The IRS updates key tax regulations every year to keep up with inflation. The IRS also modified and updated the Earned Income Tax Credit, Medical Savings Account deductibles, and the annual exclusions for gifts. Considering that, take a moment to review crucial tax-related changes before you file your 2022 taxes, however, if you have already filed, see how much they’ve affected your return.
Inflation At Its Peak
According to the Labor Department’s consumer price index, inflation climbed 6.8% from a year ago in November, reaching a four-decade high. It is unknown if inflation will continue to increase or go down. Americans can be assured, however, that the higher the inflation rate, the more uneven its impact will be on everyone’s taxes.
The price increases were the greatest on record for new autos (increased 11%) and fast-food restaurants (up 7.9%). “Because of differences in inflation adjustments, some taxpayers will feel inflation’s impact more than others.” Kyle Pomerleau, a senior colleague at the American Enterprise Institute.
What Can You Do As Inflation Rises?
Even though the IRS has modified its tax brackets to keep up with inflation, some taxpayers might expect to pay more in 2022 due to higher-than-expected inflation and the continuation of various federal and state provisions. If you have any concerns about this, you should adjust your financial plans. Another option is to use tax-deferred investment accounts and analyze your spending to reduce the impact of inflation on your taxes as well.
Taxpayers Anticipating To Pay More
Several provisions of the tax code have not been updated to account for inflation. As a result, taxpayers can expect to pay more in 2022. Inflationary gains can negate wage increases and they can also drive taxpayers to a higher tax rate. In addition, many states also do not adjust components of their state taxes to account for inflation. These elements act as a tax increase on their own, especially during periods of inflation.
Resolve Your Tax Bills
If you’ve found yourself in a nasty mess with the IRS, take a deep breath. For taxpayers who may have difficulty paying off an excessive amount of tax debt, there’s a new and improved relief program that consolidates many major relief programs into a one-size-fits-all assistance program. Any issues regarding back taxes, unfiled years, or any other tax-related problems may be solved through one program; the IRS Fresh Start Program!
How Simple Is Qualifying?
Considering that the Fresh Start Program is a federal program, you would think meeting the qualifications may be very difficult, but really, it’s a lot simpler and quicker than you think. Take the following steps in order to find out if you are eligible in as little as 3 minutes.
- Fill out some basic information about yourself and your back taxes here.
- Have a representative reach out to you to discuss your eligibility.
- Go through the enrollment process and finally reduce or eliminate your tax liabilities.
