Everyday Law & Life

What Is Self-Employment Tax in the U.S.? A Guide for Freelancers and 1099 Workers If you're self-employed or earn income as an independent contractor, you’re not just responsible for income tax — you also owe self-employment (SE) tax. Here's what it is, how it works, and how to stay on top of it. 💼 What Is Self-Employment Tax? Self-employment tax covers: Social Security (12.4%) Medicare (2.9%) Total: 15.3% of your net earnings Employees split this with their employer — but as a freelancer or 1099 worker, you pay the full amount yourself . 📄 Who Pays SE Tax? You must file if: You earned $400 or more in net self-employment income You’re a sole proprietor, freelancer, independent contractor, or gig worker You received income reported on Form 1099-NEC or 1099-K 💡 How to Calculate It Calculate net earnings from self-employment (gross income – expenses) Multiply by 92.35% (the IRS-approved portion) Apply the 15.3% SE tax rate ...

Can You Deduct Medical Expenses on Your Taxes in the U.S.? Here's What Qualifies Medical bills can add up fast — but did you know that some of those expenses may be deductible on your taxes ? Let’s explore when and how you can claim medical expense deductions in the U.S., and what qualifies under IRS rules. 🧾 What Is the Medical Expense Deduction? You may be able to deduct qualified unreimbursed medical expenses — but only if you itemize deductions on your tax return. 🔍 They must exceed 7.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) to be deductible. 💡 Example: AGI: $60,000 7.5% of AGI = $4,500 If your out-of-pocket medical costs = $7,000 → You can deduct $2,500 on Schedule A ✅ What Medical Expenses Qualify? You can deduct: Doctor, dentist, surgeon, chiropractor, psychiatrist fees Hospital services & nursing care Prescription medications & insulin Health insurance premiums (if not employer-paid) Long-term care costs Medical eq...

Who Qualifies as a Dependent on Your Tax Return in the U.S.? Claiming a dependent on your tax return can lead to major savings — including credits, deductions, and even lower tax brackets. But who actually qualifies? Let’s walk through the IRS rules and common scenarios to determine who you can legally claim as a dependent. 👶 Two Types of Dependents The IRS defines two main types: Qualifying Child Qualifying Relative Each has different rules. 🧒 1. Qualifying Child Requirements: Relationship : Your child, stepchild, sibling, or their descendant Age : Under 19 (or under 24 if a full-time student) Residency : Must live with you more than half the year Support : Cannot have provided more than half of their own support Joint return : Cannot file jointly with a spouse (unless only to claim refund) 👴 2. Qualifying Relative Requirements: Doesn’t have to live with you (if a listed relative) Gross income < $4,700 (2023 limit, adjusted annua...

Is an HSA Really Worth It? Pros, Cons, and Tax Benefits Explained Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are often praised as one of the best tax-advantaged tools available in the U.S. — but are they really worth it for everyone? Let’s take a deep look into how HSAs work, who can benefit the most, and the potential downsides you should know before opening one. 💼 What Is an HSA? An HSA (Health Savings Account) is a tax-advantaged savings account that allows you to set aside money pre-tax for qualified medical expenses. You can only contribute if you have a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). ✅ Key Tax Benefits Tax-deductible contributions (Even if you don’t itemize deductions) Tax-free growth Earnings and interest grow without being taxed Tax-free withdrawals When used for qualified medical expenses 🔁 Known as a “triple tax advantage” 📊 2024 Contribution Limits $4,150 for individuals $8,300 for families +$1,000 catch-up for age 55+ 🔍 What Can ...