Have you ever wondered if the Alternative Minimum Tax applies to you? You may have to pay this tax if your income is above a certain amount. The AMT attempts to ensure that some individuals who claim certain tax benefits pay a minimum amount of tax.

Here are some things from the IRS that you should know about AMT:

1. You may have to pay the tax if your taxable income, plus certain adjustments, is more than the AMT exemption amount for your filing status. If your income is below this amount, you usually will not owe AMT.
2. The 2013 AMT exemption amounts for each filing status are:
   • Single and Head of Household = $51,900
   • Married Filing Joint and Qualifying Widow(er) = $80,800
   • Married Filing Separate = $40,400
3. The rules for AMT are more complex than the rules for regular income tax. The best way to make it easy on yourself is to use IRS e-file to prepare and file your tax return. E-file tax software will figure AMT for you if you owe it.
4. If you file a paper return, use the AMT Assistant tool on IRS.gov to find out if you may need to pay the tax.
5. If you owe AMT, you usually must file Form 6251, Alternative Minimum Tax – Individuals. Some taxpayers who owe AMT can file Form 1040A and use the AMT Worksheet in the instructions.

Visit IRS.gov to find out more about AMT. Also, see the Form 6251 instructions. You can get it at IRS.gov too or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Additional IRS Resources:

• Tax Topic 556 – Alternative Minimum Tax

You don’t need to be a tax expert to run a business, but knowing the basics about taxes can help you run it better. You’ll find the basics and much more at the IRS.gov Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center.

Whether you’re new to a business or been with it awhile, the Tax Center can help. You can apply for an Employer Identification Number, get a form or learn about employment taxes. The Center also includes these resources:

• IRS Video Portal.  Watch helpful videos and webinars on many topics. Find out about filing and paying business taxes or about how the IRS audit process works. Under the ‘Businesses’ tab, look for the ’Small Biz Workshop.’ Watch it when you want to learn the basics about small business taxes.
• Online Tools and Educational Products.  The list of Small Business products includes the Tax Calendar for Small Businesses and Self-Employed. Install the IRS CalendarConnector tool and access important tax dates and tips right from your smart phone or computer, even when you’re offline.
• Small Business Events.  Find out about free IRS small business workshops and other eventsplanned in your state.

Go to the Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center and use the A-Z index to find whatever you need.