Above-the-Line Charitable Deduction 2026: A Quick Guide
Standard-deduction filers can deduct $1,000 ($2,000 MFJ) of cash gifts to public charities in 2026. What qualifies, what's excluded, and the receipts you need.
Tax Guides
Plain-language guides on 2026 federal tax brackets, credits, and deductions — and practical ways to estimate your refund before you file.
IRS Free File 2026: Where to File After Direct File Ended
IRS Direct File is gone for 2026. Use this guide to pick the right free filing option in 30 seconds, with eligibility, AGI limits, and provider quirks.
1099-K Threshold 2026: Venmo, PayPal & Cash App Rules
The 2026 federal 1099-K threshold reverts to $20,000 and 200 transactions. See state exceptions, what to do if you got one in error, and Schedule 1 fixes.
SALT Deduction Cap 2026: The $40,400 Cap and Who Benefits
The 2026 SALT deduction cap is $40,400 for most filers, with a 30% MAGI phase-down above $505,000. Math, examples, and break-even tables for high-tax states.
Child Tax Credit 2026: $2,200 Amount, Limits, How to Claim
The 2026 Child Tax Credit is $2,200 per child with up to $1,700 refundable. See income limits, SSN rules, Schedule 8812 examples, and how to claim it.
Itemized vs Standard Deduction 2026: Which Saves More?
Compare the 2026 standard deduction ($16,100/$24,150/$32,200) against itemizing under the new $40,400 SALT cap. Worksheet, scenarios, and break-even rules.
Child and Dependent Care Credit 2026: New 50% Rate Explained
The Child and Dependent Care Credit for 2026 now tops out at 50% thanks to OBBBA. See the full AGI sliding scale, worked examples, and FSA comparison.
How to File Taxes for the First Time in 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Filing taxes for the first time? This 2026 step-by-step guide covers documents, free filing options, new OBBB deductions, common mistakes, and what to expect.
Estimated Quarterly Taxes 2026: Due Dates, How to Calculate & Pay
Complete guide to 2026 estimated quarterly taxes: due dates, step-by-step calculation, safe harbor rules, OBBB changes, and penalty avoidance.
Auto Loan Interest Tax Deduction 2026: Who Qualifies & How to Claim
Learn who qualifies for the 2026 car loan interest deduction, how the $10,000 limit works, and how to estimate your tax savings.
No Tax on Tips & Overtime 2026: How to Claim Both Deductions
The 2026 tip deduction ($25K) and overtime deduction ($12.5K) can save thousands in federal tax. Learn who qualifies, how they interact, and how to file.
AGI Explained: What Adjusted Gross Income Is & How to Calculate It
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is your total income minus above-the-line deductions. Learn how to calculate AGI, what deductions lower it, and why it matters.
Tax Penalties in 2026: How to Avoid Late Filing & Underpayment Fines
Every IRS tax penalty explained with 2026 rates: failure to file (5%), failure to pay (0.5%), underpayment, and accuracy penalties. Examples and relief.
How to Estimate Your Tax Refund in 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Learn how to estimate your tax refund before you file. Step-by-step formula, worked example with 2026 brackets, and new OBBBA provisions boosting refunds.
New Tax Deductions for 2026: Complete OBBBA Guide
Every new and enhanced tax deduction for 2026 from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: tips, overtime, car loan interest, seniors, SALT, charitable, and PMI.
Earned Income Tax Credit 2026: Income Limits, Amounts & Eligibility
2026 EITC income limits, maximum credit amounts, and eligibility rules for every filing status. Includes phase-out tables and worked examples.
Senior Tax Deduction 2026: Who Qualifies & How to Claim It
The new $6,000 senior tax deduction for 2026 can save retirees up to $24,150 in total deductions. Learn eligibility, phase-out rules, and how to claim it.
Filing Status Guide: Which One Saves You the Most in 2026?
Compare all five IRS filing statuses with 2026 dollar amounts, side-by-side tax calculations, and a decision flowchart to find the status that lowers your bill.
Head of Household Requirements: Who Qualifies in 2026
Learn the three Head of Household requirements for 2026, including the considered unmarried rule, qualifying person tests, and how HoH saves you thousands.
Filing Status Guide: How to Choose the Right One in 2026
Compare all five IRS filing statuses for 2026, including standard deductions, tax brackets, and a decision flowchart to lower your bill.
Married Filing Jointly vs Separately: 2026 Tax Comparison
Compare married filing jointly vs separately for 2026 with updated brackets, standard deductions, SALT caps, and real examples showing which saves more.
Self-Employment Tax 2026: How the 15.3% Rate Works
How the 15.3% self-employment tax works in 2026. Step-by-step calculation, the 92.35% rule, wage base cap, quarterly payments, and ways to reduce your bill.
Capital Gains Tax Rates 2026: Brackets, Rules & Tips
2026 capital gains tax rates and brackets for every filing status. Covers long-term, short-term, NIIT, collectibles, and strategies to lower your bill.
How Much Can You Earn Tax-Free in 2026? Full Breakdown
Find out exactly how much income is tax-free in 2026 by filing status. Covers the standard deduction, 0% capital gains, Social Security thresholds, and more.
2026 Federal Tax Brackets: Rates, Ranges & What Changed
2026 federal tax bracket tables for all filing statuses. See the 7 marginal rates, standard deductions, SALT cap, and changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill.