We all know about our federal income taxes.  If you don’t, let’s all hope that is because you don’t need to pay any.  But there is more – you would be surprised.  This is a tax calculator that will give you a clearer picture of the number and types of taxes you pay and their estimated amounts.

The Total Tax Insights™ calculator (totaltaxinsights.org) is the first-of-a-kind tool brought to you by the CPA profession that will give you a clearer view of your estimated annual tax obligation based on your place of residence across the country. There are more than 20 types of federal, state and local taxes included – some of which may surprise you. When I worked at Revol, I was able to see how many taxes are involved in cell phone service and within the telecommunications industry.  And that was just a slice.

The more you know about the taxes you pay, the greater insight you will have to make better informed financial decisions. You may start thinking differently about a lot of things, such as whether to pay off a mortgage, start a new business or when and how to save for retirement. Give it a try and then let’s talk about whether you are ready to begin the process of planning, managing and building your financial future.

Letters have recently been sent out by the Ohio Attorney General asking to spread the word about changes to the Ohio Charitable Registration.  In short, as explained in the letter, “most charities in Ohio now will be required by recent statutory and rule changes to register on-line.” Later on in a sample letter it reads, “Mandatory on-line filing is effective immediately for all non-profits with fiscal years ending after November 30, 2011.”

There are more details to it and the specific new requirements and changes can be found here: www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/CharitableRegistration.