Retire Your Mortgage?

Kimberly Lankford gives advice on claiming the dependent-care tax credit, converting to a Roth, choosing to pay off a mortgage or invest in stocks, and more.

Debate on Tax Overhaul
Is Under Way (Really)

But it’s no surprise if you missed the story buried in last week’s newspapers.

Get a Break on College Costs

Even if your child is already in school, you can reap big state-tax benefits by feeding a 529 plan.

Tax-Friendly 529 Plans for Last-Minute Contributors

5 FAQs About Tax Law Changes for 2010-11

We help you figure out your tax planning for this year and beyond.

Tax Credits for Going Green

You may be able to write off some of the costs of energy-efficient home improvements.

FAQs on the Child-Care Tax Credit

Know which expenses you can write off and how to qualify for this break.

State Taxes Vary for Roth Conversions

Don't forget about the state tax bill when contemplating a Roth conversion.

Second-Chance Tax Savings

If you missed any of these breaks on your 2009 return, you can claim them now.

Tax Rules for Second Homes

Learn how mortgage interest, property taxes, rental property and tax-free profit affects your tax return.

Property-Tax Deduction and COBRA Subsidy Updates

Legislators didn't extend the COBRA subsidy. But there's still a chance that the property-tax deduction for non-itemizers will be revived.

Financial Benefits of Decluttering

It pays off to unload items you no longer need (or never really needed at all).

Tax Breaks for Energy-Efficient Home Improvements

You might qualify for a tax credit if you install an eligible central air-conditioning system this year.

Sales-Tax Holidays Coming

Mark these days on your calendar to avoid taxes on back-to-school items.

Six Tax Breaks for Small Business

Plus steps to ease the credit crunch for smalls -- all in a bill moving rapidly through Congress.

More Time to Qualify for the Home Buyer Credit

Congress has extended the deadline for closing the deal on home purchases made by April 30.

A Tax Break Expires

Tap your Coverdell account now for pre-college expenses.

Breaking Obama's Vow on Tax Hikes

Democrats move ever so slightly toward the card no one wants to play.

Get a Tax Credit for Summer Camp

You can claim the cost of day camp if you meet certain requirements.

A Tax Debate That's Long Overdue

Congress may be cutting down the wrong tree in the way it's approaching the deficit.

Charitable Gift Strategies for the Oil Spill

Here's how your generosity can pay off at tax time.

Maine Turns Down State Tax Tradeoff

Voters reject more sales taxes in exchange for lower income taxes.

Do Americans Pay Too Much in Taxes?

The Tea Party says yes, but worldwide statistics suggest it's not that clear cut.

Is a U.S. VAT in the Cards?

It’s more than a long shot. But lawmakers will tackle some other thorny tax issues before the year is out.

Ways to Cut Your 2010 Tax Bill

Rack up tax savings before you file you return by making the right moves throughout the year.

5 Cost-Saving Tips for Moving Time

Decamp mid month and other ways to save without schlepping it yourself.

71 Ways to Cut Your 2010 Tax Bill

Filing your tax return is a once-a-year event but trimming your tax bill requires year-round attention.

Tax Savings for Single People

Reduce the amount you owe to Uncle Sam by adjusting your withholding, switching to a Roth 401(k) and making IRA contributions sooner rather than later.

Tax Savings for Affluent Families

Stash cash in a self-employed retirement account, be creative with your generosity and think twice about selling stock for a profit if you're subject to the AMT.

Tax Savings for Young People

By keeping track of moving expenses, using a Roth to save for your first home and timing your wedding, you can save come tax time.

Tax Savings for Young Families

Take advantage of your flex account, save for college in a 529 plan and hire your children to lower your tax bill.

Tax Savings for Older Families

Time claiming Social Security benefits, keep careful records of medically necessary improvements to your home or car, and tote up out-of-pocket costs of doing good.

Tax Savings for Empty-Nesters

Roll over an inherited 401(k), help your children earn a credit for retirement savings -- and rack up tax savings in the process.

The IRS Wants to Know If You Pick a Derby Winner

Or if you have gambling winnings of any kind.

Save Money by Going Green

Think being environmentally friendly is expensive? Think again.

Tax Break for Firms Now Hiring

Here’s what employers need to know to take advantage of the new jobs bill.

Stack Up Your Income Against Obama's

Where do you rank as a taxpayer? How much of the tax burden do you bear?

Did You Miss This Tax Break for College Costs?

You may be able to claim an expanded version of the Hope credit if your child attends college in the Midwest.

How We Built Our Collection of Quick & Easy Financial Fixes

We guarantee that readers can swiftly execute and benefit from our 38 recipes for financial success, because we’ve already done so ourselves.

Last-Minute Tax-Filing Tips

The deadline matters only if you owe money. But you still have to file to collect a refund -- and some taxpayers are running out of time.