A Lesson In Doing Your Taxes Well

Tax Tips from Jill Schlesinger

1. It's the year of the Affordable Care Act and there are four new categories you should know about:
   • Do you have qualifying health care? If you do, check that box! It's that easy.
   • Check to see if you qualify for a health care exemption.
   • If you bought coverage this year, you may be entitled to a tax credit.
   • No coverage? Expect to be charged $95 per uninsured adult.



2. Tax credits to keep an eye out for (These depend on your annual earned income):
   • Child tax credit:  $1,000 for each qualifying kid
   • Earned income tax credit: Up to $6,000 this year
   • Child on dependent care: If you're paying someone to care for your child (under age 13) to either look for a job or work, you can get money back



3. Doing taxes can be complicated, but hiring someone can be expensive. If you aren't confident filing on your own, try VITA.