Skip to main content

Featured

Holiday Ginger Cookies Recipe

  Ingredients: - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour - 2 tsp ground ginger - 1 tsp baking soda - 1 tsp ground cinnamon - 1/2 tsp ground cloves - 1/4 tsp salt - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 large egg - 1 tbsp water - 1/4 cup molasses - 1/4 cup additional granulated sugar for rolling Instructions: 1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. 2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. 3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, water, and molasses, and beat until well combined. 4. Mix Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. 5. Form Dough Balls: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in the additional granulated sugar to coat. 6. Bake: Place the...
Post a Comment
Read more
Labels

How to Save Money on Tax Prep This Year

 


Tax season is here, and many taxpayers are looking for ways to reduce their tax preparation costs. Filing taxes can be expensive, as the industry faces a shortage of accountants and raises prices accordingly. However, there are some free options available for eligible filers, depending on their income level and tax situation. Here are some of them:

  • IRS Free File: This program offers free guided tax prep software for filers with an adjusted gross income of $79,000 or less in 2023. You can choose from eight partners, some of which offer free state filings as well. Free File can handle various forms and schedules, including those for self-employment and gig economy income.
  • Free File Fillable Forms: This option is for filers with any income level, but it requires more knowledge and skills. It is the electronic version of a paper return, and it does not offer any guidance or state filings. You have to fill out the necessary forms and schedules yourself, and save a copy of your return for your records.
  • Volunteer tax prep from IRS programs: If you need more assistance, you may qualify for free tax prep from trained volunteers. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program serves filers with an income of up to $64,000, as well as those with disabilities or limited English proficiency. The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program serves filers who are 60 or older, with a focus on retirement issues. Both programs have some limitations on the types of returns they can handle, and you can find a location near you with this tool.
  • IRS Direct File: This is a new pilot service that offers free filing via the IRS website. It is currently invitation only, but it will be available to certain taxpayers in 12 states by mid-March. It is only for very simple returns, with a few types of income and deductions. You have to claim the standard deduction and use the IRS website to file.
  • Private companies: Some private companies also offer free filing options, but you have to be careful about the fees and conditions. Some companies may charge you for additional services or upgrades, or limit their free offers to certain forms or income levels. You should read the fine print and compare the options before you choose.

Filing taxes can be stressful and costly, but you don’t have to pay a fortune to get it done. By exploring the free options available, you can save money and get your refund faster. Just make sure you file by the deadline, which is April 18, 2024. 

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment