A Roth Conversion is when funds are taken out of an IRA and converted into a Roth IRA. This conversion results in taxable income. Here are 4 Reasons to do a Roth Conversion:

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Due Date

The federal income tax returns are normally due on April 15th. This year, the 15th falls on a Sunday, so the due date should be Monday the 15th. However, Monday the 16th is Emancipation Day so the due date is Tuesday 17th. Some people aren't prepared to file. Others may be waiting for Form K-1's from their investments. Either way, if the return is not filed on time, an extension will need to be filed.

Federal Extension

An extension is filed by completing Form 4868. The extension will allow six months, or until October 15th to file the return. The extension will extend the time to file the return, it does not extend the time to pay the tax. Any tax that is due needs to be paid by April 17. Failure to pay by the due date will result in penalties and interest being assessed. more…

1) Don't panic. The returns are due on April 17th this year. This is due to April 15th falling on the weekend and April 16th being a holiday in Washington DC. If you can't get your return completed and filed on time, file an extension. The federal form is 4868 and the Connecticut form is CT-1040-EXT. This will allow you until October 15th to file. The extension however only extends the time to file, it does not extend the time to pay. Any tax due needs to be paid with the filing of the extension.

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1) Harvest Capital Losses

Capital gains property includes stocks, bonds and mutual funds.  Currently, the stated rate on long term capital gains is 15%.  If you have a net loss after netting all of your gains and losses, the tax deduction is limited to $3,000. Any excess capital losses can be carried into the future. more…

It’s that time of year again….time to file your income tax return.

What if you can’t get it done or don’t have all of your material to prepare it?

File for an extension.

To file an extension, complete Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.  This must be completed and filed by the due date, April 18, 2011. The extension is granted automatically if it is filed completely and on time.  The extension is for six months and allows for the returns to filed up until October 17, 2011. more…