Mint Horizons

Most people walk right past opportunities like this… and never realize it. As a tax professional, I see it all the time — right in the middle of everyday life — family time, events, memories — there are strategies sitting in plain sight that can quietly change your financial picture. If you own a small business, the IRS actually allows you to pay your child through the business… *legally.* Not a loophole. Not a gimmick. Just rules most people were never taught to use. The key? Do it the right way — real work, proper payroll, clean documentation. Because the difference between “saving a little” and “missing out completely”… usually comes down to what you *don’t* know.

Most people don’t realize… that “little side hustle” can actually be treated like a real business.

And when it is?
That’s when the tax advantages start showing up.
We’re talking about things like:
• mileage
• supplies
• home office
• equipment

The key is simple:
👉 Keep your tax preparer in the loop.
Because what feels like “extra cash” to you … could be missed deductions if it’s not handled correctly.
And if you don’t have someone guiding you through that… that’s a problem worth fixing.

Huge write-offs? That’s exactly what gets attention.
If it looks off, the IRS will look closer.
Keep it simple:
👉 Track it
👉 Prove it
👉 Sleep easy

Tax preparers during tax season sometimes feel like we’re living in the Matrix.
While everyone else sees numbers… we see patterns, deductions, credits, and solutions. 💻💚

They can’t prove them.

📌 No records = no proof.

The IRS can deny deductions you can’t substantiate, so keep your receipts, mileage logs, and documentation organized.
Always review things like this with your tax preparer.

How many miles did you drive to doctor appointments last year?
1️⃣ Distance from home/work to doctor
2️⃣ Double it (round trip)
3️⃣ Multiply by total visits (you + dependents)

That number could matter.
Many taxpayers never give their medical mileage to their tax preparer because of the rush to get taxes done, and leaving money on the table.
Were you one of them?

Review your medical mileage with your current tax preparer before you file your taxes. If you do not have a tax preparer, we welcome new clients. DM for info.

If you served jury duty last year and had to surrender your check while your employer paid you, make sure you notify your Tax Preparer.