Category: Deductions & Credits

Six months of 2026 paychecks remain. A withholding checkup, the September 15 estimated payment, and this year’s higher 401(k), IRA and HSA limits can still change your April bill.

Remote W-2 employees cannot claim the home office deduction. Who can, how the $5-per-square-foot shortcut works, and the exclusive-use rule that trips people up.

The IRS lets you deduct medical costs above 7.5% of your income, but only if you itemize. What qualifies, what doesn’t, and how the math works in 2026.

IRS and GAO data show audits are rare, mostly by mail, and concentrated at the bottom and top of the income scale. What actually raises your odds.

The EITC is worth up to $8,231 for tax year 2026 and it is refundable. Here is who qualifies, the income limits, and the mistakes that cost workers the credit.

Sell your main home and up to $250,000 of profit ($500,000 married) can be tax-free. The IRS ownership and use tests, the basis math, and the exceptions.

Up to 85 percent of Social Security can be taxable once combined income passes $25,000 or $32,000. How the formula works, plus the new $6,000 senior deduction.

The Saver’s Credit pays back up to $1,000 ($2,000 for couples) just for contributing to a 401(k) or IRA. Here are the 2026 income limits and how to claim it.