Tax credits are one of the most powerful ways to lower your income taxes. A tax credit reduces your tax bill dollar for dollar. A tax deduction, on the other hand, only reduces your taxable income, so your benefit is determined by your tax bracket.
For example, a tax deduction of $1,000 will lower your tax bill by $320 if you are in the 32% tax bracket. A $1,000 tax credit will lower your tax bill by $1,000.
Here are some of the most common tax credits; most are subject to income limits.
- Child credit. Taxpayers who have dependent children under age 17 may be eligible for a child tax credit of $2,000 per child.
- Dependent care credit. Expenses paid for the care of dependent children under 13 and certain other dependents may qualify for a tax credit.
- Education credits. Qualified college and vocational school expenses for eligible students may qualify for a credit. Under the American Opportunity Tax Credit, up to $2,500 per student can be claimed for tuition and fees paid during four years of post-secondary education. Under the Lifetime Learning Credit, up to $2,000 per family is available for post-secondary education expenses and for education expenses to acquire or improve job skills.
- Earned income credit. This credit is intended for low-income taxpayers. The size of the credit depends on the amount of your earned income (wages and self-employment income), investment income, and your filing status. Qualifying children can increase the credit.
- Business credits. There are a number of credits available to businesses. They include the research credit the work opportunity credit, the disabled access credit, and the low-income housing credit.
Don’t overlook valuable credits that could reduce your taxes. For details on the credits for which you might qualify, contact any member of the Baker Holtz team for a review of your situation at (616)458-1835.
Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for weekly tax tips!