TAX PREPARATION: How to Make 2004 Less Taxing

Maximizing your after-tax dollars to boost your bottom line
Jan. 1, 2020
Maximizing your after-tax dollars to boost your bottom lineHighlights of the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 Capital Gains
CHANGE: Top rate reduced to 15% from 20% (and to 5% from 10% for lower income taxpayers). TERM: Rates revert to previous levels after 2008.
Dividends
CHANGE: Top rate fell to 15% from 36.5% TERM: Rates revert to previous levels after 2008.
Income Tax
CHANGE: Across-the-board income tax cuts became effective Jan. 1, 2003. Top tax bracket dropped from 38.6% to 35%. TERM: Rates revert to previous levels after 2010.
Alternative Minimum Tax
CHANGE: Exemption increases to $58,000 (from $49,000) for couples, and to $40,250 (from $35,750) for singles. TERM: Exemptions revert to previous levels after 2004.
Child Care Credit
CHANGE: Raised to $1,000 from $600 for qualifying taxpayers. TERM: Credit amount will drop after 2004.
Marriage Penalty
CHANGE: Standard deduction raised for married taxpayers to $9,500; 15% bracket expanded upward. TERM: This provision expires after 2004.
If you

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William Lynott

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