HJP Lakes Financial Solutions

05/29/2026

National 529 Day – Did You Know?

If you put money into a 529 education savings plan, earnings may be withdrawn federal income tax-free when used for qualified education expenses. Qualified expenses can include tuition, fees, books, supplies, computers, and for students enrolled at least half-time, certain room and board costs.

While 529 contributions are not deductible for federal income tax purposes, many states offer a full or partial state income tax deduction or credit for contributions. Some states and plan sponsors may also offer special incentives around National 529 Day.

Recent law changes expanded the use of 529 plans. In 2026, up to $20,000 per year, per student, may be used for qualified K–12 education expenses at public, private, or religious schools. Prior years were generally limited to $10,000 annually.

05/29/2026

Underreported income and math errors are key mistakes that can trigger an audit from the IRS. Having your taxes prepared by a professional can significantly reduce this risk.

The IRS is constantly looking for a reason to audit you. There are several red flags that can identify your tax return as one that needs additional attention. Knowing these indicators can help you avoid the unwanted scrutiny.

05/27/2026

Financial education is not only about growing money —
It is also about understanding how to manage and protect it.

A balanced financial strategy often includes four important areas:

• Growth
• Safety
• Tax Advantage
• Protection

Many people focus primarily on accumulation, but long-term financial stability may also depend on managing risk, understanding taxes, and preparing for unexpected life events.

For example, two individuals may have similar retirement savings, yet experience very different outcomes depending on how well their strategy addresses taxes, healthcare costs, income sustainability, and protection planning.

The goal of financial education is not simply to help people make more money —
It is to help families build stronger, more sustainable financial foundations.

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05/22/2026

There's still time to lower your tax obligation. Here are five great ideas to consider.

Now is a great time to assess your current tax situation and address any lingering tax questions that may improve your tax picture this year. Here are five things to consider.

05/20/2026

Qualifying Dependents – Did You Know?

In addition to your children and parents, a number of other individuals may qualify as your dependents for tax purposes. Important factors can include the person's income, how much support you provide, and how much of the year the person lives with you. In some limited cases, even a non-relative who lives with you year round as a member of your household may qualify as a dependent.

05/15/2026

The gift tax is one of the most misunderstood provisions in the tax code. Here is what you need to know.

Presenting a gift to a grandchild does not normally have us thinking about the taxes. However, if not careful, the over-generous gift giver could end up with a surprise tax bill and a note from the IRS.

05/12/2026

Health Savings Accounts - Did You Know?

Changing jobs? If you have a health savings account (HSA), you can take it with you. Unlike flexible spending accounts (FSAs), which are usually tied to your employer, your HSA belongs to you. You can continue using your HSA funds after leaving the job where you opened the account. However, you may make new HSA contributions only if you remain eligible to contribute. To remain eligible, you generally must be covered by an HSA-eligible high-deductible health plan (HDHP) and have no disqualifying coverage.

05/11/2026

Nobody is coming to save you financially… and that’s why financial education matters.

The decisions you make today can change your family’s future tomorrow.

We believe education + action = transformation.

Learn. Grow. Build. Share.

05/08/2026

Receiving Online Payments - Did You Know?

If you are self-employed and receive payments through online payment processing platforms, take care to separate business and personal transactions. You can do this by setting up separate business accounts on the platforms, or by using features that allow you to specify the purpose of payments. Otherwise, the platforms may overreport your income.

05/08/2026

You can legally lower your taxes by shifting a certain amount of unearned income to your children. Here are some ideas to implement this strategy.

The progressive nature of income tax rates offers taxpayers the incentive to transfer assets to lower earning taxpayers. Why not your children? Here are some tips.

05/06/2026

Want a lower tax bill? Your tax planning needs to start now!

With so much uncertainty in the economy, the tendency is to step back and wait until things settle down. On the other hand the early bird catches the worm. Now is a great time to be thinking about steps to reduce your tax obligations, both this year and into the future. This month an article is pres...