Tax Planning
Tax Planning in Cleveland, OH. Tax liability refers to the amount you owe in taxes to local, state, and federal authorities. While it’s inevitable that a part of your earnings or profits goes to taxes, there are numerous legal strategies to lessen your tax burden. Tax planning is also essential for successful retirement planning. At Correct Capital, although we do not provide tax advice, we partner with local Cleveland, OH individuals, families, and businesses to discover creative and proven ways to reduce their tax obligations. For instance, we might advise an individual to maximize deductible contributions to their retirement plan, which can help lessen tax costs. Reach out to Correct Capital's tax planners and fiduciary advisors today at 877-930-4015, contact us online, or read on to see how effective tax planning can make a difference.
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Tax Planning for Cleveland, OH Individuals and Families
Effective tax strategies can help individuals and families increase their retirement savings and provide them with more money for both today and in the near future. Consider these elements when tax planning in Cleveland, OH:
- Standard Deduction vs. Itemizing —
The standard deduction is a fixed amount that reduces your taxable income without needing specific proof of deductions. 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 Cleveland, OH 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. Contributions to a traditional IRA may be fully or partially deductible, and taxes are only applied upon withdrawal. On the other hand, Roth IRAs do not offer a deduction for contributions, yet allow your money to grow tax-free. Which account benefits you most will depend on your specific tax planning needs. 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, it's possible to defer part of your salary directly into your 401(k) account. In 2024, the maximum contribution limit for a 401(k) is $23,000, with an additional $7,500 allowed if you’re 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, enabling you to deduct your contributions.
- Tax-Loss Harvesting —
Selling securities at a loss allows you to reduce the capital gains tax on profitable sales. This strategy is commonly used with short-term capital gains, as these are usually taxed more heavily than long-term gains. Each year, up to $3,000 in capital losses can be deducted, and extra losses can be carried forward to future 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 —
Approximately 95% of married couples choose to file jointly, which is the only way to qualify for certain tax credits and deductions. However, if one spouse is a higher earner, filing separately might place them in a lower tax bracket. In situations where one spouse has substantial medical expenses, separate filing can help reach the medical deduction threshold.
- Make Charitable Donations —
Donating to eligible organizations allows you to deduct as much as 60% of your adjusted gross income. Under IRS guidelines, the following types of organizations may qualify:
- Religious, scientific, educational, or anti-cruelty non-profit organizations for animals and children
- Non-profits supporting veterans
- Fraternal organizations under a "lodge system" provided funds are used for charity
- Organizations managing cemeteries
- Government agencies at any level within the U.S. when funds are for public benefit
- 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.
If you are over 70½, you can make a qualified charitable distribution by transferring up to $105,000 per year from a traditional IRA directly to a charity, tax-free. If you are 73 or older, that donation also counts toward your required minimum distribution, which may reduce both your future required distributions and tax burden.
Using a skilled financial adviser for tax planning in Cleveland, OH not only helps lower your tax bill this year but also lays out a strategy for retirement taxes. Correct Capital is here to help you keep more of your money today and establish a financially secure future.
Common Tax Planning Mistakes for Cleveland, OH 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. Below are some common tax planning errors and how Correct Capital can help you avoid them:
- Not Maximizing Retirement Contributions —
Failing to contribute the maximum allowable amounts to tax-advantaged retirement accounts, such as Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, or 401(k) plans, can lead to missed tax deductions and reduced growth potential over time.
How Correct Capital Helps: Our team assesses your finances to confirm you’re maximizing contributions, minimizing your tax burden while enhancing your retirement savings.
- Overlooking Available Tax Credits and Deductions —
Many miss out on significant credits and deductions, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, or deductions for healthcare and education expenses.
How Correct Capital Helps: We carefully examine your tax return to verify if you’ve taken advantage of all possible credits and deductions, helping to maximize refunds or reduce liabilities.
- 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: We assist you in setting up effective record-keeping systems and locating necessary documentation, ensuring all receipts and documents are properly organized and accessible when needed.
- Ignoring Tax-Efficient Investment Strategies —
Overlooking the tax impact of investment decisions can diminish your returns. This may include neglecting asset location strategies or failing to harvest tax losses.
