Gender equality: A winning fight for a women’s basketball coach

Mary Burns worked as the women’s basketball coach at San Diego State University (SDSU) for 16 years, and was considered the “winningest coach in SDSU women’s basketball history.”  However, during her tenure, Burns lodged several complaints to the school regarding unfair treatment of the women’s basketball program, because the school “prioritized men’s sports over women’s…

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Debt forgiveness without bankruptcy?

You’ve probably seen a lot of these ads: “Settle your debts for pennies on the dollar!”, “Reduce your debts legally without filing bankruptcy!” “Stop bill collectors now and pay them only what you can!”   Are all these just exaggerated claims? Or are any of these ads true? How can you protect yourself from being…

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Proving your citizenship

A little known provision of a new law could result in a denial of health care benefits to an estimated 50 million Medicaid (California’s Medi-Cal) enrollees. This includes hundreds of residents in nursing homes around the Southland.  With President-elect Donald Trump taking office soon, these issues are sure to be raised again. On February 8,…

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Do you have these fears about bankruptcy?

Are you struggling with debt problems and have thought about filing for bankruptcy but have questions that you’re afraid to ask? Over the last 12 years, I have counseled and helped thousands of individuals in debt.  From what I’ve seen, a lot of people suffer for many years in debt when they could have obtained…

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How bankruptcy can get rid of financial stress

Being in debt can be one of the most stressful situations you will ever face in life. It happens to everyone although you may feel like you’re the only person on the planet going through what you’re going through.  But let me assure you that you are not alone in your struggle. The first step…

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Murphy’s Law 2: A somber side of life

WHILE my columns usually focus on the serious subject of IRS audits, let’s end this year with more somber versions of Murphy’s Law: Law of IRS Audits If you are a rat pack who keeps lots of tax records, you get an IRS audit letter as soon as you discard your records. Keep your records…

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ABCs of foreclosures, short sales, and deeds in lieu

THE loss of our homes to foreclosure, short sale, or deed in lieu of foreclosure is akin to adding insult to injury – after losing our homes, we also have to worry about lender repercussion, credit history, and tax consequences. Let’s define and discuss tax consequences of foreclosure, short sale, and deed in lieu of…

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Financial goals for the New Year

Among the top resolutions people make when the new year comes around is getting their finances on the right track.  The promise of new beginnings and the burden of self-improvement help people look back to a year’s worth of regrets. Aside from spending more time with family or trying to be healthy, we all certainly…

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Community property with right of survivorship

MARRIED couples buying property are asked to decide how they should hold title: • Joint tenancy or • Community property. Basically, it is a choice between the ease of transfer to the survivor for joint tenancy and the tax benefits of holding property for community property. Unfortunately, it also a choice between the loss of …

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Federal tax update for 2016 tax returns

1. YOU are REQUIRED TO FILE an income tax return if your 2016 gross income reaches: A. Single  $10,300 (11,850 age 65 or older) B. Married filing jointly  $20,300 (21,850 age 65 or older, one spouse) (23,000 both spouses) C. Married filing separately $4,000 (any age) D. Head of household $13,250 (14,800 age 65 or…

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Driving tips for first-time drivers

BEING able to get a driver’s license is an enormous step in a person’s life, whether the new driver is a teen or older. Once the ability to drive is earned, a car and the freedom to travel without the help of others symbolize independence for many, regardless of age. However, a driver’s license should…

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Series for Covered CA: Part 2

Different Health Plans PRESIDENT-elect Trump vowed to repeal at least parts of Affordable Care Act (ACA). Certain parts of that he will maintain, as he wants all Americans to have insurance and to maintain health coverage for those who have pre-existing health condition. Surely change will come, but for now, Covered CA assures Californians that…

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How should you hold title to real estate?

WHEN buying real estate, there is always that inevitable question: how do you hold title? Your choice can have dramatic impact on estate taxes and income taxes. Let’s explore choices to help you determine which title is best for your next property. Whichever you chose, get legal advice from your attorney. Joint Tenancy: • Any…

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