The IRS has released much-anticipated temporary and proposed regulations on the capitalization of costs incurred for tangible property. They impact how virtually any business writes off costs that repair, maintain, improve or replace any tangible property used in the business, from office furniture to roof repairs to photocopy maintenance and everything in between. They apply immediately, to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2012.

The IRS has released much-anticipated temporary and proposed regulations on the capitalization of costs incurred for tangible property. They impact how virtually any business writes off costs that repair, maintain, improve or replace any tangible property used in the business, from office furniture to roof repairs to photocopy maintenance and everything in between. They apply immediately, to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2012.

These so-called “repair regulations” are broad and comprehensive. They apply not only to repairs, but to the capitalization of amounts paid to acquire, produce or improve tangible property. They are intended to clarify and expand existing regulations, set out some bright-line tests, and provide some safe harbors for deducting payments.

The regulations are an ambitious effort to address capitalization of specific expenses associated with tangible property. The regulations affect manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and retailers—everyone who uses tangible property, whether the property is owned or leased. The rules provide a more defined framework for determining capital expenditures.

Most taxpayers will have to make changes to their method of accounting to comply with the temporary regulations and will need to file Form 3115. Taxpayers who filed for a change of accounting method following the issuance of the 2008 proposed regulations will probably have to change their accounting method again.

The IRS has promised to issue two revenue procedures that will provide transition rules for taxpayers changing their method of accounting, including the granting of automatic consent to make the change. The regulations require taxpayers to make a Code Sec. 481(a) adjustment; this means that taxpayers will have to apply the regulations to costs incurred both prior to and after the effective date of the regulations.

The new regulations provide rules for materials and supplies that can be deducted, rather than capitalized. The rules provide several methods of accounting for rotable and temporary spare parts, and allow taxpayers to apply a de minimis rule so that they can deduct materials and supplies when they are purchased, not when they are consumed.

Costs to acquire, produce or improve tangible property must be capitalized. The regulations address moving and reinstallation costs, work performed prior to placing property into service, and transaction costs. Generally, costs of simply removing property can be deducted, but costs of moving and then reinstalling property may have to be capitalized.

To determine whether a cost incurred for property is an improvement, it is necessary to determine the unit of property. Generally, the larger the unit of property, the easier it is to deduct expenses, rather than have to capitalize them. The regulations provide detailed rules for determining the unit of property for buildings and for non-building tangible property. For buildings, the IRS identified eight component systems as separate units of property, requiring more costs to be capitalized. However, the new rules also provide for deducting the costs of property taken out of service, by treating the retirement as a disposition.

The new regulations require virtually every business to review how repairs, maintenance, improvements and replacements are handled for tax purposes, with both mandatory and optional adjustments made to past treatment as appropriate.

Please feel free to call this office for a more targeted explanation of how these new regulations impact your business operations.

The fate of the employee-side payroll tax cut along with a host of tax extenders and other expired provisions could be decided in coming weeks. A conference committee of House and Senate members is negotiating a full-year extension of the payroll tax cut and could add some or all of the tax extenders to a final package. Lawmakers also could extend the payroll tax cut without acting on any tax incentives.

The fate of the employee-side payroll tax cut along with a host of tax extenders and other expired provisions could be decided in coming weeks. A conference committee of House and Senate members is negotiating a full-year extension of the payroll tax cut and could add some or all of the tax extenders to a final package. Lawmakers also could extend the payroll tax cut without acting on any tax incentives.

Payroll tax cut

The Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Continuation Act of 2011 extended the employee-side OASDI tax cut through the end of February 2012. The employee-share of OASDI taxes is 4.2 percent for the two-month period, rather than 6.2 percent. The employer-share of OASDI taxes remains at 6.2 percent for the two month period. Self-employed individuals also benefit from a two percentage point reduction in OASDI taxes.

Unless extended, the employee-share of OASDI taxes is scheduled to revert to 6.2 percent after February 29, 2012. The White House and the leaders of the two parties in Congress agree that the payroll tax cut should be extended a full-year. They disagree, however, how to pay for the extension; even if it should be paid for at all.

Congress could extend the two-month payroll tax cut through the end of 2012 without paying for it. The 2011 payroll tax cut was unfunded. Congress appropriated to the Social Security trust funds amounts equal to the reduction in payroll tax revenues. The 2011 payroll tax cut was estimated by the Congressional Budget Office cost approximately $111 billion. Extending it through the end of 2012 is estimated to cost just as much if not more.

House Republicans reportedly have proposed a number of revenue raisers to offset the cost of extending the payroll tax cut through the end of 2012. One GOP proposal would extend the current pay freeze for employees of the federal government. Another GOP proposal would require higher-income individuals to pay increased Medicare premiums.

One possible revenue raiser, increasingly under discussion by Democrats, is a change in the taxation of so-called carried interest. Current law generally taxes carried interest as capital gains and not as ordinary income. Past efforts to change the tax treatment of carried interest have failed to pass Congress.

Extenders

The so-called tax extenders, popular but temporary tax provisions, expired at the end of 2011. Many taxpayers are surprised to learn that their particular tax break, whether it be the state or local sales tax deduction, the teachers’ classroom expense deduction, or the research tax credit, are temporary. The extenders have been routinely revived many times in the past. This year, however, could be different. Faced with record federal budget deficits, lawmakers may decide to extend only some of the expired provisions.

President Obama’s FY 2013 proposals

President Obama is expected to release his fiscal year (FY) 2013 federal budget proposals in early February, which will reignite debate over the Bush-era tax cuts. President Obama is expected to urge Congress to allow the Bush-era tax cuts to expire after 2012 for higher-income taxpayers, which President Obama defines as individuals earning more than $200,000 or families earning more than $250,000. In recent weeks, there has been speculation that President Obama may revisit those definitions in his FY 2013 budget, possibly raising the amounts.

Few Capitol Hill observers expect Congress to take any action on the Bush-era tax cuts before the November elections. Instead, Congress may take up some of President Obama’s other proposals. As in past budgets, President Obama will likely propose to extend some energy tax breaks for individuals and businesses, extend tax incentives for education and provide some targeted-tax breaks to businesses. President Obama has also promised to introduce proposals to encourage U.S. companies to “insource” jobs at home.

On some issues, such as energy and education, lawmakers may find common ground but negotiations are likely to go down to the wire. Our office will keep you posted of developments.

If you have any questions about the payroll tax cut, tax extenders or the various tax proposals under discussion, please contact our office.

The IRS reopened its offshore voluntary disclosure program in early 2012 in response to what the government described as strong interest among taxpayers. The reopened program, the third of its type in recent years, encourages taxpayers with unreported foreign accounts to make full disclosures in exchange for a reduced penalty framework. Like its predecessors, the terms and conditions of the reopened program are very complex. The IRS has promised to provide more details. In the meantime, the prior offshore disclosure programs are guides to how the IRS intends to implement the third, reopened program.

The IRS reopened its offshore voluntary disclosure program in early 2012 in response to what the government described as strong interest among taxpayers. The reopened program, the third of its type in recent years, encourages taxpayers with unreported foreign accounts to make full disclosures in exchange for a reduced penalty framework. Like its predecessors, the terms and conditions of the reopened program are very complex. The IRS has promised to provide more details. In the meantime, the prior offshore disclosure programs are guides to how the IRS intends to implement the third, reopened program.

Previous disclosure programs

The IRS launched two previous offshore disclosure initiatives: one in 2009 and another in 2011. Both programs offered reduced penalties in exchange for full disclosure. In early 2012, the IRS reported it received 33,000 voluntary disclosures from the 2009 and 2011 offshore initiatives. The government has collected over $4.4 billion from the 2009 and 2011 programs. The IRS predicted it will collect more revenue as it continues to work cases.

Reopened program

The reopened program operates very similarly to the 2009 and 2011 programs but with some key differences. The previous programs were temporary. The 2011 program ended in mid-September 2011. The reopened program has no set end date. The IRS cautioned, however, that it could close the program at some future date. The decision to end the program is solely at the discretion of the IRS.

The reopened program requires taxpayers to file all original and amended tax returns and include payment for back-taxes and interest for up to eight years as well as pay accuracy-related and/or delinquency penalties. Additionally, taxpayers must pay a penalty of 27.5 percent of the highest aggregate balance in foreign bank accounts/entities or value of foreign assets during the eight full tax years prior to the disclosure. In comparison, the highest penalty in the 2011 program was 25 percent. IRS officials have said that the penalty was increased because the agency does not want to reward taxpayers who did not participate in the 2009 or 2011 disclosure programs because they anticipated that a future penalty would be lower.

In limited circumstances, taxpayers may qualify for a 12.5 percent penalty or a five percent penalty. Generally, taxpayers whose offshore accounts or assets did not surpass $75,000 in any calendar year may qualify for the 12.5 percent penalty.

The requirements for the five percent penalty are very narrow. The IRS has explained that taxpayers must meet four conditions: (1) The taxpayer did not open or cause the account to be opened; (2) the taxpayer exercised minimal, infrequent contact with the account, for example, to request the account balance, or update account holder information such as a change in address, contact person, or email address; (3) except for a withdrawal closing the account and transferring the funds to an account in the United States, the taxpayer did not withdraw more than $1,000 from the account in any year for which the taxpayer was non-compliant; and (4) the taxpayer can show that all applicable U.S. taxes have been paid on funds deposited to the account (only account earnings have escaped U.S. taxation).

The penalty amounts in the reopened program are not set in stone, the IRS cautioned. It may eventually increase penalties in the program for all or some taxpayers or defined classes of taxpayers.

Quiet disclosures

One goal of the three programs is to caution taxpayers against so-called “quiet disclosures.” A quiet disclosure occurs when a taxpayer files an amended return and pays any tax delinquency without making a formal voluntary disclosure. The IRS warned taxpayers making quiet disclosures that they risked being sanctioned to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Critics

The offshore disclosure programs were not without their critics. The National Taxpayer Advocate recently told Congress that the IRS should streamline what is a very complicated process. The National Taxpayer Advocate also reported that IRS examiners were assuming that all violations were willful unless a taxpayer presented evidence to the contrary. It is possible that the IRS may revisit some of the terms and conditions of the reopened program in light of the National Taxpayer Advocate’s report.

If you have any questions about the reopened offshore voluntary disclosure program, please contact our office.

Taxpayers with children should be aware of the numerous tax breaks for which they may qualify. Among them are: the dependency exemption, child tax credit, child care credit, and adoption credit. As they get older, education tax credits for higher education may be available; as is a new tax code requirement for employer-sponsored health care to cover young adults up to age 26. Employers of parents with young children may also qualify for the child care assistance credit.

Taxpayers with children should be aware of the numerous tax breaks for which they may qualify. Among them are: the dependency exemption, child tax credit, child care credit, and adoption credit. As they get older, education tax credits for higher education may be available; as is a new tax code requirement for employer-sponsored health care to cover young adults up to age 26. Employers of parents with young children may also qualify for the child care assistance credit.

Dependency Exemption

In addition to the personal exemption an individual taxpayer may take for him or herself to reduce taxable income (Line 42 on Form 1040), that taxpayer may also take an exemption for each qualifying dependent who has lived with the taxpayer for more than half of the tax year. A dependent may be a natural child, step-child, step-sibling, half-sibling, adopted child, eligible foster child, or grandchild, and generally must be under age 19, a full-time student under age 24, or have special needs. The amount of the exemption is the same as the taxpayer’s personal exemption, $3,700 for the 2011 tax year and $3,800 for the 2012 tax year.

Child Tax Credit

Parents of children who are under age 17 at the end of the tax year may qualify for a refundable $1,000 tax credit. The credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction of tax liability, and may be listed on Line 51 of Form 1040. For every $1,000 of adjusted gross income above the threshold limit ($110,000 for married joint filers; $75,000 for single filers), the amount of the credit decreases by $50.

Child and Dependent Care Credit

If a taxpayer must pay for childcare for a child under age 13 in order to pursue or maintain gainful employment, he or she may claim up to $3,000 of his or her eligible expenses for dependent care. If one parent stays home full-time, however, no child care costs are eligible for the credit.

Adoption Credit

Taxpayers who have incurred qualified adoption expenses in 2011 may claim either a $13,360 credit against tax owed or a $13,360 income exclusion if the taxpayer has received payments or reimbursements from his or her employer for adoption expenses. For 2012, the amount of the credit will decrease to $12,650, and in 2013 to $5,000.

Higher Education Credits

There are two education-related credits available for 2012: the American Opportunity credit and the lifetime learning credit. The American Opportunity credit amount is the sum of 100 percent of the first $2,000 of qualified tuition and related expenses plus 25 percent of the next $2,000 of qualified tuition and related expenses, for a total maximum credit of $2,500 per eligible student per year. The credit is available for the first four years of a student's post-secondary education. The credit amount phases out ratably for taxpayers with modified AGI between $80,000 and $90,000 ($160,000 and $180,000 for joint filers). The lifetime learning credit is equal to 20 percent of the amount of qualified tuition expenses paid on the first $10,000 of tuition per family. The phaseout for 2012 ranges from $52,000 to $62,000 ($104,000 to $124,000 for joint filers). Parents also find tax relief in saving for college though Coverdell accounts, section 529 plans and specified U.S.. savings bonds.

Extended Health Care Coverage

Effective since September 23, 2010, the new health care law requires plans to provide coverage for children until they attain age 26. Further, effective on or after March 30, 2010, children under the age of 27 are considered dependents of a taxpayer for purposes of the general exclusion from income for reimbursements for medical care expenses of an employee, spouse, and dependents under an employer-provided accident or health plan. Therefore, a plan must provide coverage to a child who is still a dependent up to age 26; but can do so up to age 27 without income tax consequences. A child includes a son, daughter, stepson, or stepdaughter of the taxpayer; a foster child placed with the taxpayer by an authorized placement agency or by judgment, decree, or other order of any court of competent jurisdiction; and a legally adopted child of the taxpayer or a child who has been lawfully placed with the taxpayer for legal adoption.

Child Care Assistance Credit (for businesses)

Employers may take up to $150,000 of the eligible costs of providing employees with child care assistance as tax credit. These costs may include a portion of the costs of acquiring, constructing, improving, and operating a child care facility.

If you have any questions about these provisions and how they may benefit you, please contact our office.

The Treasury Department is authorized to offset a taxpayer’s tax refund to satisfy certain debts. A spouse who believes that his or her portion of the refund should not be used to offset the debt that the other spouse owes may request a refund from the IRS.

The Treasury Department is authorized to offset a taxpayer’s tax refund to satisfy certain debts. A spouse who believes that his or her portion of the refund should not be used to offset the debt that the other spouse owes may request a refund from the IRS.

Offset

If an individual owes money to the federal government because of a delinquent debt, the Treasury Department’s Financial Management Service (FMS) can offset that individual's tax refund (and certain other federal payments) to satisfy the debt. The debtor will be notified in advance of the offset.

A taxpayer’s refund may be reduced by FMS and offset to pay:

• Past-due child support
• Federal agency non-tax debts
• State income tax obligations, or
• Certain unemployment compensation debts owed a state.

FMS advises taxpayers by written notice of an offset. FMS has explained that the notice will reflect the original refund amount, the taxpayer’s offset amount, the agency receiving the payment, and the address and telephone number of the agency. FMS will notify the IRS of the amount taken from your refund.

Form 8379

If a taxpayer filed a joint return and is not responsible for the debt of his or her spouse, the taxpayer may request his or her portion of the refund by filing Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation, with the IRS. Form 8379 may be filed with the original return or by itself after the taxpayer is aware of the offset.

The IRS has instructed taxpayers filing Form 8379 by itself to attach a copy of all Forms W-2 and W-2G for both spouses, and any Forms 1099 showing federal income tax withholding to Form 8379. Failure to attach these items may result in a delay in processing by the IRS.

The IRS has reported on its website that it generally processes Forms 8379 that are filed after a joint return has been filed in approximately eight weeks. The timeframe for processing a Form 8379 that is attached to a joint return is approximately 11 weeks (14 weeks if the joint return is filed on paper).

As an individual or business, it is your responsibility to be aware of and to meet your tax filing/reporting deadlines. This calendar summarizes important tax reporting and filing data for individuals, businesses and other taxpayers for the month of February 2012.

As an individual or business, it is your responsibility to be aware of and to meet your tax filing/reporting deadlines. This calendar summarizes important tax reporting and filing data for individuals, businesses and other taxpayers for the month of February 2012.

February 1

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates January 25–27.

February 3

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates January 28–31.

February 8

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 1–3.

February 10

Employees who work for tips. Employees who received $20 or more in tips during November must report them to their employer using Form 4070.

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 4–7.

February 15

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 8–10.

Monthly depositors. Monthly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payments in January.

February 17

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 11–14.

February 23

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 15–17.

February 24

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 18–21.

February 29

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 22–24.

March 2

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 25–28.

March 7

Employers. Semi-weekly depositors must deposit employment taxes for payroll dates February 29–March 2.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 (ARRTA) provides more than $75 billion worth of tax benefits for business for 2009 and 2010, in addition to numerous individual tax breaks. This article highlights some of the valuable tax breaks for businesses in the new law.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 (ARRTA) provides more than $75 billion worth of tax benefits for business for 2009 and 2010, in addition to numerous individual tax breaks. This article highlights some of the valuable tax breaks for businesses in the new law.

Bonus Depreciation. The ARRTA extends bonus depreciation under the 2008 Economic Stimulus Act, allowing businesses to immediately write-off an additional 50-percent of the cost of qualifying depreciable property placed in service before 2010. The additional 50-percent first-year bonus depreciation applies retroactively to capital expenses incurred on or after January 1, 2009. Qualified property includes most types of new property, including equipment, computers, tractors, wind turbines and solar panels.

The ARRTA also extends through 2010 additional first-year bonus depreciation for property with a recovery period of 10 years or longer, for transportation property (for example, tangible personal property used to transport people or property, and for certain aircraft).

Note. Effective January 1, 2009, the ARRTA law also increases the regular dollar caps for new passenger vehicles placed in service after 2008 and before 2010 by $8,000 when bonus depreciation is claimed.

