. If you have a motor home with a functioning kitchen and bathroom you are entitled to this often over looked tax deductible item.

3. Charitable donations are often overlooked since we do this out of the kindness of our hearts. But when it comes tax time sit down and figure these up. Include donations to Deseret Industries and vehicles donated to different foundations.

4. Expenses incurred during a move that is job related are a tax deductible item. Ask your tax preparer about this one as there are certain tests to be satisfied. If you qualify include expenses for transportation and storage of household goods. Also travel including lodging from your old home to your new home is deductible.

5. Alimony is deductible by the payer and reportable by the recipient. Do not pass this up as this can take a little pain away from the amount being paid each month to the ex. If you are in a 28% tax bracket and the alimony amount is $1000.00 per month then the annual tax reduction is $3,360.

6. Interest paid on student loans is deductible. Many times after graduation you take a new job and your address changes. The year end statement showing the amount of interest paid for the calendar year gets misplaced. Therefore, if you paid student loan interest or have a child that did do not pass this tax deductible item up.

7. Most of us know that we can deduct our real estate taxes on our home but did you also know the state income taxes withheld from your W-2 are also deductible. Also the state income taxes paid during the year for a prior year should be included as a deduction.

8. Personal loans you have made to family and friends who have not repaid you are deductible. The IRS does not require you to take these people to court to be able to take this deduction. If you have capital gains and are looking for a way to off set them this deduction can be golden.

9. If you are self employed there are countless deductions but for the purpose of this article do not be afraid to take a loss on line 12 of your 1040 resulting from your Schedule C. If I did not make any income from my self employed venture can I take a loss? Yes absolutely.

10. Rental income from a family member is usually unreported because we want to beat the system. First this is illegal but second you are missing out on a very large tax deductible item.