[GSlob]

Regarding "getting in the giving mood": a good dozen years ago there was some call-in radio program pushing the same point for tax purposes around early April. I managed to call them and [their fatal error] my call got on air live. So, to establish my bona fides I mentioned that in many states there would be an additional tax benefit under state tax laws, and then I proceeded to mention that there is a tax strategy with much greater efficiency, close to 100%. They swallowed it hook, bait, and sinker, and asked "what is it?"- and got the punch line: "why, just keep your money, of course!". At which point they disconnected me and started hissing [I was listening in on the live broadcast]. Both me and my acquaintances got quite a laugh.

[Maximus of Texas]

"Start with your next mortgage payment, due Jan. 1. This actually represents interest for the month of December, so make the payment before the 31st. By accelerating the payment, you get an additional deduction this tax year for the interest paid."

Not sure about this one. Mortgage companies will most likely report what accrued in the year, not what was actually paid, right?

[Fierce Allegiance]

Time for a trip to goodwill to donatethe kiddies summer clothes and last years too-small snow suits.