*By Carlo Versano* For many of us, the impact of the tax overhaul that went into effect a year ago won't be felt until we file our 2018 returns. Here are some things to remember as tax season approaches (W-2s should start appearing in mailboxes in a month), courtesy of Katelynn Minott, a CPA at Bright!Tax: 2018 returns have big increases in the standard deduction, which is now: * $12,000 for single filers * $18,000 for heads of households * $24,000 for married couples filing jointly While standard deductions have roughly doubled, the personal exemption has been eliminated. That means you can no longer reduce your taxable income by the $4,050 per household member. The standard deduction increase is generally positive for single and married people, but negative for anyone with dependents. Filers will also no longer be able to deduct costs associated with job searches and working from home, which will negatively impact freelancers and anyone who spent more than 2 percent of their adjusted gross income on job-related expenses. The new law also makes it harder to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes. Filers should be prepared to get acquainted with a vastly different 1040 form, Minott said. And if you had a major life event in the last 12 months ー marriage, job change, child ー don't forget to update your W-4 to reflect that change. And if you're expecting a refund and need the cash, don't forget the IRS works on a first-come, first-serve basis after you file. "The earlier you file, the earlier your return will come back to you," Minott said.

Share:
More In Culture
The Deep End: Transportation
They say life is about the journey, not the destination — and how you get there makes all the difference. Americans shunned train stations, roadways, and airports amid the coronavirus pandemic, never realizing things could be fundamentally different when they return. In this episode, we're exploring the evolving world of transportation, from how we get around to how goods get to us.
Bronx-Raised Cardi B Offers to Pay Fire Victim Burial Costs
Cardi B has offered to pay the burial costs for all 17 people killed in a fire in a New York City high-rise. New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced Wednesday that the rapper had offered the financial relief for victims of the Bronx fire.
Load More