Code Sec. 179 Expensing. For 2009, the ARRTA extends the Code Sec. 179 expensing amounts, which had been increased by the 2008 Economic Stimulus Act. For 2009, the Code Sec. 179 expensing amount is $250,000 and the investment ceiling is $800,000.

Five-Year NOL Carryback. The ARRTA allows certain small businesses to elect a five-year carryback of net operating losses (NOLs) arising in 2008. Only qualified small businesses with average gross receipts of $15 million or less qualify for the longer carryback. Eligible businesses can elect to carryback 2008 NOLs three, four or five years. The new carryback treatment applies only to NOLs arising in tax years beginning or ending in 2008. Quick refunds apply if your business qualifies.

AMT/R&D Credits Election. Through 2009, the ARRTA temporarily extends the ability of businesses to accelerate the recognition of a portion of their accumulated AMT and research and development (R&D) credits instead of taking bonus depreciation. In effect, this allows an immediate cash refund for these credits.

Work Opportunity Tax Credit. Businesses can claim a Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) generally equal to 40 percent of the first $6,000 of wages paid to employees who are in one of nine targeted groups. The ARRTA adds (1) unemployed veterans and (2) disconnected youth to the list of targeted groups. The new categories apply to individuals who are hired and begin work in 2009 or 2010.

Cancellation of Debt Income. Under the ARRTA, eligible businesses can make an (irrevocable) election to recognize certain cancellation of debt income (CODI) ratably over a five-year period, beginning in 2014. The election applies to certain types of business debt repurchased by the business during 2009 and 2010.

S Corp Built-In Gain Period. Current law provides that if a C corporation converts to an S corporation the conversion is not a taxable event. However, the S corporation usually must hold its assets for 10 years after the conversion in order to avoid being taxed on any built-in gains that existed at the time of the conversion. For S corp sales of their C corp assets  in 2009 and 2010, however, the ARRTA temporarily shortens the holding period, from 10 to seven years, for sales of assets subject to the built-in gains tax imposed after such a conversion.

Qualified Small Business Stock. Pre-ARRTA law allowed noncorporate investors to exclude 50 percent of the gain from the sale of certain qualified small business stock (QSBS) held for more than five years. The ARRTA increases the exclusion to 75 percent for QSBS acquired after February 17, 2009 and before 2011. A "qualified small business" is one that does not have more than $50 million in assets and conducts an active trade or business.

Estimated Tax Payments. For individual taxpayers with income from small businesses, the ARRTA temporarily reduces 2009 required estimated tax payments for certain small businesses. Under the new law, 2009 quarterly estimated tax payments may now be based on 90 percent - instead of 100 percent - of the taxpayer's 2008 returns. For purposes of the new provision, a "small business" is one that does not employ more than an average of 500 people, and the individual's adjusted gross income is less than $500,000. The individual also must certify that at least 50 percent of the gross income shown on his or her return for the preceding tax year was income from a "small trade or business."

Energy Incentives. A number of the energy tax incentives in the ARRTA are targeted to businesses. The ARRTA:

• Extends and modifies the Code Sec. 45 renewable production tax credit.
• Expands the Code Sec. 48 energy investment credit to include qualified small wind energy property.
• Allows the Code Sec. 48 investment tax credit to be claimed in lieu of the Code Sec. 45 production tax credit.
• Removes the individual dollar limits on certain energy tax credits for qualified small wind energy property, qualified solar water heating property, and qualified geothermal heat pumps.

If you have any questions about the business incentives in the ARRTA, please contact our office.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 (ARRTA) is loaded with various tax incentives for individuals for 2009 and 2010. Among the individual tax breaks in the new law are incentives for homeownership, help for the unemployed and employed, as well as education assistance and tax breaks for taxpayers with children. This article provides an overview of the major individual tax incentives provided by the ARRTA.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 (ARRTA) is loaded with various tax incentives for individuals for 2009 and 2010. Among the individual tax breaks in the new law are incentives for homeownership, help for the unemployed and employed, as well as education assistance and tax breaks for taxpayers with children. This article provides an overview of the major individual tax incentives provided by the ARRTA.

Making Work Pay Credit. The Making Work Pay credit is a new but temporary refundable credit. Qualified taxpayers will either take the credit through a reduction in the amount of income tax withheld from their paycheck by allowing a credit against income tax in an amount equal to the lesser of 6.2 percent of the individual's earned income or $400 ($800 for married couples filing jointly), or in a lump sum when filing their income tax return for the tax year.

Note. Individuals who are self-employed may qualify for the credit as well, to the extent earnings from self-employment are taken into account in computing taxable income.

The credit applies retroactively to the start of 2009 and extends through 2010. Up to the maximum $400/$800 credit amount is allowed for each year.  The credit begins to phase out for individuals with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) exceeding $75,000 ($150,000 in the case of married couples filing jointly). The credit will be phased out at a rate of 2 percent above the MAGI limits.

$250 Economic Recovery Payment. The ARRTA also provides a one-time payment of $250 to individuals on a fixed income, including railroad retirement beneficiaries, Social Security recipients, disabled veterans, as well as retired government workers who are not eligible for Social Security benefits. The $250 payment will reduce the individual's otherwise allowable Making Work Pay credit to which they may be entitled. This payment will only be made in 2009, likely around mid-year.

New Car Deduction. Both itemizers and non-itemizers can take advantage of a new but temporary above-the-line deduction for state and local sales taxes or excise taxes paid on the purchase of a new (qualifying) motor vehicle. Both domestic and foreign vehicles qualify as well as motor homes, SUVs, light trucks and motorcycles weighing no more than 8,500 gross pounds.

The deduction is allowed in computing AMT, but is not available to taxpayers who elect to deduct state and local sales and use taxes in lieu of income taxes as an itemized deduction. The deduction begins to phase-out for taxpayers with adjusted gross income (AGI) exceeding $125,000 ($250,000 for joint filers). Additionally, deductible sales/excise taxes cannot exceed the portion of tax attributable to the first $49,500 of the purchase price.

Enhanced First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit. The ARRTA raises the maximum amount of the first-time homebuyer tax credit to $8,000 (up from $7,500) and extends the credit through December 1, 2009. The ARRTA also completely eliminates any repayment requirement for purchases made after January 1, 2009 if the taxpayer does not sell or otherwise dispose of the property within 36 months from the date of purchase. However, if the taxpayer does dispose of the residence within this time, pre-ARRTA rules for recapture apply, requiring the homebuyer to repay any credit amount received to the government over 15 years in equal installments. Purchases on or after April 9, 2008 and before January 1, 2009 are still governed by the original first-time homebuyer tax credit rules enacted last year in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008.

Education Credit. The ARRTA temporarily enhances and expands the Hope education tax credit (renaming it the American Opportunity education tax credit) for 2009 and 2010. The credit is increased in amount, to a maximum of $2,500 per year and extended to all four years of college education. Additionally, the credit is subject to more generous phase-out levels of $80,000 of AGI for individuals and $160,000 for joint filers. For 2009 and 2010, up to 40 percent of the American Opportunity credit is refundable.

Qualified Tuition Programs ("529 plans"). Distributions from qualified tuition programs (also known as "529 plans") used to pay a beneficiary's qualified higher education expenses are tax-free. For 2009 and 2010, ARRTA allows beneficiaries to use distributions from QTPs to pay for computers, laptops and computer technology, including internet access.

Child Tax Credit. The ARRTA increases the refundable portion of the child tax credit for both 2009 and 2010. For 2009 and 2010, the child tax credit is refundable to the extent of 15 percent of the taxpayer's earned income in excess of $3,000.

Enhanced Earned Income Tax Credit. For 2009 and 2010, the ARRTA temporarily increases the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for working families with three or more children. The new law (1) increases the credit to 45 percent of a family's first $12,570 of earned income for families with three or more children and (2) adjusts the start of the EITC phase-out range upwards by $1,880 for joint filers, regardless of the number of children.

AMT Patch. The ARRTA boosts alternative minimum tax (AMT) exemption amounts for 2009. The new amounts are slightly higher than last year's exemptions but much higher than the amounts they had been set to revert to had this remedial provision not been passed.

The 2009 exemption amounts are:

• $46,700 for individuals and heads of household; and
• $70,950 for joint filers and surviving spouses.

The new law also provides that for 2009 nonrefundable personal credits may offset both regular tax and the AMT.

Partial Exclusion of Unemployment Benefits. The ARRTA temporarily excludes up to $2,400 of unemployment compensation from a recipient's gross income for 2009. Unemployment benefits are otherwise includible in a recipient's gross income for tax purposes. As such, any unemployment benefits over $2,400 in 2009 will be subject to federal income tax.

Increased Transit Benefits For Workers. Beginning in March 2009, and effective for 2009 and 2010, the ARRTA increases the income exclusion for transit passes and van pooling to $230 per month.

Energy Incentives. Code Sec. 25C provides a tax credit for energy efficient improvements made to a taxpayer's home. The ARRTA increases the Code Sec. 25C residential energy property credit to 30 percent (up from 10 percent), raises the maximum cap to a $1,500 aggregate amount for 2009 and 2010 installations, eliminates the pre-2008 $500 lifetime cap, and makes other modifications to the credit. Taxpayers can use the credit for insulation materials, exterior windows and doors, skylights, central air conditioning, and hot water boilers, among many other energy efficient improvements.

