Do You Owe The AMT?
American educational reformer Horace Mann called education “the great equalizer.”1 In football, it’s been said that turnovers are the great equalizer. And anyone who’s ever watched CBS’s “The Amazing Race,” knows airport delays are the great equalizer in a race around the world.
What Is The AMT, Exactly?
It may be easiest to think of the AMT as a separate tax system with a unique set of rules for deductions, which are more restrictive than those in the traditional tax system.
The only way to know for sure if you qualify for the AMT is to fill out Form 6251 from the Internal Revenue Service. It may be worth doing just to be sure, especially if you are a high income earner who can claim sizable tax breaks. Of course, under the 2017 tax law, many traditional tax breaks are limited, including personal exemptions and the state and local tax deduction.
If you should have paid the AMT and the IRS discovers that you didn’t, you may owe back taxes and could also have to pay interest and/or penalties.
The AMT Language
Because the AMT system has complicated rules and provisions, it’s a good idea to consider consulting legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. And remember, the information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties.
If you want to avoid any potential surprises at tax time, it may make sense to know where you stand when it comes to the AMT. The time and energy you spend today may be worth the investment.
Where Does All That Money Go?
Here’s a breakdown of how the federal government spends its revenues.
Source:Internal Revenue Service, 2019 and The Motley Fool 2019. Amount exceeds 100% due to rounding.
- Brainyquote.com, 2017
- CNNMoney.com, January 18, 2018
- Tax Foundation, 2019
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information.The information in the material in not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professional for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.
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