Money Brief

Personal finance systems for spending, saving, debt, and investing.

Education & Certification

Taxes

Articles filed under Taxes.

Top 8 IRS Scams: How to Spot Them and Fight Back

Top 8 IRS Scams: How to Spot Them and Fight Back

Here's a list of the latest IRS scams to stay on top of in 2025, and 10 ways to spot an IRS scammer. Plus, learn how these scams work and how to avoid them.

Jul 18, 2026

Data: Taxpayers Missing Out on Chance to File for Free

Data: Taxpayers Missing Out on Chance to File for Free

Free File is a program that allows the majority of taxpayers to file their federal income tax returns for free through participating software companies. But the service remains woefully underused.

Jul 18, 2026

Taxpayer Identification Number: Definition, How to Get One

Taxpayer Identification Number: Definition, How to Get One

A tax identification number (TIN) is for tax returns and other tax transactions. Social Security numbers are common TINs, as are the ITIN, EIN, ATIN and PTIN.

Jul 18, 2026

IRS Offer in Compromise: Basics, Who Qualifies

IRS Offer in Compromise: Basics, Who Qualifies

An IRS offer in compromise is a program allowing certain taxpayers to settle tax debt for less than they owe. Taxpayers must meet qualification requirements to apply, and the IRS rejects most applications.

Jul 18, 2026

What Does It Mean to Be Tax Exempt?

What Does It Mean to Be Tax Exempt?

Tax exempt means some or all income isn't subject to tax at the federal, state or local level. Here's how it works and who qualifies.

Jul 18, 2026

What Is Innocent Spouse Relief? Definition, How to Qualify

What Is Innocent Spouse Relief? Definition, How to Qualify

Requesting innocent spouse relief can help avoid additional tax if a spouse or ex-spouse misreported income or wrongly claimed tax breaks. See how to qualify.

Jul 18, 2026

IRS IP PIN: What It Is, How to Get One

IRS IP PIN: What It Is, How to Get One

An IP PIN from the IRS can help secure your identity when you file your tax return.

Jul 18, 2026

Data: Americans Waste Billions to File Tax Returns

Data: Americans Waste Billions to File Tax Returns

Despite 70% of taxpayers qualifying for the IRS’ Free File program, just 2% take advantage, according to the most recent IRS filing data.

Jul 18, 2026

Tax Levy: What It Is and How to Stop One

Tax Levy: What It Is and How to Stop One

A tax levy is the seizure of property to pay taxes owed. A tax levy can involve garnishing wages or seizing assets & bank accounts. Some items can’t be seized.

Jul 18, 2026

2024 NerdWallet Taxes Study

2024 NerdWallet Taxes Study

A new survey shows that Americans don't understand all the tax filing options available to them, including the IRS's Free File program.

Jul 18, 2026

Should You Skip That Charitable Donation at the Cash Register?

Should You Skip That Charitable Donation at the Cash Register?

Just over two-thirds (68%) of Americans donate to charity at the register of retail establishments, according to a new NerdWallet survey. But should they?

Jul 18, 2026

When Can I Retire?

When Can I Retire?

The earliest you can get Social Security retirement benefits is 62, but waiting boosts the benefit. Low expenses and other income may help you retire sooner.

Jul 18, 2026