The ARRTA also removes the individual dollar caps under the Code Sec. 25D residential energy efficient property credit for solar hot water property, wind energy property and geothermal heat pumps. Moreover, if you are interested in an environmentally-friendly car, the ARRTA modifies the credit for plug-in electric vehicles, although they are not yet on the market.

If you have any questions about the individual tax incentives in the ARRTA, please contact our office.

Even though gas prices have gone down from their record highs six-months ago, many people are looking for ways to save on their energy costs. The Tax Code provides a number of energy tax incentives to encourage individuals and businesses to invest in energy-efficient property and also in alternative sources of energy. One of those incentives is the Code Sec. 25C residential energy property tax credit for individuals.

Even though gas prices have gone down from their record highs six-months ago, many people are looking for ways to save on their energy costs. The Tax Code provides a number of energy tax incentives to encourage individuals and businesses to invest in energy-efficient property and also in alternative sources of energy. One of those incentives is the Code Sec. 25C residential energy property tax credit for individuals.

Improvements

If you make an eligible energy-related improvement to your home, the expenditure may qualify for the Code Sec. 25C credit. Eligible improvements include:

• Insulation materials; 
• Exterior windows, including skylights;
• Exterior doors; 
• Metal roofs with special pigmented coatings (including certain asphalt roofs);
• Electric heat pump water heaters;
• Central air conditioners;
• Natural gas, propane or oil water heaters or furnaces;
• Hot water boilers;
• Stoves using renewable plant-derived fuel; and
• Advanced main air circulating fans.

 As you can see, the list of improvements is extensive. Moreover, the qualification of some types of improvements may not be readily apparent. For example, skylights and windows installed in a new location, not only replacement skylights and windows, appear to qualify for the credit. Another example is insulated garage door replacements, which qualify as exterior doors and, if sufficiently insulated, are an energy efficiency improvement.

ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Many products with the ENERGY STAR label qualify for the Code Sec. 25C credit. For example, ENERGY STAR labeled windows and skylights are eligible for the credit.  

Residence

To qualify for the credit, the improvement must be installed on, or in connection with, a dwelling unit located in the U.S. that is owned and used by you as your principal residence.  The Code Sec. 25C credit is only available for existing homes. It cannot be used for new homes (however, other tax incentives may apply to new homes).

Amount

First, you need to keep receipts of all your qualifying purchases. Second, if you made any qualifying purchases in 2005 or 2006, and you claimed some but not all of the credit, you can use the unused portion in 2009.

The Code Sec. 25C residential energy property credit is 10 percent of the amount paid up to certain maximums. The general lifetime maximum is $500 for qualifying improvements. There is a $200 maximum for qualifying windows. Taxpayers cannot carry forward the credit. Generally, the amount of the credit will be limited by the amount of any nonbusiness energy property credit taken in 2006 or 2007.

2009 only

You need to act soon to take advantage of the Code Sec. 25C tax credit. Last year, Congress reinstated the credit but only for qualified energy property placed in service in 2009. Unfortunately, if you installed qualifying property in 2008, you cannot claim the credit. The previous credit expired as to property placed in service after December 31, 2007.

If you are considering the purchase of energy improvement property in 2009, please contact our office. Don't miss out on this potentially valuable tax break. We can review the credit in more detail as it applies to your situation.

Happy New Year! As 2009 gets underway, and you prepare for the 2008 filing season, it's important not to overlook a number of valuable tax planning opportunities that apply right away to the 2009 tax year. Here are 10 considerations for tax planning as 2009 starts.

Happy New Year! As 2009 gets underway, and you prepare for the 2008 filing season, it's important not to overlook a number of valuable tax planning opportunities that apply right away to the 2009 tax year. Here are 10 considerations for tax planning as 2009 starts.

2009 is shaping up to be a tumultuous and pivotal year for taxes. If you have any questions on the tax strategies in this article, please contact our office. Remember, that as 2009 unfolds, other tax strategies may come into play depending on the size and scope of the expected economic stimulus plan under President Barack Obama. We will follow these developments and stand ready to advise our clients appropriately.  

1. Retirement account strategies

2008 has been a year in which many retirement savings accounts have been hit hard by the current stock market meltdown. Whether you are retired, about to retire, or many years away from those golden years, now is not the time to either panic or ignore taking action about the current economic collapse. Sticking to a plan balancing tax-deferred and taxable accounts with proper asset allocations based on your current position makes good sense, now more than ever. Recessions always end and not planning now for our cyclical markets would be a mistake. This office can recommend many strategies, depending upon your current circumstances.

Taxpayers can reduce their taxable income by contributing to a 401(k) or other salary reduction plan, or contributing to a traditional IRA. If you have a traditional IRA and are interested in converting to a Roth IRA, but are prohibited currently from contributing, get ready for 2010, when the income restrictions on converting to a Roth IRA disappear.

For seniors whose 401(k)s, IRAs and other qualified retirement savings have been hard hit by the stock market collapse, some relief is available in 2009. The new Worker, Retiree, and Employee Recovery Act of 2008 allows retirees to suspend required minimum distributions from these arrangements for 2009 so that they hopefully earn back some of their losses by keeping that money in their accounts.

2. Invest in education

The tax law encourages individuals to save for education costs through qualified tuition programs (QTP) (also called 529 plans), Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) as well as providing for credits and deductions. The escalating price tag of education means it is never too early to start saving and understanding all your options is vital.

Education does not stop, however, once you pass college age; it is a continuing adventure in today's changing workplace. No better time than in challenging financial times to realize the value of additional education and job training. The tax law should not be forgotten as a partner in this pursuit:

-- An "above-the-line" deduction is available for qualifying tuition and related expenses paid for enrollment or attendance by the taxpayer or the taxpayer's spouse or dependent at any accredited post-secondary institution. The maximum deductible amount is $4,000 for taxpayers with AGI at or below $65,000 ($130,000 for joint filers).

-- A taxpayer's own education expenses may be deducted as a business expense (even if they lead to a degree) if the education: (1) maintains or improves a skill required in the taxpayer's employment or other trade or business or (2) meets the express requirements of the taxpayer's employer, laws or regulations, imposed as a condition to the taxpayer's retention of an established employment relationship, status, or rate of compensation.

-- Up to $5,250 of payments received by an employee from an employer for tuition, fees, books, supplies, etc., under an employer's educational assistance program may be excluded from gross income. These courses may only be covered if they involve the employer's business or are required as part of a degree program.

3. Understand the implications of life changes

Irrespective of what economic or tax law changes are taking place on the national level, what changes in your personal life of course is what's most important to you. Often, there can be many tax benefits and pitfalls associated with these "life changes." Perhaps 2009 is the year that you plan to get married, expect the birth of a child, change jobs, retire, move, start or end a business, or finalize a divorce. Each of these life changes has tax implications - some good, some not so good or maybe both - that you should understand and address.

4. Install energy saving property

Individuals and businesses can take advantage of a host of energy tax incentives in 2009. The energy tax incentive that benefits most individuals is the Code Sec. 25C residential energy property credit, which Congress recently reinstated for 2009. The Code Sec. 25C credit is worth up to $500 and is available for nonbusiness energy property that meets the requirements for qualified energy efficiency improvements or qualified residential energy property expenses. For example, eligible improvements include insulation materials and exterior windows, such as exterior doors and skylights.

Additionally, many energy incentives have been extended through 2009 to encourage businesses to produce renewable energy or make energy saving improvements. The Code Sec. 25D residential energy efficient property credit is extended through December 31, 2016. Taxpayers can also use the Code Sec. 25D credit to offset alternative minimum tax liability. Congress also extended the credit for producing electricity from qualified wind facilities through December 31, 2009, and the credits for producing electricity through biomass and other qualifying renewable sources through September 30, 2011.

5. Take advantage of lower rates on long-term capital gains and dividends

Under current law, taxpayers in the 10 and 15 percent tax brackets benefit from a zero percent long-term capital gains tax rate in 2009 (through 2010). The zero percent tax rate also applies to qualifying dividends paid to taxpayers in the 10 and 15 percent tax brackets. Taxpayers in higher brackets are subject to a maximum rate of 15 percent on long-term capital gains and qualifying dividends in 2009 (through 2010). However, the rates could go up in light of the current economic crisis. Higher rates may come either in mid-year 2009 or not until 2011. Investors should keep these contingencies in mind in connection with ongoing buy and sell strategies, along with carefully keeping track of any capital loss carryforwards that may be available from recent stock transactions in 2008.

6. Take advantage of foreclosure help

When a lender forecloses on a home, sells the property for less than the borrower's outstanding mortgage, and forgives all or part of the unpaid mortgage debt, the homeowner recognizes cancellation of debt income, which is taxable income to the individual under the Tax Code. Through December 31, 2009, the tax law excludes from income tax discharges of up to $2 million ($1 million for a married taxpayer filing a separate return) of debt if the debt is secured by a principal residence and it was incurred in the acquisition, construction or substantial improvement of the principal residence.

