The stock market reached record highs this year, and many believe the bull has more room to roam. But if you’re ready to jump back into stocks, consult your calendar before you start pouring more money into the market. Buying mutual funds between now and the end of the year could trigger an unnecessary tax bill.
Sometime in December, many funds pay out dividends and capital gains that have built up during the year, and the payout goes to investors who own shares on what's known as the ex-dividend date. It might sound like a savvy move to buy just before that day so you get a whole year's worth of income. That's not how it works, though.
Yes, you'd get the payout, but at the time of the payout, the share price falls by exactly the same amount. If you get $2 a share in dividends, for example, the share price drops by two bucks. In effect, the fund is simply refunding part of your purchase price.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
But the IRS doesn't see it that way. You have to report the payouts as income on your 2013 return -- and pay taxes on them -- even if the money is automatically reinvested in extra shares. (The tax threat does not apply to mutual funds held in 401(k) plans or other tax-deferred retirement accounts.)
Before you buy shares for a nonretirement account in December, call the fund company or check its Web site to find out exactly when the dividend will be paid so you aren't buying a tax distribution.
Buy after that date and you'll not only get a lower price, but you'll also avoid a tax bill. If you buy before and get stuck with the tax bill, there is one consolation: You'll have a higher tax basis . . . and a lower tax bill when you ultimately sell the shares.
-
Baby Boomers vs Gen X: Who Spends More?Baby Boomers and Gen X are guilty of spending a lot of money. Here's a look at where their money goes.
-
Retire in Finland and Live the Nordic DreamHere's how to retire in Finland as a US retiree. It's ideal for those who value natural beauty, low crime and good healthcare.
-
Ask the Editor, June 6: Questions on Hobby Losses, MedicareIn our latest Ask the Editor round-up, Joy Taylor, The Kiplinger Tax Letter Editor, answers questions on hobby losses, I bonds and Medicare premiums.
-
Homeschoolers: 529 Plan Savings Could Soon Work for YouSavings Accounts A new House GOP bill could change how you save for your child's homeschool education. Find out how.
-
Five ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ Tax Changes to Watch in the SenateTax Policy The House passed its version of Trump’s "One Big, Beautiful Bill." Here’s what to look for as Senate Republicans take up the mega legislation.
-
Ask the Editor, May 30: Questions on the One Big Beautiful BillAsk the Editor In this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, we answer tax questions from readers on the House-passed “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
-
New GOP Car Loan Tax Deduction: Which Vehicles and Buyers QualifyTax Breaks To fulfill Trump's campaign promise, House GOP lawmakers want to offer a tax deduction for car loan interest. How would it work?
-
Ask the Editor, May 23: Reader Questions on Gifts, Estate TaxIn this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, we answer tax questions from readers on gifts, the estate tax and stepped-up basis upon death.
-
Big GOP Tax Bill Could Change Your Estate Planning for 2025Tax Law The GOP might extend and increase the higher estate and gift tax exemption and AMT thresholds. What might this mean for your estate plan?
-
Ask the Editor, May 16 — Reader Questions on Capital GainsIn our latest Ask the Editor round-up, Joy Taylor, The Kiplinger Tax Letter Editor, answers three questions from readers on capital gains.
