Thank you! That's super helpful about being specific with the description. Would "Professional Photography and Videography Services" be too long for that field? And for Part IV vehicle expenses - I've been tracking my mileage to photo shoots. Is there a minimum amount of business miles before it's worth claiming?

Professional Photography and Videography" Services is a perfect description -'it s clear and specific without being too long. The character limit gives you plenty of room for that.'There s no minimum threshold for claiming mileage expenses - if'you ve legitimately used your vehicle for business purposes, you can claim those miles. Even small amounts add up to deductions that save you money. Just make sure you have a mileage log with dates, destinations, purpose, and miles driven. The standard mileage rate for 2024 is 67 cents per mile, so those trips to photo shoots could add up to a significantdeduction.

But be careful with home office deduction. I heard it's a big audit trigger. Is it really worth the risk?

I haven't seen my actual pay stub, just the direct deposit amount. How do I get a copy of the detailed stub?

Most companies either provide a paper pay stub with your check (if you get a physical check), or they have an online portal where you can view and download your pay information. Ask your manager or HR person how to access your pay stubs - they're required by law to provide this information to you. Some companies use payroll services like ADP, Paycom, or Gusto where you'd need to create an account to see your info. If they haven't told you about this, definitely ask! The stub will break down exactly where every dollar is going.

The W-4 doesn't use allowances anymore. They completely changed the form in 2020. Now it's way more complicated with multiple steps and worksheets. 😫

Does this actually work? Seems like it might flag an audit if your deductions fluctuate wildly from year to year. Has anyone actually tried this strategy successfully?

Yes, this absolutely works and is a completely legitimate tax strategy. The IRS doesn't flag you for audit simply because your deduction method changes year to year - millions of taxpayers switch between standard and itemized deductions regularly based on their financial circumstances. Bunching deductions is a recognized tax planning strategy discussed by CPAs and financial advisors. It works particularly well for charitable contributions because you have control over the timing. Many charities are even familiar with this strategy and can help you set up your donations appropriately. Just make sure you keep proper documentation for the years you itemize.

This is an excellent point that gets overlooked! I live in California and we can itemize on our state return even if we take the standard deduction on federal. Saved me about $400 last year by doing standard federally and itemized on state. OP should definitely check their state's rules. It's not always an either/or situation between the two returns.

I hadn't even thought about state taxes! Do I need to file something specific with California to establish that I'm not a resident there? I literally haven't lived there since I was 11 months old.

Since you left as an infant, you should be fine without formally breaking residency - you never established it as an adult. California typically looks at factors like where you have a driver's license, voter registration, bank accounts, etc. Since you have none of these connections to California, you have a very strong case for non-residency. However, to be absolutely safe, you could include a brief statement with your federal returns explaining that you left California as an infant and have no connections to the state. In rare cases, people file Form 540NR (California Nonresident Return) with zero income to formally establish non-residency, but this is usually unnecessary for someone in your situation who never established California ties as an adult.

Renouncing is definitely an option but costs $2,350 in government fees alone, plus you need to be tax compliant for 5 years before renouncing! And if your net worth is over $2 million or your average annual tax liability exceeds $168,000 over the last 5 years, you could face an exit tax. Definitely not a quick or cheap solution.

I've checked all my mail thoroughly and asked about electronic options too. They definitely haven't sent it either way. From what I've gathered talking to ex-coworkers, they're behind on their payroll administration for everyone, not just me. Just trying to figure out my options since they're being so difficult about it.

This is good advice! I work in HR and employers definitely don't want the Department of Labor breathing down their necks. Mention the potential for penalties and they'll usually prioritize getting your W-2 out.