In addition, the IRS is expediting requests for subordination or discharge of tax liens on properties that can otherwise be saved by mortgage refinancing or short sales. Many distressed homeowners overlook this potentially valuable help.

7. Consider the first-time homebuyer tax credit

If instead of being on the foreclosure end of the housing crisis, you are looking to take advantage of lower housing prices, consider the tax advantages of the new first-time homebuyer tax credit. For those facing foreclosure, too, this new tax credit may help sell their homes in a short sale situation that may salvage more of their equity.

The first-time homebuyer tax credit may be one of the biggest tax breaks now available for homebuyers, but it is only temporary. The first-time homebuyer tax credit is a temporary, refundable tax credit equal to 10 percent of the purchase price of a home, up to $7,500 ($3,750 for married individuals filing separately). The credit is effective for homes purchased on or after April 9, 2008 and before July 1, 2009. It phases out for individual taxpayers with adjusted gross income exceeding $75,000 ($150,000 for joint filers). The credit must be repaid in equal installments over a 15-year period. However, the repayments are interest-free. As mortgage money begins to be freed up and housing prices stabilize, the first-time homebuyer tax credit promises to help buyers swing a purchase and sellers swing the sale.

8. Prepare for the reduced homesale exclusion

For those with a vacation home or rental property, strategies for the eventual sale of those properties need to be revised due to a change in the law. Beginning in 2009, homeowners will not be able to exclude from gross income gain from the sale of a principal residence attributable to periods that the home was not used as a "principal residence" ("non-qualifying" use). This rule especially impacts owners of vacation homes or rental properties who later make those properties their permanent residence.

The new rule, which was part of the 2008 Housing Act, applies to home sales that occur after December 31, 2008, but is based only on non-qualified use periods that begin on or after January 1, 2009. The 2008 Housing Act provides the formula for determining how excluded appreciation attributable to nonqualified use is calculated. Gain will be allocated to periods of nonqualified use on a pro-rata basis under the law.

9. Make a business contribution to charity

Businesses with excess inventory may be eligible for a tax deduction if they donate books, computers or food. Through December 31, 2009, qualifying businesses can take advantage of enhanced deductions for contributions of food to a charitable organization, or books to a school and computer equipment to a school or library. The business must operate as a C corporation for donations of computers and books. A C corporation may also deduct basis plus half of the appreciation attributable to inventory (or stock in trade or real or depreciable personal property used in their trade or business) donated to a charitable organization for use in caring for the ill, needy or infants.  A C corporation may also deduct basis plus half of the appreciation when it donates scientific property to a college, university or tax-exempt research institution for use in research.

Additionally, S corporation shareholders are also eligible for special tax treatment for charitable contributions of qualifying property through 2009. For businesses that are looking for ways to give back to their communities, yet preserve their bottom lines during tough economic times, these charitable contribution opportunities might prove a perfect fit.

10. Don't forget the tax "extenders"

Many popular individual and business tax incentives, referred to as "extenders" because Congress typically renews them every year or two, are available through 2009. For 2009, individuals can again take advantage of the state and local sales tax deduction (in lieu of the state and local income tax deduction), the $500 additional standard deduction for real property taxes ($1,000 for joint filers), and the higher education tuition deduction. Teachers and other education professionals can also deduct, above the line, up to $250 of certain out-of-pocket classroom expenses in 2009.

Business tax incentives extended through 2009 include the research tax credit, the New Markets Tax Credit, the deduction for certain charitable contributions, and the 15-year cost recovery period for qualifying restaurant and leasehold improvements.

Please contact our office if you have any questions about these 10 tax planning areas. We'll be happy to discuss them in more detail and craft a tax strategy that fits you.

You have carefully considered the multitude of complex tax and financial factors, run the numbers, meet the eligibility requirements, and are ready to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. The question now remains, however, how do you convert your IRA?

You have carefully considered the multitude of complex tax and financial factors, run the numbers, meet the eligibility requirements, and are ready to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. The question now remains, however, how do you convert your IRA?

Conversion basics

A conversion is a penalty-free taxable transfer of amounts from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. You can convert part or all of the money in your regular IRA to a Roth. When you convert your traditional IRA to a Roth, you will have to pay income tax on the amount converted. However, a traditional IRA may be converted (or rolled over) penalty-free to a Roth IRA as long as you meet the requirements for conversion, including adjusted gross income (AGI) limits in effect until 2010. You should have funds outside the IRA to pay the income tax due on the conversion, rather than taking a withdrawal from your traditional IRA to pay for it - those withdrawals are subject to an early withdrawal penalty and they cannot be put back at a later time to continue to accumulate in the tax-free environment of an IRA.

Big news for 2010 and beyond

Beginning in 2010, you can convert from a traditional to a Roth IRA with no income level or filing status restrictions. For 2008, Roth IRAs are available for individuals with a maximum adjusted gross income of $116,000 ($169,000 for joint filers and heads of household). These income limits have prevented many individuals from establishing or converting to a Roth IRA. Not only is the income limitation eliminated after 2009, taxpayers who convert to a Roth IRA in 2010 can recognize the conversion amount in adjusted gross income (AGI) ratably over two years, in 2011 and 2012.

Example. You have $14,000 in a traditional IRA, which consists of deductible contributions and earnings. In 2010, you convert the entire amount to a Roth IRA. You do not take any distributions in 2010. As a result of the conversion, you have $14,000 in gross income. Unless you elect otherwise, $7,000 of the income is included in income in 2011 and $7,000 is included in income in 2012.

Conversion methods

There are three ways to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth. Generally, the conversion is treated as a rollover, regardless of the conversion method used. Any converted amount is treated as a distribution from the traditional IRA and a qualified rollover contribution to the Roth IRA, even if the conversion is accomplished by means of a trustee-to-trustee transfer or a transfer between IRAs of the same trustee.

1. Rollover conversion. Amounts distributed from a traditional IRA may be contributed (i.e. rolled over) to a Roth IRA within 60 days after the distribution.

2. Trustee-to-trustee transfer. Amounts in a traditional IRA may be transferred in a trustee-to-trustee transfer from the trustee of the traditional IRA to the trustee of the Roth IRA. The financial institution holding your traditional IRA assets will provide directions on how to transfer those assets to a Roth IRA that is maintained with another financial institution.

3. Internal conversions. Amounts in a traditional IRA may be transferred to a Roth IRA maintained by the same trustee. Conversions made with the same trustee can be made by redesignating the traditional IRA as a Roth IRA, in lieu of opening a new account or issuing a new contract. As with the trustee-to-trustee transfer, the financial institution holding the traditional IRA assets will provide instructions on how to transfer those assets to a Roth IRA. The transaction may be simpler in this instance because the transfer occurs within the same financial institution.

Failed conversions

A failed conversion has significant negative tax consequences, and generally occurs when you do not meet the Roth IRA eligibility or statutory requirements; for example, your AGI exceeds the limit in the year of conversion or you are married filing separately (note: as mentioned, the AGI limit for Roth IRAs will no longer be applicable beginning in 2010).

A failed conversion is treated as a distribution from your traditional IRA and an improper contribution to a Roth IRA. Not only will the amount of the distribution be subject to ordinary income tax in the year of the failed conversion, it will also be subject to the 10 percent early withdrawal penalty for individuals under age 59 1/2, (unless an exception applies). Moreover, the Tax Code imposes an additional 6 percent excise tax each year on the excess contribution amount made to a Roth IRA until the excess is withdrawn.

Caution - financial institutions make mistakes

The brokerage firm, bank, or other financial institution that will process your IRA to Roth IRA conversion can make mistakes, and their administrative errors will generally cost you. It is imperative that you understand the process, the paperwork, and what is required of you and your financial institution to ensure the conversion of your IRA properly and timely. Our office can apprise you of what to look out for and what to require of the financial institutions you will deal with during the process.

Determining whether to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA can be a complicated decision to make, as it raises a host of tax and financial questions. Our office can help you determine not only whether conversion is right for you, but what method is best for you, too.

In a period of declining stock prices, tax benefits may not be foremost in your mind. Nevertheless, you may be able to salvage some benefits from the drop in values. Not only can you reduce your taxable income, but you may be able to move out of unfavorable investments and shift your portfolio to investments that you are more comfortable with.

In a period of declining stock prices, tax benefits may not be foremost in your mind. Nevertheless, you may be able to salvage some benefits from the drop in values. Not only can you reduce your taxable income, but you may be able to move out of unfavorable investments and shift your portfolio to investments that you are more comfortable with.

First, you should keep in mind that gain and loss on a sale of stock or mutual fund shares depends on the fair market value of the shares when sold or disposed of, compared to the cost basis of the stock. Your investments may have lost substantial value over recent periods. Nevertheless, if the stock's value when sold is higher than the basis, you still have a gain.

Example. You purchased X Corp stock in 2004, when it cost $5. At the end of 2007, the stock is worth $12. In November, 2008, you sell the stock when its value is $8 a share. Even though your investment has declined in value by 33 percent, you have a gain of $3 a share on the sale ($8 sales price less $5 cost).

