Start 2021 off strong with these smart money moves
Money resolutions can include filing taxes early, reviewing spending and saving more for retirement
After the train wreck that was 2020, you may well question whether it’s worth trying to plan anything. But knocking off a few financial tasks early in the year can better prepare you for whatever 2021 has in store.
File your tax return ASAP
Filing your tax return early typically means getting your refund sooner. Not only that, it could thwart refund-stealing identity thieves. Also, If you were owed a stimulus check in 2020 but didn’t get one, or should have gotten more, you can claim the missing money on your return.
If you owe the IRS, it’s better to know sooner rather than later. You’ll have more time to find the money or arrange a payment plan.
Also, unemployment checks are generally taxable. Many people who received last year’s extended jobless benefits may face a larger-than-expected tax bill this year, tax experts say.
