I like using steps for anything I try to accomplish, especially in the realm of money stuff, because it prevents you from having an anxiety attack when you don't accomplish everything all in one day. Like with learning any new skill, things need to be broken down into steps so that you're doing one thing at a time. When I did my taxes for the first time, I didn't set aside one day to do them. I set aside an entire month. Day one: un-crinkle my receipts. That was it. Success! If I had told myself I needed to sit down and do all my taxes and not get up until they were done, I would have panicked and found myself on the couch with a pint of Häagen-Dazs, taxes incomplete.
This is not going to happen to you on my watch. Baby steps. Here are five common questions that are often misunderstood. So here they are answered once and for all to help you get most out of your taxes AND maintain your sanity.
Nicole Lapin is a veteran financial journalist, serving as an anchor on CNN, CNBC, and Bloomberg. Her first book, Rich B*tch: A Simple 12-Step Plan For Getting Your Financial Life Together . . . Finally, came out this year. You can follow Nicole on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and at NicoleLapin.com for smart financial advice and unconventional money tips.