Tax Planning in Cary, NC

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Tax PlanningReduce Your Tax Liability With Correct Capital's Financial Advisors in St. Louis

Tax Planning in Cary, NC. Tax liability refers to the amount you owe in taxes to local, state, and federal authorities. While Uncle Sam will always get some portion of your earnings or profits, there are perfectly legal ways to reduce your tax liability. Tax planning is also essential for successful retirement planning. At Correct Capital, we don’t give tax advice; however, we collaborate with local Cary, NC people, families, and companies to discover creative and proven ways to decrease their tax obligations. We could suggest maximizing deductible retirement contributions, which could reduce tax costs. Reach out to Correct Capital's tax planners and fiduciary advisors today at 877-930-4015, connect with us online, or keep reading to learn how proactive tax planning can benefit you.



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Tax Planning for Cary, NC Individuals and Families

Proactive tax planning can help individuals and families grow their retirement savings and give them more money for both today and in the near future. A few things to consider when tax planning in Cary, NC:

  • Standard Deduction vs. Itemizing —

    The standard deduction is a preset amount that you can deduct from your taxable income without additional documentation. In 2024, the standard deductions are:

    • $14,600 for single filers
    • $29,200 for married, filing jointly
    • $14,660 for married, filing separately
    • $21,900 for head of household

    When your deductible income is more than the standard deduction, itemizing each eligible deduction may be advantageous. However, itemizing requires more time and documentation to verify each deduction. A financial planner in Cary, NC can assist in determining whether taking the standard deduction or itemizing is more advantageous.

  • Review Your Retirement Accounts —

    Roth IRAs and Traditional IRAs both present unique tax benefits. With a traditional IRA, your contributions may be deductible, and you defer taxes until you take distributions. Roth IRA contributions, in contrast, are not deductible but allow for tax-free growth on your investments. The ideal choice depends on your personal financial and tax situation. For example, if you anticipate higher taxes in the future, you might consider transferring money from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA—a process known as a Roth conversion—paying taxes now but securing future tax-free growth.

    If you have a 401(k) plan with your employer, you can set aside income from your paycheck, placing it straight into your 401(k). The 401(k) contribution limit for 2024 is $23,000, along with an additional $7,500 for individuals 50 or older.

    If you're self-employed or have freelance income, you may also establish a retirement plan that suits your situation. Options include a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRA or a One-Participant 401(k) Plan, with contributions that can be deducted.

  • Tax-Loss Harvesting

    By selling securities at a loss, you can offset capital gains taxes owed on gains from other investments. This approach is particularly beneficial for short-term capital gains, which are often taxed at higher rates than long-term gains. You can deduct up to $3,000 in capital losses each year, with any remaining losses rolled over into future tax years.

  • Consider Paying Next Year's Bills Now —

    If you have unreimbursed medical expenses, you may be able to deduct amounts exceeding 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. Additionally, you might consider paying property taxes early (if allowed by your municipality), prepaying a child’s tuition, or covering your own career-enhancing classes for a Lifetime Learning Credit.

  • If Married, Filing Jointly or Separately —

    Roughly 95% of married individuals file jointly, as this is required for some tax benefits and credits. However, if one spouse is a higher earner, filing separately might place them in a lower tax bracket. Separate filing may also make sense if one partner has considerable medical costs, making it easier to meet the 7.5% medical deduction limit.

  • Make Charitable Donations —

    You can deduct up to 60% of your adjusted gross income by making donations to certain organizations. Per IRS Publication 526, eligible organizations may include the following:

    • Non-profits that are religious, scientific, educational, or focused on preventing cruelty to animals or children
    • Non-profits supporting veterans
    • A domestic fraternal organization that operates under a "lodge system" as long as the funds are directed toward charity
    • Cemetery companies or organizations
    • Any U.S. federal, state, local, or Native governments and subdivisions, as long as funds are for public use
    • Canadian, Mexican, or Israeli organizations, provided they meet U.S. charity qualifications

    *According to IRS Publication 526 (2023), Charitable Contributions

    Opening a Donor-Advised Fund allows for an upfront tax deduction with the flexibility to recommend how funds are distributed over time.

