Why is it so hard to understand my Form 1040?
It’s a pretty daunting task to read your 1040 and understand what you’re looking at. When you break it down, it’s really not too bad.
Income
Section 1 of the infographic indicates where you find the Income you earned through the year. This includes income such as W-2 wages, Passthrough activity, Social Security, etc.
Deductions For Adjusted Gross Income
Section 2 indicates deductions you can take directly against Income that reduce the amount that determines your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). It includes such deductions as Self-Employment Taxes paid, Student Loan Interest, etc.
Deductions From Adjusted Gross Income
Section 3 indicates deductions taken after AGI is calculated. This includes the exemptions you get for the standard deduction or itemized deductions (those deductions calculated on Schedule A).
Exemptions
Section 4 indicates exemptions to which you can deduct. This includes claiming your spouse and/or children to which are dependent to you.
Income Tax
Section 5 is where your Income Tax is calculated. Your Taxes are calculated by using the “Taxable Income” figure as a base for its calculation.
Credits
Section 6 shows what credits you have taken. This is different than a Deduction because Credits are taken dollar for dollar against your taxes. Credits are always the most advantageous way to reduce taxes, if you’re eligible for any.
Other Taxes
Section 7 is where any additional taxes are levied. This includes additional taxes such as Household employee taxes and Self-Employment Taxes.
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