Stash’s Guide to Tax Time

By Stash Team

We explain those confusing forms, key dates, and how to use that refund wisely.

Update: The deadline for filing taxes will be pushed to July 15, 2020 from April 15, 2020 due to the Covid-19 outbreak. The IRS is also giving individuals who owe money on their 2019 tax returns until July 15, 2020 to make those payments. The IRS urges people who are owed a refund to file as soon as they can. Find out more here.

Taxes are an inevitable part of life. And if you earn income of any kind, there’s no getting around it, you’ll owe state and federal taxing authorities money. That goes for income from wages, freelance work, investments, or any other source.

With that in mind, Stash has compiled the information you need to navigate your way through tax time, including the most important tax dates for your Stash investment account, important tax changes for 2020, ways to use your tax refund to supercharge your retirement savings, and more.

Before you file

There are key tax dates to keep in mind for your Stash investments in 2020. Find out what those are, plus an explanation of the different tax forms you’re likely to get. Don’t know the difference between a 1099-B and a 1099-R? We’ve got you covered!

When it comes to investing and taxes, it can sometimes seem pretty confusing. Between capital gains, dividends, interest, distributions, contribution limits, and multiple 1099 forms, your head can start to feel like it’s spinning. Never fear, this story will help you sort it all out. Plus, did you know that Stash provides all tax forms securely online? We’ll show you where to find them.

Each year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues refunds to about 70% of taxpayers. And if you’re one of these people, you’re probably itching to get your money back so you can put it to work. From e-filing to direct deposit of your funds, we’ll tell you about different ways to speed up the process so you can get your money faster.

It’s income tax filing season again, and that means either you owe Uncle Sam money, or he owes you a refund. Here's what you need to know about your tax return.

Your life and taxes

Stash has put together some tips to help you navigate how filing your taxes might change as you go through some of the most common life phases. If you’re graduating from college, getting married, buying a house, having a child, or retiring, we’ll explain the basics.

While that extra income from your side gig can help you make ends meet, and pay your bills, that money doesn’t come free. You’re likely to owe federal income tax on it. Find out what you have to pay, and when.

Tax rule changes

The IRS recently released the inflation adjustments to existing federal tax brackets for 2020, along with other tweaks to this year’s taxes. Not sure if you’re in the 37% bracket or the 10%? We break it all down for you.

After you file

Did you also know that the sooner you start investing for retirement, the more money you can potentially accumulate, and that waiting even a few years can reduce your retirement savings? Read on and we’ll explain how a tax refund could help jumpstart retirement savings.