Taxes and More

Adding a dog to your family? Here are common expenses to know.

The Costs of Owning a Dog One of the biggest responsibilities a child—or a family—can take on is adopting a dog as a pet. Feed...

Educator Classroom Expense Deduction – Did You Know?

Eligible K-12 teachers, instructors, counselors, principals and aides who pay for classroom supplies out of pocket may deduct up to $350 of qualifying expenses per year. Married couples filing jointly who are both eligible educators may deduct up to $350 each, for a combined maximum of $700.

You do not need to itemize deductions to claim this deduction. Be sure to keep receipts and other records for any classroom expenses you plan to deduct.

Resetting your routine this back-to-school season? A chaotic home doesn't have to be your new normal. Discover quick, high-impact strategies to reclaim your space in this blog post via the link in the comments.

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Texas Realty | (512) 483-6000 | DRE: 523750

Spaces are shifting, and the homes keeping up are the ones that stand out. See what’s driving the change in this blog post via the link in the comments.

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Texas Realty | (512) 483-6000 | DRE: 523750

Do you own a shredder? There are three types, but only one will truly protect your identity.

Choose Your Shredder Carefully Protecting your personal information from identity thieves is a multi-step process; however, the big...

Women’s Equality Day commemorates the 1920 adoption of the 19th Amendment, which prohibits denying the right to vote to citizens on the basis of s*x.

This is a day to remember the pioneers who fought tirelessly for women's rights and paved the way for future generations—as well as a chance to honor the strength and resilience of women worldwide. Happy Women's Equality Day!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Texas Realty | (512) 483-6000 | DRE: 523750

Major Higher Education Tax Credits Now Require Valid SSN – Did You Know?

The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) and Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) help many Americans pay for higher education. For eligible students pursuing a degree or other recognized credential, the AOTC can cover up to $2,500 in tuition, required school fees and certain course materials per year. Meanwhile, the LLC can offset up to $2,000 per tax return for qualified education expenses for eligible students taking higher education courses for a variety of reasons.

Beginning with tax year 2026, the taxpayer claiming either the AOTC or LLC (and spouse, if filing jointly) must have a Social Security number (SSN) valid for work in the United States that was issued before the due date of the tax return, including extensions. If the eligible student is not the person claiming the credit (for example, if the student is that person's dependent or spouse), then the student must also have a valid SSN issued by that deadline. Other qualification requirements, such as income limits, remain in effect. A tax professional can help you determine whether the higher education expenses you pay for yourself, your spouse or a dependent qualify for a tax benefit.

The definition of the perfect neighborhood is shifting radically, changing how we live, connect, and invest. Discover the exclusive trends shaping tomorrow’s communities in this blog post via the link in the comments.

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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Texas Realty | (512) 483-6000 | DRE: 523750