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by Chris Bird
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purchase appreciating assets, pay cash for depreciating assets.
3. Pay off Existing Debts
The rate of return on the funds used to pay of a debt is equal to the rate of interest being charged on it. For example, when you pay off a credit card where you owe $5,000, which bears an 18% interest rate, you have just guaranteed yourself an 18% rate of return on that money.
Some of the best investments are the easiest. And here's a strategy that puts more funds into your pocket right away-that won't even cost you any taxes.
4. Deduct All your Equipment Purchases the First Year
The IRS permits you to write off up to $100,000 of equipment the first year you buy it
(IRC 179 deduction). With the deduction limit so high, Realtors® can deduct all their purchases of equipment - and that's not limited to computers, desks, PDAs, etc. By significantly reducing your taxable income, the social security taxes that would be paid on it are also reduced.
Two concerns need to me kept in mind when you use this expensing election. Taxes saved must be repaid upon sale of the asset(s), but that amount will not be subject to social security taxation. The only exception regarding recapture (in the prior sentence) occurs when the business use of the asset falls to 50% or less.
Being Tax Savvy is the Mark of a Professional
Your long-term tax consequences are as important as PITI (principal, interest, taxes and insurance) when you're assessing a real estate deal. For any investment or purchase to make sense, it needs to make good tax sense as well. That's what determines how much money really ends up staying in your pocket in the long run.
©Chris Bird, 1005
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