In this episode of The Empowered Investor Podcast, Keith Matthews and Andrea LeRoyer break down how to approach tax season with clarity and structure. From key deadlines to recent tax changes, they walk through what actually matters when preparing your return.

The discussion goes beyond basic compliance, highlighting how organization, awareness of credits, and proactive planning can materially impact your after-tax outcomes. They also cover practical frameworks, including what documents you’ll receive, what you need to track down, and how different life situations, from students to retirees, affect your tax strategy.

This episode offers a structured approach to navigating tax season efficiently while avoiding missed opportunities and costly oversights, an essential listen for anyone serious about managing their financial life with discipline and foresight.

Key Topics:

● April 30 = main filing & payment deadline. (00:02:56)

● Self-employed file later, but must pay by April 30. (00:03:08)

● Most tax slips arrive by late February. (00:04:25)

● Trust slips may delay filing into March/April. (00:04:43)

● First tax bracket reduced to 14%. (00:05:15)

● Some tax credits slightly reduced in value. (00:05:53)

● New/expanded benefits: grocery, disability. (00:06:35)

● Non-compliant short-term rentals lose deductions. (00:08:58)

● Digital news credit eliminated. (00:09:36)

● Underused housing tax removed. (00:09:55)

● Organize: income slips, assessments, installments. (00:11:14)

● Track manually: childcare, tuition, medical, donations. (00:15:12)

● Home office = prorated expense deductions. (00:18:20)

● Students should file to unlock credits & benefits. (00:20:47)

● First-time homebuyers eligible for tax credits. (00:22:32)

● Families gain access to child-related benefits. (00:23:48)

● Seniors benefit from multiple targeted credits. (00:25:28)

● Pension income splitting can reduce taxes. (00:32:20)

● Tax planning is year-round, not seasonal. (00:35:38)

Thanks for Listening!

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