    Once you reach age 70½, you’re eligible to make a qualified charitable distribution by transferring up to $105,000 annually from your IRA directly to a charity without tax consequences. Once you’re 73 or above, the donation can also be applied as your required minimum distribution, potentially lowering both future distribution requirements and tax obligations.

Using a skilled financial adviser for tax planning in Cary, NC not only helps lower your tax bill this year but also lays out a strategy for retirement taxes. At Correct Capital, our goal is to help you save now and position yourself for financial stability in the future.

Common Tax Planning Mistakes for Cary, NC Individuals and Families

Good tax planning plays an essential role in ensuring your family’s financial well-being. Unfortunately, errors in tax planning often cause people to owe more or miss savings opportunities. Here are a few frequent tax planning mistakes and ways Correct Capital can assist in preventing them:

  • Not Maximizing Retirement Contributions —

    When you don’t contribute the maximum allowable to tax-advantaged retirement accounts like Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, or 401(k)s, you may miss out on valuable tax deductions and long-term growth.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We evaluate your financial situation to ensure you’re contributing as much as feasible, which can reduce taxable income while building a strong retirement foundation.

  • Overlooking Available Tax Credits and Deductions —

    Valuable tax credits and deductions—like the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and deductions for medical and educational expenses—are often overlooked by individuals.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our team checks your tax return for any missed credits and deductions, with the goal of increasing your refund or decreasing your tax bill.

  • Poor Record-Keeping —

    Disorganized financial records can lead to missed deductions and complications when filing taxes. Without accurate documentation, you might struggle to substantiate claims if audited.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our team helps you establish organized record-keeping systems and locate required documents, making sure everything is available for tax filing or in case of an audit.

  • Ignoring Tax-Efficient Investment Strategies —

    Neglecting tax-efficient investment strategies, such as asset location or tax-loss harvesting, can erode overall returns.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We help you implement tax-efficient investment strategies, including selecting the best vehicles and methods to lower taxes on dividends, interest, and gains.

  • Failing to Plan for Life Changes —

    Major life events like marriage, divorce, having a child, or buying a home can have a substantial impact on your tax situation. Neglecting to adjust for these changes can lead to unexpected tax liabilities.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We help you adjust your tax strategy based on life changes, allowing you to take advantage of new tax breaks while remaining compliant with tax laws.

  • Underestimating Estimated Tax Payments —

    For income not subject to withholding—like freelance or investment earnings—you may be required to make estimated tax payments. Neglecting estimated tax payments may result in penalties.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our team assists in creating a cash reserve plan to ensure you meet estimated tax obligations, reducing the risk of penalties.

  • Not Utilizing Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

    HSAs and FSAs allow for tax-efficient healthcare spending, but they’re often underutilized by eligible individuals.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our advisors explain the advantages of HSAs and FSAs and determine if they’re right for you, helping you set aside pre-tax funds for medical costs to reduce taxes.

  • Overlooking Education Savings Plans —

    By not using options like 529 plans, you could miss out on tax benefits that aid in saving for a child’s education.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We guide you in setting up education savings accounts that provide tax-deferred growth and may offer state tax deductions.

  • Not Reviewing Withholding Allowances

    Having too much or too little tax withheld from your paycheck can lead to either a large refund or an unexpected tax bill.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our team helps you adjust your W-4 form to achieve accurate withholding, enhancing cash flow and preventing unexpected tax bills.

  • Missing Opportunities for Charitable Contributions —

    Not properly documenting charitable donations can lead to missed tax deductions.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We help you plan charitable donations to take full advantage of tax benefits, offering assistance with Qualified Charitable Distributions when applicable.

Tax Planning for Cary, NC Business Owners

Business owners in Cary, NC can utilize tax planning strategies to maximize retained earnings in their business. Keep the following in mind for effective tax planning for your Cary, NC business:

  • Review the Structure of Your Business —

    Your business structure plays a significant role in tax planning and should be carefully evaluated. Structuring your business as an LLC, sole proprietorship, partnership, or S or C corporation will affect both corporate and individual tax rates.

  • Review the Retirement Plans You Offer Employees —

    Offering retirement benefits like 401(k)s, 403(b)s, or other defined contribution plans can lower your tax burden. The 2019 "SECURE" Act introduced new retirement plan rules, so consulting a financial advisor about their tax implications may be beneficial.