How Correct Capital Helps: Our team provides insight on tax-efficient investment choices, assisting you in minimizing taxes on dividends, interest, and capital gains through strategic asset selection.
- Failing to Plan for Life Changes —
Significant life changes, such as marriage, divorce, becoming a parent, or purchasing a home, can greatly affect your tax obligations. Overlooking these changes could result in unforeseen tax bills.
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. Without making these payments, you could face fines and interest charges.
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 provide tax advantages for covering medical costs, but many eligible individuals miss out by not contributing.
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: Our team assists you in establishing education savings plans that feature tax-deferred growth and potential 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 assist with planning your charitable giving to maximize tax benefits, including helping with Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) if you qualify.
Tax Planning for Cleveland, OH Business Owners
Business owners in Cleveland, OH can utilize tax planning strategies to maximize retained earnings in their business. Consider these points when tax planning for your Cleveland, OH business:
- Review the Structure of Your Business —
How your business is structured is key for tax planning and requires thoughtful consideration. Whether you choose an LLC, sole proprietorship, partnership, or S or C corporation, your tax obligations for both the business and yourself will be impacted.
- 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.
For high-income business owners with well-paid employees, consider a Cash Balance Pension Plan. While this may involve substantial contributions, the tax savings can be considerable.
- 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. If your spouse works in the business, you may also double your retirement contributions.
- Use a Company Vehicle —
Depending on the nature of your Cleveland, OH business, you and your employees may be able to use a company vehicle and deduct the transportation costs. There are two options for claiming this deduction:
- Take the standard mileage deduction of 67 cents per mile for gas and electric vehicles; or
- Track your actual expenses, such as maintenance, registration fees, and fuel, to determine if this amount exceeds the standard mileage rate deduction.
- Consider Fringe Benefits For Your Employees —
Boosting employee wages often results in higher employment taxes. Explore the possibility of offering fringe benefits instead of wage raises. 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.
You can implement accountable plans to cover certain employee expenses, such as travel, meals, or entertainment, without reporting them 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. Examples of carryover deductions include home office expenses, net operating losses, business credits, and capital losses.
Business tax laws change frequently. Partnering with a professional tax planner in Cleveland, OH means they work with you and your tax expert to identify strategies for enhancing long-term financial outcomes.
Common Tax Planning Mistakes for Cleveland, OH Businesses
With smart tax planning, businesses can minimize liabilities and enhance profitability. Unfortunately, common tax mistakes can cause businesses to pay more, miss deductions, and risk penalties. Here’s a look at frequent tax pitfalls and how Correct Capital can help businesses steer clear of 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: Our team assists in calculating and timing estimated tax payments to keep businesses compliant with IRS rules and avoid penalties.
- Neglecting Retirement Plan Contributions for Owners and Employees —
Many businesses don’t fully utilize retirement plan contributions as a way to lower 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 assist businesses in establishing retirement plans that cut taxes and appeal to prospective and current employees.
- Not Planning for Profitability and Cash Flow —
Many companies prioritize short-term tax savings over long-term profitability and growth. This short-term focus can result in missed chances for strategic investments or tax-efficient growth strategies.
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 —
Business owners often fail to create a succession plan to address the financial aspects of selling their business. Owners frequently concentrate on operations and may neglect how to allocate proceeds from a sale in a tax-effective manner. Without proper estate planning, owners might not fully address their loved ones’ and beneficiaries’ financial security.
How Correct Capital Helps: We assist business owners with exit planning, guiding them in making informed decisions on how to allocate sale proceeds. Our approach involves identifying the purpose of the funds and applying estate planning strategies, which consider beneficiaries and minimize taxes.
Tax Planning in Cleveland, OH | Correct Capital Wealth Management
Our Cleveland, OH 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. Since tax laws are always changing, it’s vital to surround yourself with a solid team, such as your Cleveland, OH financial advisor, tax professional, and legal advisor. If you need help with tax planning, retirement strategies, or other financial services in Cleveland, OH, call Correct Capital today at 877-930-4015 or get in touch online.
