Table of contents

12 topics, start to finish

Read them in order for a full picture, or jump to whichever question you have right now.

1. 01Why a Credit Beats a DeductionOne reduces income; the other reduces the bill.5 min
2. 02The Low-Income Housing Tax CreditThe largest affordable-housing subsidy in the country, paid through the tax code.7 min
3. 03The Historic Rehabilitation CreditTwenty percent of the cost of restoring a certified historic building.6 min
4. 04Energy Credits for New and Improved BuildingsEfficient construction pays twice: lower bills and a smaller tax.6 min
5. 05Solar and Clean Energy CreditsA percentage of the equipment cost, straight off the tax bill.6 min
6. 06Accessibility and Small-Property CreditsSmaller credits that most owners never ask about.5 min
7. 07The Rules That Decide If You Can Use ThemEarning a credit and using a credit are two different events.7 min
8. 08State Credits, Syndication, and TransfersA credit you cannot use is sometimes a credit you can sell.6 min
9. 09Harvesting Losses in Your PortfolioTurning a down position into a real tax saving.5 min
10. 10Turning Trading Activity Into a BusinessTrader status changes the rules — if you truly qualify.6 min
11. 11Donor Advised FundsDeduct this year, give the money away over time.5 min
12. 12Basics of Trusts and TaxesPowerful planning tools — and a favorite wrapper for scams.6 min