Personal Finance
Advertiser Disclosure
Alicia Tuovila is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with a master of science in accounting from University of Central Florida. She is currently licensed in the state of Tennessee.
Alicia has a background in public accounting and nonprofit accounting. Her vast accounting experience includes budget preparation, month- and year-end closing, financial-statement preparation and review, and financial analysis. Since 2019, she has written accounting, tax, and personal finance articles.
As of December 2022, Alicia also owns and operates a boutique fitness center with bungee fitness, aerial arts, dance, and yoga classes. She has enjoyed this journey into entrepreneurship, and it has given her a new perspective on the importance of accounting and compliance for small business owners.
Articles by Alicia Tuovila
Tax Planning: What It Is, How It Works, and Best Strategies
Want to cut your tax bill and save more money for your financial goals? Tax planning can help. This article outlines how it works.
Educational Tax Credits and Deductions You Can Claim for Year 2025
If you’re a student or have paid for a student’s education, you may be eligible for education tax benefits in the form of credits and deductions. Here is a guide.
Standard Deduction vs. Itemized Deductions: Which Is Better?
What’s the difference between the standard deduction and itemized deductions? Which one is better? Here’s a guide to help you decide which one is right for you.
Roth vs. Traditional IRA: Key Differences & How to Choose
Here are some key differences between a Roth IRA and a traditional IRA to help you choose the best investment account for your personal situation.
A 12-Step Process to Starting a Business
There is a lot to consider when you’re planning to start a business. This guide can help keep you on track so you can check off all those pre-opening boxes.
How To Start An LLC in 10 Steps
Trying to set up an LLC for your new business? Here is everything you need to know.
Real Estate LLC: What They Are, Should You Have One?
A real estate LLC provides personal liability protection from lawsuits that may arise from your real estate investments. This guide will help you decide if a real estate LLC is right for you.
How to Start an LLC in California: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide to forming an LLC in California and maintaining your LLC’s good standing with the state.
Is a Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) Right for Your Business?
A merchant cash advance (MCA) can provide you with access to funds quickly when your business is in need of cash, but be aware of the high APR on repayment.
When Should You Pay Your Credit Card Bill?
Paying your credit card early may ease your mind as your billing due date arrives, but it may also improve your credit score.
10 Tips to Cut Your Tax Bill
There are certain things you can do—at tax time and throughout the year—to maximize your tax benefits and minimize your taxes due. Here are our 10 top tips.
Rolling Over 401(k): An Essential Guide
When you separate from a job where you have an existing 401(k), you have options. Here’s how to roll over your 401(k) and the tax implications of doing so.
The rule of 72: What is it and how does it work?
Internal Revenue Code Section 72(t) allows you to take early withdrawals from your retirement account without paying a penalty by using a substantially equal periodic payments (SEPP) plan. Here’s what you need to know.
Best Tax-Preparation Software 2024
Are you wondering which tax software is right for you? We have reviewed and compared the top six. Here’s where each one excels.
What Is the Average Tax Refund?
Wondering if your tax refund is typical? What is a tax refund, anyway? Here is what you need to know about tax refunds and the average refund in 2023.
What Is SEPP (Substantially Equal Periodic Payment)?
Want to take an early withdrawal from your retirement account? You may be able to set up a SEPP plan to avoid the 10% early withdrawal penalty.
Tax Prep Checklist: Documents to Gather Before Filing
You can save significant time at tax time by preparing now. Here are the documents you should gather in advance of filing your taxes.
Custodial Roth IRA: What Is It And Where To Open One
What is a custodial Roth IRA and how does it work? Here’s everything you need to know about this retirement investment tool for children.
Itemized Deductions: Definition, Examples & When It’s The Right Option
What are itemized deductions? When should you itemize your deductions? Make an informed decision with this guide.
What Does Self-Employed Mean?
Are you self-employed or considering self-employment? Here is what you need to know about being your own boss.
1.3936.0+2.11.42