thetaxinfosource.com   Taxes are inevitable.

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In today’s tough economic times, it makes sense to save money anywhere you can. One area that you may have overlooked is your property taxes. By following these helpful tips, you could substantially lower your tax bill.

The first thing you should do is confirm that the government has the correct information for your property. You’ll need to visit the tax assessor’s office and get a copy of your tax rate card. Verify that the lot size, square footage and any listed improvements are accurate. Correcting these discrepancies will help the assessor’s office determine your property’s actual value.

There are exemptions that can lower your properties assessed-value and lower your tax bill. You should ask for a list of exemptions and apply for those that you are entitled to receive. Many states offer homestead exemptions and tax discounts to senior citizens, veterans and the disabled. These exemptions are not automatic; you have to apply for them.

In buying or selling real estate, you often hear the phrase “location, location, location”. The same rule applies to property assessment. If there are changes in your area that lower your property’s market value, these could also lower your assessed property value. If your home has lost value due to the zoning changes or a high level of foreclosures, you should request a reassessment to reflect your property’s current value.

The tax assessor’s office is also a powerful resource for reviewing the assessment value of other homes in your area. For example, you and your neighbor have comparable homes, but you have a one-car garage and your neighbor has a two-car garage. After reviewing the property tax records, you discover that both properties have the same assessed value. You can discuss this discrepancy with the tax assessor’s office. This should set the reassessment process in motion and could reduce your property taxes.

When the assessors come to inspect your property, give them a complete tour. A cracked foundation, worn-out roof or a functionally-obsolete floor plan can reduce your property taxes.

If you do your homework, or hire professionals (Click here to learn more), you can reduce your property taxes and save money.

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Rick Fish is an amateur radio technician in his spare time, he also works for Republic Property Tax. You can contact him via  his website.

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The government actually wants to give back some of your money? The Energy Star appliance rebates and tax credits program will be beneficial if you purchase energy efficient appliances for your home. Of course, as with every program, there are stipulations and limitations but overall there are many options available for homeowners. These rebates and tax credits are only obtainable for homeowners, and certain credits are not offered for new construction.

The Energy Star appliance rebates and tax credits are designed to get Americans to upgrade their current appliances and are strongly encouraging consumers to recycle their old appliances. These rebates and tax credits only apply if replacing older models. The government is hoping to save energy, wear and tear on the environment, and money for consumers. Individual states and territories have their own rebate system for whatever appliances would be in greatest need, either weather-related or environmental for their area of the country.

If you are looking for rebates, your local state has agreements with certain suppliers that have agreed to give rebates when specific appliances are purchased. Generally, the list of appliances includes dishwashers, water heaters, refrigerators, and freezer, among others.

If you are looking for a tax credit you will probably see a greater amount return to you in the long-run. The government is willing to give generous tax credits to homeowners who purchase energy saving devices such as fuel cells, small wind turbines, solar panels and solar powered devices, special air or heating units, certain roofing materials, insulation, and specific windows and doors. As stated earlier, there are specifications, so check into your particular state for details.

When getting rid of your old appliances, look up state energy conservation offices or local recycling centers that will accept your appliances. Make sure that you get a record of your donation – you will need it to submit your claim for a tax refund or rebate.

There are time limits on the Energy Star appliance rebates and tax credits. Make sure that you qualify for your purchase soon before time – or money – run out.

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Bret G is an avid energy saving fan, he enjoys writing and rock climbing.

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The Service Members Civil Relief Act (also known as SCRA) is a tax act that applies to active military personnel. It provides tax benefits beginning as soon as you receive your orders for active duty. Here are 8 tax tips for military personnel regarding your benefits under SCRA.

1. You are not charged state income taxes in a state that you are not a resident of while you are working for the military. Your spouse is also protected from an increase in their income tax due to your income.

2. You are given a longer period of time to pay your taxes while in active duty. This grace period lasts until 180 days after your active duty ends.

3. If you give you life in the service of your country, your death gratuity (which is payable to your family) is tax free.

4. You are permitted to claim some travel expenses (usually within a hundred miles from your residence) as part of your military responsibilities. Claim these expenses on line twenty four of tax form 1040.

5. You are permitted to designate another person to represent you to the IRS regarding your tax return. This person can respond to inquiries from the IRS regarding your tax return while you are overseas or on active duty.

6. Some of your income military benefits are tax, including combat pay. You are also permitted to deduct interests form your mortgage and property taxes even if you use BAH to pay for your home. Legal fees, dental care and child care can be used as deductions.

7. You are eligible for an Earned Income Credit at a higher income than civilians. If you have several children and earned $34,458, or one child and earned $30,328 you are still eligible for EIC. You may not file foreign earned income if you wish to claim this credit, and returns on personal investments must be under $2650.

8. While in active duty you are exempt from residency requirements, which state you must live in the United States for half of each tax year.

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Jacobi is a former soldier in the United States army, he learned the hard way that tax law is more flexible for US’ finest.