The same tax-basis situation that may cause capital gain on the sale of shares that have dropped significantly in value over the past year also is causing many owners of mutual funds that have declined in value to be surprised with a capital gains distribution notice from their fund managers. If you own the mutual fund shares at the time of the capital gain distribution date, you must recognize the gain. Of course, that gain may be netted against your losses from stock or other capital asset sales.

If you realize a profit on a stock sale, the long-term capital gains tax is a maximum of 15 percent, while taxes on wages and other ordinary income can be taxed as high as 35 percent. For taxpayers in the 10 or 15 percent rate brackets, there is no capital gains tax. These reduced capital gains rates are scheduled to expire after 2010. Short-term capital gains (investments held for one year or less) are taxed at ordinary income rates up to 35 percent.

Capital losses can offset capital gains and ordinary income dollar for dollar. Capital gains can be offset in full, whether short-term or long-term. Ordinary income can be offset up to $3,000. If net capital losses (capital losses minus capital gains) exceed $3,000, the excess can be carried forward without limit and can offset capital gains and $3,000 of ordinary income in each subsequent year.

Because a capital loss can offset income taxed at the 35 percent rate, it can be advantageous to sell stock that yields capital gains in one year, while delaying the realization of capital losses until the following year.

Example. Mary has two assets. One asset would yield a $6,000 long-term capital loss when sold. The other would yield a $6,000 long-term capital gain. If Mary sells both assets in the same year, she has a net capital gain of zero. If she realizes the gain in 2008 and the loss in 2009 (by selling the assets in different years), she will increase her 2008 taxes by a maximum of $900 ($6,000 X 15 percent), but will reduce her taxes in 2009 and 2010 by a maximum of $2,100 ($3,000 X 35 percent X 2 years). She will reduce her taxes by $1,200 merely by shifting the timing of the sales.

Worthless securities. You can write off the cost of totally worthless securities as a capital loss, but cannot take a deduction for securities that have lost most of their value from stock market fluctuations or other causes if you still own them and they still have a recognizable value. You do not have to sell, abandon or dispose of the security to take a worthless stock deduction, but worthlessness must be evidenced by an identifiable event. An event includes cessation of the corporation's business, commencement of liquidation, actual foreclosure and bankruptcy. Securities become worthless if the corporation becomes worthless, even if the corporation has not dissolved, liquidated or ceased doing business.

If you would like to discuss these issues, please contact our office. We can help you consider your options.

Dear Client:

As 2009 draws to a close, there is still time to reduce your 2009 tax bill and plan ahead for 2010. This letter highlights several potential tax -saving opportunities for you to consider. If we have not yet met with you to discuss your year end tax position, we would be happy to meet with you to discuss specific strategies you may still consider.

Basic Numbers You Need To Know

Because many tax benefits are tied to or limited by adjusted gross income (AGI)—IRA deductions, for example—a key aspect of tax planning is to estimate both your 2009 and 2010 AGI. Also, when considering whether to accelerate or defer income or deductions, you should be aware of the impact this action may have on your AGI and your ability to maximize itemized deductions that are tied to AGI. Your 2008 tax return and your 2009 pay stubs and other income- and deduction-related materials are a good starting point for estimating your AGI.

Another important number is your “ tax bracket,” i.e., the rate at which your last dollar of income is taxed. The tax rates for 2009 are 10%, 15%, 25%, 28%, 31%, and 35%. Although tax brackets are indexed for inflation, if your income increases faster than the inflation adjustment, you may be pushed into a higher bracket. If so, your potential benefit from any tax -saving opportunity is increased (as is the cost of overlooking that opportunity).

IRA, Retirement Savings Rules for 2009

Tax -saving opportunities continue for retirement planning due to the availability of Roth IRAs, changes that make regular IRAs more attractive, and other retirement savings incentives. As discussed herein, a few more changes began in 2009 .

Traditional IRAs: Individuals who are not active participants in an employer pension plan may make deductible contributions to an IRA. The annual deductible contribution limit for an IRA for 2009 is $5,000. For 2009 , a $1,000 “catch-up” contribution is allowed for taxpayers age 50 or older by the close of the taxable year, making the total limit $6,000 for these individuals . Individuals who are active participants in an employer pension plan also may make deductible contributions to an IRA, but their contributions are limited in amount depending on their AGI. For 2009 , the AGI phase-out range for deductibility of IRA contributions is between $55,000 and $65,000 of modified AGI for single persons (including heads of households), and between $89,000 and $109,000 of modified AGI for married filing jointly. Above these ranges, no deduction is allowed.

In addition, an individual will not be considered an “active participant” in an employer plan simply because the individual’s spouse is an active participant for part of a plan year. Thus, you may be able to take the full deduction for an IRA contribution regardless of whether your spouse is covered by a plan at work, subject to a phase-out if your joint modified AGI is $166,000 to $176,000 for 2009 . Above this range, no deduction is allowed.

Spousal IRA: If an individual files a joint return and has less compensation than his or her spouse, the IRA contribution is limited to the lesser of $5,000 for 2009 plus age 50 catch-up contributions, or the total compensation of both spouses reduced by the other spouse’s IRA contributions (traditional and Roth).

Roth IRA: This type of IRA permits nondeductible contributions of up to $5,000 a year. Earnings grow tax -free, and distributions are tax -free provided no distributions are made until more than five years after the first contribution and the individual has reached age 591/2. Distributions may be made earlier on account of the individual’s disability or death. The maximum contribution is phased out for persons with an AGI above certain amounts: $166,000 to $176,000 for married filing jointly, and $105,000 to $120,000 for single taxpayers (including heads of households); and between $0 and $10,000 for married filing separately who lived with the spouse during the year.

Roth IRA Conversion Rule: Funds in a traditional IRA (including SEPs and SIMPLE IRAs), §401(a) qualified retirement plan, §403(b) tax -sheltered annuity or §457 government plan may be rolled over into a Roth IRA. Such a rollover, however, is treated as a taxable event, and you will pay tax on the amount converted. No penalties will apply if all the requirements for such a transfer are satisfied.

A taxpayer’s AGI (whether married filing jointly or single) is limited to $100,000 to make such a conversion and the taxpayer must not be a married individual filing a separate return. The AGI limitation does not apply to conversions from a Roth designated account in a §401 or §403(b) plan. Beginning in 2010, the $100,000 income limit on Roth IRA conversions is repealed, and taxpayers will be able to make Roth IRA conversions without regard to their AGI. If you are eligible to convert to a Roth IRA in 2010, you will have the option of spreading the income ratably over two taxable years (2011 and 2012). This is a complicated calculation and we should meet to determine what your best options are and we would be happy to review these with you.

401(k) Contribution: The §401(k) elective deferral limit is $16,500 for 2009 . If your §401(k) plan has been amended to allow for catch-up contributions for 2009 and you will be 50 years old by December 31, 2009 , you may contribute an additional $5,500 to your §401(k) account, for a total maximum contribution of $22,000 ($16,500 in regular contributions plus $5,500 in catch-up contributions).

SIMPLE Plan Contribution: The SIMPLE plan deferral limit is $11,500 for 2009 . If your SIMPLE plan has been amended to allow for catch-up contributions for 2009 and you will be 50 years old by December 31, 2009 , you may contribute an additional $2,500.

Catch-Up Contributions for Other Plans: If you will be 50 years old by December 31, 2009 , you may contribute an additional $5,500 to your §403(b) plan, SEP or eligible §457 government plan.

Saver’s Credit: A nonrefundable tax credit is available based on the qualified retirement savings contributions to an employer plan made by an eligible individual. For 2009 , only taxpayers filing joint returns with AGI of $55,500 or less, head of household returns with AGI of $41,625 or less, or single returns (or separate returns filed by married taxpayers) with AGI of $27,750 or less, are eligible for the credit. The amount of the credit is equal to the applicable percentage (10% to 50%, based on filing status and AGI) of qualified retirement savings contributions up to $2,000.

Required Minimum Distributions: For 2009 only, taxpayers may waive taking their required minimum distribution. Thus, for 2009 , no minimum distribution is required from IRAs or defined contribution plans (§401(k) plans, §403(a) and (b) annuity plans, and §457(b) plans that are maintained by a governmental employer). As a result, a person who attains age 701/2 in 2009 is not required to take a distribution by April 1, 2010. This provision will help keep your AGI low as your taxable income will not have to absorb a distribution from your retirement account.

Maximize Retirement Savings: In many cases, employers will require you to set your 2010 retirement contribution levels before January 2010. You may want to increase your contribution to lower your AGI in order to take advantage of some of the tax breaks described above. In addition, maximizing your contribution is generally a good tax -saving move.

Deferring Income to 2010

If you expect your AGI to be higher in 2009 than in 2010, or if you anticipate being in the same or a higher tax bracket in 2009 , you may benefit by deferring income into 2010. Deferring income will be advantageous so long as the deferral does not bump your income to the next bracket. Deferring income could be disadvantageous if your deferred income is subject to §409A, thus making the income includible in gross income and subject to additional tax . Some ways to defer income include:

Delay Billing: If you are self-employed, delay year-end billing to clients so that payments will not be received until 2010.

