Today TaxMama hears from Jim in Oklahoma with this challenge. “ I heard somewhere that you could deduct the expenses of a car with a sign on the door as an advertising expense. Any comments?” Dear Jim, Certainly you may deduct the expenses r

Today TaxMama hears from Shane in California with this idea. “Lets say my kid’s braces cost $7,000. Healthcare pays $2,000; so we pay $5,000. If I have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with $5,000 and my wife has an FSA account with $5,000, can we bo

Today TaxMama hears from Carole in Washington State who tells us. “My brother, a 1st time real estate buyer, is considering the purchase of a property with a garage/shop on it (not a house). Would this purchase qualify for the $8,000.00 1st time buyer t

Today TaxMama hears from Maure in California with this dilemma. “I haven’t worked since 2006, and have been exempt from paying taxes. So I have no tax returns. However, for a Hospital’s Medical Assistance Program for my bill, I need to show recent 1

Today TaxMama hears from Anne in New Jersey with this problem. “My tenant was evicted on 6/30/09. She left owing $4,000 in back rent – and she vandalized the townhouse. So far, I have spent $13,000 in repairs (contractor fees and supplies) to bring

Today TaxMama hears from Anthony in North Carolina with this story. “My son’s pregnant girlfriend moved in, back in May and the baby was just born. My question is, will I be able to claim both of them, girlfriend and baby, on my 2009 taxes? If so wil

Today TaxMama hears from Norm in California with a common question. “What is the best tax set up for in home consulting business. Is it LLC or? I have seen and heard so many different comments.” Dear Norm, There’s a reason you’ve heard s

Today TaxMama hears from Misty in Missouri who wants validation. “I received a settlement in my divorce for half the equity in our home. It was $15,000. I think in reading this is not going to be taxable. Is that correct? I’m keeping my fingers cr

Today TaxMama hears from Melissa in Texas with this question. “ I would like to sign up for my employer’s cafeteria plan for the preschool child care expenses. It will allow me to pay for about $5,000 of the child care tax free. But my son’s daycar

Today TaxMama hears from Dottie in Massachusetts with this question. “Does the maximum personal residence exclusion apply to someone who inherited a home, had it for 370 days, sold it for a long-term capital gain and received a K-1? He and his dad had