    If you’re a high-earning business owner with high-income employees, a Cash Balance Pension Plan could be advantageous, though it requires large contributions.

  • Have Your Family Work For The Business —

    Employing family members can yield tax advantages. Children can earn up to $14,600 without paying taxes and could start saving in a ROTH IRA. Having your spouse on the payroll can let you double the amount you contribute to retirement.

  • Use a Company Vehicle —

    Depending on the nature of your Cary, NC business, you and your employees may be able to use a company vehicle and deduct the transportation costs. You can take this deduction using one of two methods:

    • Take the standard mileage deduction of 67 cents per mile for gas and electric vehicles; or
    • Maintain records of actual costs like maintenance, registration, and fuel to calculate whether this deduction is greater than the standard mileage rate.
  • Consider Fringe Benefits For Your Employees —

    Increasing wages for employees can drive up employment tax expenses. See if employees are open to receiving fringe benefits as part of their pay package rather than a higher paycheck. Some options that may help lower your tax costs include health insurance, group life insurance, childcare assistance, travel reimbursements, meal programs, paid family leave, and education reimbursements.

    Accountable plans allow for reimbursing employees for specific expenses, like travel, meals, or entertainment, without these amounts counting as income.

  • Look into Carryover Deductions —

    If certain deductions can’t be claimed this year, it may be possible to carry them forward into a future tax year. Potential carryover deductions are home office deductions, net operating losses, business credits, and capital losses.

Tax laws for businesses are constantly evolving. Working with a Cary, NC tax planner offers the benefit of joint efforts with your tax professional to explore methods for boosting your financial future.

Common Tax Planning Mistakes for Cary, NC Businesses

Efficient tax planning can help businesses reduce tax burdens and boost profitability. Yet, numerous businesses make frequent tax errors that result in increased tax bills, overlooked deductions, and potential penalties. Below are some of the most common tax planning errors businesses make and how Correct Capital can help you avoid them.

  • Not Paying Estimated Quarterly Taxes —

    Businesses may overlook or underpay quarterly estimated taxes, which can lead to penalties and interest from the IRS. This is especially common among small businesses, freelancers, or companies with variable income.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We help businesses accurately calculate and schedule estimated tax payments, ensuring compliance with IRS deadlines and preventing unnecessary penalties.

  • Neglecting Retirement Plan Contributions for Owners and Employees —

    Many companies miss the opportunity to use retirement contributions to lower their taxable income. 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, and Solo 401(k)s offer significant tax advantages for business owners and employees.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We work with businesses to set up and maximize retirement plans, which reduce taxes while also helping attract and retain talent.

  • Not Planning for Profitability and Cash Flow —

    Some businesses only focus on minimizing their current tax bill, neglecting long-term growth and profitability. Such a narrow focus may cause missed opportunities for reinvestment or tax-efficient growth.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We offer comprehensive tax planning that extends beyond immediate deductions, helping businesses plan for growth, reinvest profits, and manage cash flow effectively.

  • Neglecting Exit and Estate Planning —

    A succession plan addressing the financial aspects of selling a business is often overlooked by owners. Often focused on day-to-day business, owners can overlook how to handle proceeds from a sale to minimize taxes. Without proper estate planning, owners might not fully address their loved ones’ and beneficiaries’ financial security.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our team supports business owners in exit planning, helping them decide how to manage the proceeds from a sale. We aim to identify the purpose of sale proceeds and apply estate planning principles, so beneficiaries are accounted for and taxes are efficiently managed.

Tax Planning in Cary, NC | Correct Capital Wealth Management

Our Cary, NC financial advisors and tax planners at Correct Capital know that your financial security—whether for family or business—is crucial now and in the long term. For this reason, we follow the fiduciary standard and our I.O.U. promise, meaning that every recommendation we provide is independent, objective, and unbiased. With tax laws constantly evolving, it’s essential to have a strong team in place, including your Cary, NC financial advisor, tax professional, and attorney. For support with tax planning, retirement planning, or any other financial concerns in Cary, NC, contact Correct Capital at 877-930-4015 or reach out online.


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