Getting Ready for Tax Season As tax season approaches, it’s important to not overlook potentially valuable deductions in common situations. Knowing where these opportunities lie and how to take advantage of each one of these tax benefits will help put money back into your pocket. Below are two cases you should be aware of this tax season. Energy Saving Home Improvements If you have made an energy-saving upgrade in your home, you are eligible to receive a credit of 30% of the cost, up to $1,500 max. Examples of these improvements may include an energy efficient heating and cooling system, upgraded windows and doors and insulation and roofing projects just to name a few. Homebuyer Tax Credit If you have not purchased a home in the last three years or if you are a first time home buyer, you may collect up to $8,000 if you signed a contract on your home by April 30, 2010. Furthermore, homeowners who have owned their home for at least five years and purchased an additional property after November 6, 2009 are eligible to receive up to $6,500. With both purchases, the homes must be purchased for $800,000 or less and are the primary residence of the homeowner (not rental properties). Working with a professional CPA firm is the best move you can make to ensure you’re taking advantage of every tax benefit this season. Did you know that the average refund in 2010 was $2,994? Don’t leave anything to chance this season. Contact us today for our taxation services. Meet: Rusty Hopkins With an exemplary career focused in estate and succession planning, Rusty Hopkins is known as a problem solver with a diverse skill set.  By engaging challenges with a solid mix of creativity and risk management clients are guaranteed a professional relationship in which quality is certain.   Industry-specific expertise is critical for effective business and tax consulting.  Rusty has specialized knowledge in the real estate, construction, manufacturing, and service industries.  He routinely provides consultative services to help clients create success.

Rusty Hopkins, CPA rhopkins@batescarter.com 770.532.9131 "A sound tax strategy will address long-term goals in terms of compensation, benefits, retirement plans, business exit scenarios and estate planning."

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