Happy New Year! It’s a new year, a new you, and a new time to do things differently—like your taxes. Tax-filing season is officially here, and there are many things you can do to be prepared and organized. Here are a few simple tips that can help you save time, stress, and money:
- Double-check your paycheck – If you haven’t checked the withholding amount on your pay stub lately, now is the time to make sure you’re deducting the right amount.
- Decide who will prepare your taxes – Major life-changing events such as career, marriage, and death can make taxes more complicated, so it’s important to hire the right tax professional to handle your taxes.
- Ensure beneficiary designations are up to date – It may not matter today, but down the road, it’ll help minimize the taxes your beneficiaries and heirs pay on your assets after you die.
- Max out retirement plan contributions – The money you put in your tax-deferred accounts reduces your taxable income and your tax bill while growing until you need the money in retirement.
- Shield yourself from tax scams – Do not respond to phone calls or emails from anyone claiming to be from the IRS or the U.S. Treasury—those organizations will never call you on the phone.
- Consider “bunching” deductions – This process is achieved by pushing deductible expenses into the same calendar year to exceed thresholds and allow you to itemize tax deductions.
- Consider converting traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs -– These withdrawals aren’t considered income for federal tax purposes, and you don’t have to take RMDs from them every year. (Note that when you convert, it’s taxable income, which will raise your tax bill for that year).
Preparing for taxes can seem overwhelming. It pays to stay organized during this time. As your dedicated team, we’re committed to your financial success. Contact us at and let us guide you in getting the most out of your tax return.
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Megan Jones joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as marketing director. Megan and her husband live in Fredericksburg, VA with their German Short Haired Pointer, Gus. Megan is a graduate of Longwood University and holds a degree in communications. Megan is the oldest of Dave Lopez’s three children and not only enjoys working alongside her father, but also with her cousin, Chase, who joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. Megan is also a fully licensed Life, Health, and Annuity agent. When not at work, Megan enjoys sitting on the back porch with family and friends enjoying food and music.
Amy Anderson joined the ILG Financial team in 2023 as the client relations coordinator. Her responsibilities include scheduling of appointments, annual check-up notifications, and annuity and required minimum distribution assistance. She is a graduate of Harding University with a degree in Computer Information Systems. Amy and her husband have two children and she enjoys reading, crocheting, music and spending time with her family.
Terri Center joined the ILG Financial team in 2019 as client services manager. She handles client records, application processing, and gathering information to provide a professional and friendly experience with all of our clients. Terri is a graduate of Oakland University. She is married and has two children. She enjoys hiking, family time, and puzzle challenging video games. She also likes to share her creativity in her canvas paintings and sewing projects.
Jessica Carson joined the ILG Financial team in 2018 as an agent. Jessica and her husband have four children, two dogs, 3 barn cats, 5 chickens, and three parakeets. She indeed loves her children and pets! When not at work, Jessica enjoys playing the piano and cello as well as traveling and spending time outside with her family, hiking, fishing, and boating.
Chase Lopez joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. Chase is a 2016 James Madison University graduate with a degree in management. Chase has been trained under the tutelage of Dave Lopez, who is not only the founder and managing member of ILG Financial, but also is Chase’s uncle and godfather. He also enjoys working alongside his cousin, Megan, who is Dave’s daughter.