Tax Planning in Savannah, GA

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

Tax Planning in Savannah, GA. 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, although we do not provide tax advice, we work alongside local Savannah, GA residents, families, and business owners to explore effective and tried-and-true 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, connect with us online, or keep reading to learn how proactive tax planning can benefit you.



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Tax Planning for Savannah, GA Individuals and Families

Proactive tax planning can help individuals and families increase their retirement savings and offer them more money for both today and in the near future. A few things to consider when tax planning in Savannah, GA:

  • Standard Deduction vs. Itemizing —

    The standard deduction is a fixed amount that allows a straightforward deduction from your taxable income. 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. The drawback is that itemizing can be time-consuming and requires proof of each deduction. A financial planner in Savannah, GA can help determine whether taking the standard deduction or itemizing is more advantageous.

  • Review Your Retirement Accounts —

    Roth IRAs and Traditional IRAs both offer tax benefits, but in distinct ways. Contributions to a traditional IRA may be fully or partially deductible, and taxes are only applied upon withdrawal. Roth IRA contributions, in contrast, are not deductible but allow for tax-free growth on your investments. Which account benefits you most will depend on your specific tax planning needs. If you expect future tax rates to increase, a Roth conversion, or moving funds from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, might be wise to lock in tax-free growth while paying taxes upfront.

    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). For 2024, you can contribute up to $23,000 to a 401(k), plus an extra $7,500 if you are over age 50.

    Freelancers or self-employed individuals can open up personal retirement plans tailored to their needs. Options include a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRA or a One-Participant 401(k) Plan, which allow 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. 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 —

    For unreimbursed medical expenses, you can deduct costs that surpass 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. Other potential deductions include prepaying property taxes if permitted, covering future tuition costs, or investing in career-advancing courses to qualify 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. If one spouse incurs significant medical expenses, it might be advantageous to file separately to meet the 7.5% threshold for medical deductions.

  • Make Charitable Donations —

    By donating to qualifying organizations, you may deduct up to 60% of your adjusted gross income. Under IRS guidelines, the following types of organizations may qualify:

    • Non-profit organizations focused on religion, science, education, or preventing cruelty to animals and children
    • Veterans' organizations
    • 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
    • Certain Canadian, Mexican, or Israeli organizations that would be considered charitable under U.S. law

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

    If you start a Donor-Advised Fund, you’re able to contribute a significant amount right away for an instant tax deduction and suggest distributions over the coming years.

    At age 70½ or older, you can make a qualified charitable distribution by transferring up to $105,000 each year tax-free from a traditional IRA directly to a charity. 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.

By working with an experienced financial adviser for tax planning in Savannah, GA, you can reduce your tax liability this year and create a plan for managing taxes through retirement. At Correct Capital, we aim to put more money in your pocket now while preparing you for a secure financial future.

Common Tax Planning Mistakes for Savannah, GA Individuals and Families

Effective tax planning is crucial for your family’s financial health. 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 —

    By not maximizing contributions to retirement accounts like Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, or 401(k)s, you risk losing out on tax deductions and long-term growth opportunities.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We review your financial situation to help you make the most of allowable contributions, lowering your taxes while securing a robust retirement future.

  • 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: 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 —

    A lack of organized financial records may result in missed deductions and complications at tax filing time, and without the right documents, you may have trouble supporting 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 —

    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 —

    Significant life changes, such as marriage, divorce, becoming a parent, or purchasing a home, can greatly affect your tax obligations. Neglecting to adjust for these changes can lead to unexpected tax liabilities.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our team works with you to adapt your tax planning to significant life events, so you maximize applicable credits and deductions and meet tax requirements.

  • Underestimating Estimated Tax Payments —

    Income that doesn’t undergo withholding, such as freelance or investment income, often requires estimated tax payments. Failure to do so can lead to penalties and interest.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We help you prepare your cash flow to cover estimated tax payments, avoiding fines and added interest.

  • 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: We help you explore the advantages of HSAs and FSAs, advising on how pre-tax contributions for healthcare can lower your taxable income.

  • 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

    Withholding too much or too little tax from your paycheck often leads to surprises at tax time, like large refunds or owing taxes.

    How Correct Capital Helps: We work with you to adjust your withholding allowances for improved cash flow and reduced surprises during tax season.

  • Missing Opportunities for Charitable Contributions —

    Failing to document or strategize charitable donations can mean lost 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 Savannah, GA Business Owners

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

  • Review the Structure of Your Business —

    The structure of your business impacts tax planning and should be carefully considered. 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. With changes under the "SECURE" Act of 2019, speaking to a financial advisor in Savannah, GA about retirement plan tax benefits is recommended.

    For business owners and employees with higher incomes, a Cash Balance Pension Plan can offer significant tax savings, even if it requires a sizable investment.

  • 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. Employing your spouse can allow for increased retirement contributions, potentially doubling your retirement savings.

  • Use a Company Vehicle —

    Based on your Savannah, GA business type, you and your employees may qualify to use a company vehicle with deductible transportation costs. This deduction can be made in two ways:

    • Use the standard mileage rate to deduct 67 cents per mile (applicable for both 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 —

    Raising employee salaries may lead to increased employment tax costs. Consider whether employees would prefer fringe benefits instead of direct wage increases. Examples that could help reduce your tax liability include medical insurance, group life insurance, childcare support, transportation reimbursements, meal programs, family or medical leave, and reimbursement for continued education.

    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 —

    When some deductions are unavailable this year, they may be eligible for carryover into future years. Potential carryover deductions are home office deductions, net operating losses, business credits, and capital losses.

Business tax laws change frequently. One advantage of working with a professional Savannah, GA tax planner is that they will collaborate with you and your tax professional to find ways to improve long-term financial success.

Common Tax Planning Mistakes for Savannah, GA Businesses

Effective tax planning allows businesses of all sizes to reduce tax liabilities and increase profitability. Unfortunately, common tax mistakes can cause businesses to pay more, miss deductions, and risk 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: 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 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 assist businesses in establishing retirement plans that cut taxes and appeal to prospective and current employees.

  • Not Planning for Profitability and Cash Flow —

    Some businesses only focus on minimizing their current tax bill, neglecting long-term growth and profitability. This short-term focus can result in missed chances for strategic investments or tax-efficient growth strategies.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our team provides tax planning that goes beyond short-term cuts, supporting businesses in planning for growth, reinvesting, and handling cash flow efficiently.

  • Neglecting Exit and Estate Planning —

    Many business owners don’t establish a succession plan to handle the financial details involved in selling their business. While they may focus heavily on operations, they might miss planning for how to manage and allocate the sale proceeds in a tax-efficient way. Additionally, without estate planning, owners may miss opportunities to ensure beneficiaries and loved ones are taken care of.

    How Correct Capital Helps: Our team supports business owners in exit planning, helping them decide how to manage the proceeds from a sale. Our approach involves identifying the purpose of the funds and applying estate planning strategies, which consider beneficiaries and minimize taxes.

Tax Planning| Retirement Planners | Financial Advisor Near Me

Tax Planning in Savannah, GA | Correct Capital Wealth Management

Correct Capital’s financial advisors and tax planners in Savannah, GA recognize the importance of financial well-being for your family or business, today and into the future. To uphold your trust, we commit to the fiduciary standard and our I.O.U. promise—all advice is independent, objective, and unbiased. Since tax laws are always changing, it’s vital to surround yourself with a solid team, such as your Savannah, GA financial advisor, tax professional, and legal advisor. For support with tax planning, retirement planning, or any other financial concerns in Savannah, GA, contact Correct Capital at 877-930-4015 or reach out online.


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