- Contribute the maximum amount allowable to 401(k) or retirement plans, especially if the employer matches contributions, as this keeps money saved for retirement and growing tax-deferred. - Taxpayers assigned an Identity Protection PIN must provide that number on tax returns this year and going forward to prevent fraudulent returns and help the IRS accept returns. - Low-income workers who earned under $53,930 in 2017 may qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, a valuable tax credit, by filing a return. - Taxpayers can receive deductions for donations of goods to charities worth over $500 by filing Form 8283 and providing details of contributions.

1. Tax Law in 2017
With the new year and the new president, it is well to stay on top of the tax situation in 2017.
Some things will change, and some things will stay the same. Following is a list of good, sound
tax advice for the coming year.
If your employer proffers a 401(k) or deferred pension plan, always contribute the maximum
amount allowable into it. This policy becomes especially important when your employer matches
your contribution. Leaving anything out of the plan keeps money loose -- when it should be
saved toward retirement. Even without a match, those funds are tax-deferred and can grow. If
your employer does not offer a retirement plan, an individual retirement account or a Roth IRA
are probably good options. Both permit tax-deferred gains, and the former may lead to a tax
deduction for the year you contribute to it.
Receiving an Identity Protection PIN (an IP PIN) means you must give that number on your tax
returns -- this year and every year afterward. This PIN, assigned to eligible taxpayers, is a six-
digit number that changes every year designed to prevent fraudulent returns from being filed
under your Social Security Number. It also helps the IRS accept your tax return. If you do not
receive notification of this PIN in the mail, you will need to retrieve it from the IRS Website.

2. Do not forget the earned income tax credit. If you worked and yet earned less than $53,505 in
2016 (the limit will be $53,930 in 2017), the EITC Assistant tool will tell you if you qualify for
this valuable credit. If you do, file a return.
You can also save money by donating your extra stuff to charities. The government, if the stuff is
in good condition or better, will grant you a tax deduction based on the market value of the
items. If the price of your contribution surmounts $500, you must file Form 8283, Noncash
Charitable Contributions, and give some details.
When you file your return, the best way to receive your refund is to file it electronically and use
direct deposit. Use IRS direct pay from your checking or savings account to settle any debts, and
make sure to save a copy of your filed tax return. It can be so complicated otherwise.
With new times come new rules, and it is well to be prepared. This list of tax tips should help
you know how to manage your finances in the new year under President Trump.
William Doonan is a tax law and legal expert in NYC.