Interest and Dividends: Interest income earned on Treasury securities and bank certificates of deposit with maturities of one year or less is not includible in income until received. To defer interest income, consider buying short-term bonds or certificates that will not mature until next year. If you have control as to when dividends are paid, arrange to have them paid to you after the end of the year.

Accelerating Income into 2009

In limited circumstances, you may benefit by accelerating income into 2009 . For example, you may anticipate being in a higher tax bracket in 2010, or perhaps you will need additional income in order to take advantage of an offsetting deduction or credit that will not be available to you in future tax years. Note however that accelerating income into 2009 will be disadvantageous if you expect to be in the same or lower tax bracket for 2010. In any event, before you decide to implement this strategy, we should “crunch the numbers.”

If accelerating income will be beneficial, here are some ways to accomplish this:

Accelerate Collection of Accounts Receivable: If you are self-employed and report income and expenses on a cash basis, issue bills and attempt collection before the end of 2009 . Also see if some of your clients or customers might be willing to pay for January 2010 goods or services in advance. Any income received using these steps will shift income from 2010 to 2009 .

Year-End Bonuses: If your employer generally pays year-end bonuses after the end of the current year, ask to have your bonus paid to you before the beginning of 2010.

Retirement Plan Distributions: If you are over age 591/2 and you participate in an employer retirement plan or have an IRA, consider making any taxable withdrawals before 2010.

You may also want to consider making a Roth IRA rollover distribution, as discussed above.

Deduction Planning

Individual Deductions

Deduction timing is also an important element of year-end tax planning . Deduction planning is complex, however, due to factors such as AGI levels and filing status. If you are a cash-method taxpayer, remember to keep the following in mind:

Deduction in Year Paid: An expense is only deductible in the year in which it is actually paid.

Payment by Check: Date checks before the end of the year and mail them before January 1, 2010.

Promise to Pay: A promise to pay or providing a note does not permit you to deduct the expense. But you can take a deduction if you pay with money borrowed from a third party. Hence, if you pay by credit card in 2009 , you can take the deduction even though you won’t pay your credit card bill until 2010.

AGI Limits: The AGI limits on itemized deductions affect deduction planning . Normally, overall itemized deductions are reduced by 3% of the AGI exceeding $166,800 ($83,400 if married filing separately). For 2009 , the reduction is reduced by two-thirds of what it otherwise would be. For 2010, the overall limitation on itemized deductions is terminated. In addition, certain deductions may be claimed only if they exceed a percentage of AGI: 7.5% for medical expenses, 2% for miscellaneous itemized deductions, and 10% for casualty losses.

Standard Deduction Planning : Deduction planning is also affected by the standard deduction. For 2009 returns, the standard deduction is $11,400 for married taxpayers filing jointly, $5,700 for single taxpayers, $8,350 for heads of households, and $5,700 for married taxpayers filing separately. If your itemized deductions are relatively constant and are close to the standard deduction amount, you will obtain little or no benefit from itemizing your deductions each year. But simply taking the standard deduction each year means you lose the benefit of your itemized deductions. To maximize the benefits of both the standard deduction and itemized deductions, consider adjusting the timing of your deductible expenses so that they are higher in one year and lower in the following year. You can do this by paying in 2009 deductible expenses, such as mortgage interest due in January 2010. For 2009 , taxpayers who do not itemize their deductions can deduct up to $1,000 if filing jointly or up to $500 for single taxpayers for real property taxes. This benefit is in the form of an additional standard deduction. If by the end of 2009 , you purchase an eligible motor vehicle and have an AGI below a threshold amount, the sales tax paid on the vehicle (up to a purchase price of $49,500) can be deducted as part of your standard deduction.

Medical Expenses: Medical expenses, including amounts paid as health insurance premiums, are deductible only to the extent that they exceed 7.5% of AGI. Consider bunching medical expenses into years when your AGI is lower.

State Taxes: If you anticipate a state income tax liability for 2009 and plan to make an estimated payment, consider making the payment before the end of 2009 . Note that in 2009 (but not in 2010), you can elect to deduct as an itemized deduction state and local sales taxes instead of state and local income taxes.

Charitable Contributions: Consider making your charitable contributions at the end of the year. This will give you use of the money during the year and simultaneously permit you to claim a deduction for that year. You can use a credit card to charge donations in 2009 even though you will not pay the bill until 2010. A mere pledge to make a donation is not deductible, however, unless it is paid by the end of the year. Note, however, for claimed donations of cars, boats and airplanes of more than $500, the amount available as a deduction will significantly depend on what the charity does with the donated property, not just the fair market value of the donated property. If the organization sells the property without any significant intervening use or material improvement to the property, the amount of the charitable contribution deduction cannot exceed the gross proceeds received from the sale.

To avoid capital gains, you may want to consider giving appreciated property to charity.

Regarding charitable contributions please remember the following rules: (1) no deduction is allowed for charitable contributions of clothing and household items if such items are not in good used condition or better; (2) the IRS may deny a deduction for any item with minimal monetary value; and (3) the restrictions in (1) and (2) do not apply to the contribution of any single clothing or household item for which a deduction of $500 or more is claimed if the taxpayer includes a qualified appraisal with his or her return. Charitable contributions of money, regardless of the amount, will be denied a deduction, unless the donor maintains a cancelled check, bank record, or receipt from the donee organization showing the name of the donee organization, and the date and amount of the contribution.

The ability to distribute to charity up to $100,000 from a traditional or Roth IRA maintained for an individual whose has reached age 701/2 continues into 2009 , but ends at the close of 2009 . Ordinarily, such distributions would be taxable to the individual, who would not be able to offset the income fully because of the percentage limitations on charitable contribution deductions.

Business Deductions

Self-Employed Health Insurance Premiums: Self-employed individuals are allowed to claim 100% of the amount paid during the taxable year for insurance that constitutes medical care for themselves, their spouses and dependents as an above-the-line deduction, without regard to the 7.5% of AGI floor.

Equipment Purchases: If you are in business and purchase equipment, you may make a “Section 179 Election,” which allows you to expense (i.e., currently deduct) otherwise depreciable business property. For 2009 , thanks to Congressional legislation, you may elect to expense up to $250,000 of equipment costs (with a phase-out for purchases in excess of $800,000) if the asset was placed in service during 2009 . In 2010, these dollar amounts are reduced to $125,000 and $500,000 (subject to inflation adjustments), so 2009 is the year to put property into your business to take advantage of the increased dollar amounts.

In addition, careful timing of equipment purchases can result in favorable depreciation deductions in 2009 . In general, under the “half-year convention,” you may deduct six months worth of depreciation for equipment that is placed in service on or before the last day of the tax year. (If more than 40% of the cost of all personal property placed in service occurs during the last quarter of the year, however, a “mid-quarter convention” applies, which lowers your depreciation deduction.) A popular strategy in recent years is to purchase a vehicle for business purposes that exceeds the depreciation limits set by statute (i.e., a vehicle rated over 6,000 pounds). Doing so would not subject the purchase to the statutory dollar limit, $2,960 for 2009 ; $3,060 in the case of vans and trucks (if the vehicle qualifies for the “50% bonus depreciation” in effect in 2009 , the dollar amounts are increased by $8,000). Therefore, the vehicle would qualify for the full equipment expensing dollar amount. However, for SUVs (rated between 6,000 and 14,000 pounds gross vehicle weight) the expensing amount is limited to $25,000.

NOL Carryback Period: If your business suffers net operating losses for 2009 , you generally apply those losses against taxable income going back two tax years. Thus, for example, the loss could be used to reduce taxable income—and thus generate tax refunds—for tax years as far back as 2007. Certain “eligible losses” can be carried back three years; farming losses and qualified disaster losses (for losses arising in taxable years beginning after 2007 in connection with disasters declared after December 31, 2007) can be carried back five years.

Under a special law enacted in 2008, “eligible small businesses” can carryback “2008 net operating losses” up to five years. If you own a business that began a fiscal year in late-2008 and is still ongoing into late- 2009 , you may be able to create or increase an NOL to carry back three, four or five years to offset taxes previously paid. One manner of doing this would be to invest in new property or equipment eligible for §179 expense to increase deductions.

Bonus Depreciation: For 2009 , taxpayers meeting certain criteria can claim a 50% bonus depreciation allowance. In order to claim the additional depreciation, the following criteria must be met: (1) the original use of the property must begin with the taxpayer after December 31, 2007, and before January 1, 2010; (2) the property must be acquired by the taxpayer in 2008 or 2009 , but only if no written binding contract for the acquisition was in effect before January 1, 2008, or acquired by the taxpayer pursuant to a written binding contract entered into in 2008 or 2009 ; (3) the property must be placed in service after 2008 and before 2010 (or, in the case of long production period property (10 years or longer) or specified aircraft, January 1, 2011). Bonus depreciation is also allowed for machinery and equipment used exclusively to collect, distribute, or recycle qualified reuse and recyclable materials and qualified disaster assistance property.

