Tax Tip: Summer Activities May Affect Your 2021 Taxes

Both major life events and small changes to your work or family routines can have an impact on your taxes. These events and changes often occur during the summer, especially this summer with the economy reopening. If your life circumstances take either a planned or unexpected turn this summer, you may want to take a few extra steps to prepare for tax season next spring.

If you get married, you should report any name or address change to the Social Security Administration, IRS and post office to ensure that you receive important tax documents.

If your child returns to in-person day camps or daytime education programs, some of the cost may qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit. Make sure to save records of all fees paid.

Seasonal and part-time work create a variety of record keeping and tax reporting challenges. If you are a student and do not earn enough money to owe federal income tax, you may need to file a 2021 tax return to claim a refund of any tax withheld from your pay. Those who earn side income from a part-time job or gig economy work may need to adjust their paycheck withholding for their primary job to make sure enough tax is withheld. You can use the IRS Withholding Estimator tool to check where you stand.

Also keep in mind that income earned as a freelancer or independent contractor may be subject to self-employment tax. Figuring out whether you are officially an employee or an independent contractor can get tricky for temporary work. A tax professional can help you determine your status, and plan for self-employment tax if appropriate.