Taxes

Common-law marriage has been practiced in the United States since the 1870s. The rules are still applied to any unmarried couples living together that meet certain conditions. If you’re thinking of moving in with your partner, that’s great. However, there are definitely some things you need to be aware of before you start pooling assets […]

A homestead exemption can offer meaningful financial protection by reducing the taxable value of a primary residence and shielding a portion of its equity from certain creditors in situations such as bankruptcy or the death of a spouse. Many jurisdictions apply a graduated structure that provides greater relief for lower-valued homes. By subtracting an approved […]

Waiting for a tax refund can feel stressful, especially when it takes longer than expected. Even though most returns are processed without issues, a variety of factors can slow things down, from simple filing mistakes to verification steps or payment offsets. Some delays come from information on the return itself, while others result from how […]

Many people are unsure whether Social Security payments are taxable, and the answer often depends on the mix of income received during retirement. For a significant number of beneficiaries, taxes may apply because benefits usually combine with other earnings or withdrawals. That additional income can influence how much of the monthly payment is subject to […]