Unfortunately, natural disasters, and losses from them, occur each year and will continue to impact people's lives, causing personal and financial loss, and in some cases, even severe financial and economic loss. The income tax rules may provide for a small silver lining if the right circumstances apply.

The Mayan calendar "end of times" prediction scheduled for Dec. 23, 2012, might not be all bad when compared and contrasted with some of the other predictions associated with Taxmageddon and the fiscal cliff on the horizon.

The final deadline for filing their annual tax return, October 15, is coming up fast.

Take home pay may be lower beginning January 1, 2013 unless we get some changes to the current expiring tax provisions. Why? Three major areas of change.

I spend a lot of time reviewing the latest tax laws and how they can affect you, but it's fun every now and again to take a step back and look at some of the stranger nuances of tax law.

Did you know that a change in marital status, having a child, or sending one off to college, even a change in employment status, can affect your tax return?

Are you self-employed? Do you have investment income, prize or lottery winnings, or other income that doesn't traditionally have income tax withholdings? If you answered yes to any of these, you may need to make an estimated tax payment by September 17.

If you or someone you know has higher education costs, look to the tax rules to get some much deserved tax relief and possibly a bigger tax refund this coming tax year. Let your education help you make the most out of tax time.

Summertime means beach, barbeques and much needed vacation time. Probably the last thing on your mind is your taxes. Yet this is the perfect time to review your tax situation.

Summer jobs are a great opportunity for young Americans to learn about income taxes, and also to increase their personal financial literacy by understanding that taxes are not just automatic and don't always result in a refund.

One of the most significant changes that comes with marriage is a new tax filing status and there are several options. If you are planning to tie the knot this year, here are some more items to keep in mind.

If you are one of the unlucky few who do receive a 'review' notice from the IRS, here is some important information to consider.

A better way to work towards a larger refund next year is by taking advantage of all the tax credits and deductions that you may be entitled to, but are often overlooked.

With the tax deadline now here, many Americans are enjoying their tax refunds, putting them to use to pay bills, buy something special or add those dollars to their savings. That's the good news. The bad news? Well, this moment of elation may be short-lived.

With this year's deadline on April 17, 2012, last-minute tax filers have two extra days to submit their 2011 tax returns. If you are filing in these final days, keeping the following tips in mind may make the process easier and may help you avoid making some common mistakes.

If you are someone who has, or expects that you may have, a tax liability to pay, it's important to be aware of the rules regarding tax payments and to manage your time wisely in advance of the April 17 tax deadline.

Be cautious and vigilant when it comes to providing any personal information, such as your social security number, bank or credit account numbers over the phone or via e-mail, and avoid carrying your social security card in your wallet.

In 2011 the federal government declared a record-breaking 99 natural disasters, including floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and heat waves. If you were the victim of a natural disaster in 2011, you may be eligible for relief dollars when filing this year's tax return.