Kelley R. Taylor

1 day ago | kiplinger.com | Kelley R. Taylor

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1 week ago | kiplinger.com | Kelley R. Taylor

Last year, data show Americans drove away from dealerships with more than 15 million new vehicles, with roughly 80% of buyers reportedly relying on financing to purchase. So far in 2025, average car prices are about $48,000, according to Kelley Blue Book, with interest rates for car loans hovering around an average of 8.64%. For a 5-year loan, that roughly translates to $187 a month just in interest. For those who need a new car, those costs can strain budgets.

1 week ago | kiplinger.com | Kelley R. Taylor

Every April, millions of people across the United States dutifully file their taxes, stressed out and worried that even a slight mistake might bring an IRS audit or financial penalties. That’s because for the so-called “average taxpayer,” deliberately failing to pay taxes or hiding income can sometimes lead to crushing fines or prison time and a criminal record that lingers for life. But is the outcome of tax evasion the same if you’re rich or influential?

1 week ago | kiplinger.com | Kelley R. Taylor

Washington State is making headlines again with significant changes to its tax code. A higher capital gains tax rate for top earners is part of a sweeping budget package signed into law last week by Gov. Bob Ferguson. “To get a budget in a challenging situation to the finish line, it’s going to require working together and a lot of compromise,” Ferguson said of the bill.

2 weeks ago | kiplinger.com | Kelley R. Taylor

For millions of workers, tips aren’t just a perk — they’re essential. Data show that about 4 million people in the United States, or one out of every forty workers, depend on tips to pay the rent and put food on the table. However, the IRS taxes that money. If tips are part of your pay, the IRS treats every dollar you receive, whether left on the table in cash or added to a credit card receipt, as regular income. But that could soon change.