Education and Child Tax Benefits

Child Tax Credit: A tax credit of $1,000 per qualifying child under the age of 17 is available on this year’s return. In order to qualify for 2009 , the taxpayer must be allowed a dependency deduction for the qualifying child. One new qualifying determination is that the qualifying child must be younger than you. The credit is phased out at a rate of $50 for each $1,000 (or fraction of $1,000) of modified AGI exceeding the following amounts: $110,000 for married filing jointly; $55,000 for married filing separately; and $75,000 for all other taxpayers. A portion of the credit may be refundable. For 2009 , the threshold earned income level to determine refundability is $3,000.

Credit for Adoption Expenses: For 2009 , the adoption credit limitation is $12,150 of aggregate expenditures for each child, except that the credit for an adoption of a child with special needs is deemed to be $12,150 regardless of the amount of expenses. The credit ratably phases out for taxpayers whose income is between $182,180 and $222,180.

HOPE Credit and Lifetime Learning Credit: Significant changes are in place for the HOPE credit for 2009 , including a name change to the American Opportunity Tax Credit. The maximum HOPE credit for 2009 is $2,500 (100% on the first $2,000, plus 25% of the next $2,000) for qualified tuition and fees paid on behalf of a student (i.e., the taxpayer, the taxpayer’s spouse, or a dependent) who is enrolled on at least a half-time basis. The credit is available for the first four years (rather than two as in past years) of the student’s post-secondary education. For 2009 , the credit is phased out at modified AGI levels between $160,000 and $180,000 for joint filers, and between $80,000 and $90,000 for other taxpayers. Forty percent of the HOPE credit is refundable, which means that you can receive up to $1,000 even if you owe no taxes. The term “qualified tuition and related expenses” has been expanded to include expenditures for “course materials” (books, supplies, and equipment needed for a course of study whether or not the materials are purchased from the educational institution as a condition of enrollment or attendance).

The Lifetime Learning credit maximum in 2009 is $2,000 (20% of qualified tuition and fees up to $10,000). A student need not be enrolled on at least a half-time basis so long as he or she is taking post-secondary classes to acquire or improve job skills. As with the HOPE credit, eligible students include the taxpayer, the taxpayer’s spouse, or a dependent. For 2009 , the Lifetime Learning credit is phased out at modified AGI levels between $100,000 and $120,000 for joint filers, and between $50,000 and $60,000 for single taxpayers.

Coverdell Education Savings Account: For 2009 , the aggregate annual contribution limit to a Coverdell education savings account is $2,000 per designated beneficiary of the account. This limit is phased out for individual contributors with modified AGI between $95,000 and $110,000 and joint filers with modified AGI between $190,000 and $220,000. The contributions to the account are nondeductible but the earnings grow tax -free.

Student Loan Interest: You may be eligible for an above-the-line deduction for student loan interest paid on any “qualified education loan.” The maximum deduction is $2,500. The deduction for 2009 is phased out at a modified AGI level between $120,000 and $150,000 for joint filers, and between $60,000 and $75,000 for individual taxpayers.

Kiddie Tax : For 2009 , the kiddie tax applies to: (1) children under 18; (2) 18-year old children who have unearned income in excess of the threshold amount, do not file a joint return and who have earned income, if any, that does not exceed one-half of the amount of the child’s support; and (3) children between the ages of 19 and 23 and if, in addition to the above rules, they are full-time students. For 2009 , the kiddie tax threshold amount is $1,900.

Energy Incentives

Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit: For 2009 , a credit is available for purchases of motor vehicles powered by certain alternative fuels. The dollar amount of the credit depends on fuel savings and weight of the vehicle. The most popular vehicles subject to the credit are hybrids. However, when a particular manufacturer sells in the United States its 60,000th of the particular hybrid, a phaseout period kicks in. The phaseout will reduce the credit from fully available to nothing being available. Due to this limitation, many popular hybrids have been phased out from the credit. Credits are also available for lean-burn technology vehicles (subject to the same phaseout), qualified fuel cell motor vehicles, qualified alternative fuel motor vehicles, and qualified plug-in electric-drive motor vehicles. If you have an interest in purchasing a hybrid vehicle before the end of 2009 , please contact me and I can calculate the allowable credit. The amount of the credit could affect your decision on which vehicle to purchase.

Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit: Tax incentives are available to taxpayers who install certain energy efficient property, such as photovoltaic, solar water heating, fuel cell property, small wind energy property and geothermal heat pumps. In 2009 , a credit is available for 30% of the cost of the expenditures incurred for such property up to a specific dollar limitation, except that the cap is removed for all property except fuel cell property, so 2009 may be a better time to purchase and install such equipment. The property purchased cannot be used to heat swimming pools or hot tubs. If you have made improvements to your home or plan to by the end of 2009 , please contact me to discuss the amount of the credit you may qualify for.

Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit. After expiring in 2007, the nonbusiness energy property credit was re-enacted for 2009 and 2010 only. Property qualifying for the credit includes windows (including skylights), exterior doors, insulation, metal roof, advanced main air circulating fans, natural gas, propane, or oil furnace or hot water boilers, and other energy efficient building property that meets certain energy standards. The credit is 30% of the cost of the improvement(s) up to a maximum credit per year of $1,500. Please be sure to review any home improvements made this year and advise us of them with your 2009 tax information when submitted.

Business Credits

Small Employer Pension Plan Startup Cost Credit: For 2009 , certain small business employers that did not have a pension plan for the preceding three years may claim a nonrefundable income tax credit for expenses of establishing and administering a new retirement plan for employees. The credit applies to 50% of the first $1,000 in qualified administrative and retirement-education expenses for each of the first three plan years.

Employer-Provided Child Care Credit: For 2009 , employers may claim a credit of up to $150,000 for supporting employee child care or child care resource and referral services. The credit is allowed for a percentage of “qualified child care expenditures” including for property to be used as part of a qualified child care facility, for operating costs of a qualified child care facility and for resource and referral expenditures.

Differential Wage Credit: If your business is an “eligible small business,” as an employer you may take a credit against your income tax liability for a taxable year in an amount equal to 20% of the sum of the eligible differential wage payments for each of your qualified employees for the taxable year. The credit is for wages paid to a military person called to active duty to keep them at their current salary when they receive military pay.

Work Opportunity Credit: The work opportunity credit is an incentive provided to employers who hire individuals in groups whose members historically have had difficulty obtaining employment. Unemployed veterans and disconnected youth hired after 2008 qualify as a targeted group in addition to the existing targeted groups. This gives your business an expanded opportunity to employee new workers and be eligible for a tax credit against the wages paid.

Investment Planning

The following rules apply for most capital assets in 2009 :

Capital gains on property held one year or less are taxed at an individual’s ordinary income tax rate.

Capital gains on property held for more than one year are taxed at a maximum rate of 15% (0% if an individual is in the 10% or 15% marginal tax bracket-reduced).

Timing of Sales: You may want to time the sale of assets so as to have offsetting capital losses and gains. Capital losses may be fully deducted against capital gains and also may offset up to $3,000 of ordinary income ($1,500 for married filing separately). In general, when you take losses, you must first match your long-term losses against your long-term gains, and short-term losses against short-term gains. If there are any remaining losses, you may use them to offset any remaining long-term or short-term gains, or up to $3,000 (or $1,500) of ordinary income. When and whether to recognize such losses should be analyzed in light of the changes in the capital gains rates applicable to your specific investments.

Dividends: Qualifying dividends received in 2009 are subject to rates similar to the capital gains rates. Therefore, qualifying dividends are taxed at a maximum rate of 15%. Qualifying dividends include dividends received from domestic and certain foreign corporations.

Purchasing a Home: If you purchased a home, or are planning to purchase a home in 2009 , you may be eligible for up to an $8,000 credit if you are a qualified first-time homebuyer. One qualification is that your modified adjusted gross income must be less than $95,000 ($170,000 if married filing jointly). If you qualify, time is of the essence because the credit is set to expire. You must purchase your home before December 1, 2009 .

Social Security

Depending on the recipient’s modified AGI and the amount of Social Security benefits, a percentage — up to 85% — of Social Security benefits may be taxed. To reduce that percentage, it may be beneficial to defer receipt of other retirement income. One way to do so is to elect to receive a lump sum distribution from a retirement plan and to rollover that distribution into an IRA. Alternatively, it may be beneficial to accelerate income so as to reduce the percentage of your Social Security taxed in 2010 and later years.

Other Tax Planning Opportunities

We also can discuss the potential benefits to you or your family members of other planning options available for 2009 , including §529 qualified tuition programs.

Alternative Minimum Tax

Thanks to another legislative amendment in early 2009 , the alternative minimum tax exemption amounts will be high enough to spare millions of taxpayers from the AMT effect. The exemption amounts are: (1) $70,950 for married individuals filing jointly and for surviving spouses; (2) $46,700 for unmarried individuals other than surviving spouses; and (3) $35,475 for married individuals filing a separate return. Also, for 2009 , nonrefundable personal credits can offset an individual’s regular and alternative minimum tax .

Some of the standard year-end planning ideas will not reduce tax liability if you are subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT) because different rules apply. Because of the complexity of the AMT, it would be wise for us to analyze your AMT exposure.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call. I would be happy to meet with you at your convenience to discuss the strategies outlined above. There is still time to implement these strategies to minimize your 2009 tax liability.

Very truly yours,

Gary M. Locarno