As summer heats up, so do the opportunities to optimize your finances. While most people are thinking about vacations, weddings, or summer camps, the smart few are also thinking taxes — and that’s where the real savings begin.
At JS Morlu, we help our clients turn seasonal opportunities into long-term financial wins. Whether you’re navigating a new marriage, managing summer gig income, or planning energy-efficient upgrades, this guide breaks down the key summer tax strategies that can lighten your load and boost your returns.
Wedding Bells & W-4s: A Tax Checklist for Newlyweds
Summer is peak wedding season — and while your Instagram might be filled with bouquets and champagne, your inbox should include a few IRS updates too.
Here’s your newlywed tax survival kit:
✅ Joint vs. Separate Filing — Choose Wisely
- Filing jointly often lowers your tax rate, but it also means shared liability.
- If one partner has tax baggage (like back taxes or underreported income), that liability becomes yours too.
✅ Update Your Info:
- Address changes should go to USPS, the IRS (Form 8822), and your state agency.
- Name changes? Let the Social Security Administration know (Form SS-5) to prevent filing delays.
✅ Adjust Your Withholding:
- Your combined income may bump you into a higher tax bracket. Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to fine-tune your W-4s.
Summer Camps & Tax Credits: Claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit
Parents, rejoice! That day camp bill might just earn you a tax break.
Who qualifies?
- Children under 13
- Day camps only (overnight camps don’t count)
- You must work or be actively job-hunting while the child is in camp.
What’s the credit worth?
- Up to $3,000 for one child, or $6,000 for two or more
- The percentage ranges from 20% to 35% based on your AGI
Pro Tip: Keep those receipts and make sure the camp provides an EIN or SSN for IRS reporting.
Upgrade Your Home, Trim Your Taxes: Summer Energy Credit Tips
Thinking about that new HVAC system or solar panels? Uncle Sam might chip in.
Thanks to revamped energy efficiency credits, you could earn up to $3,200/year in tax savings for upgrades like:
- Energy Star-certified windows and doors
- Efficient heat pumps or AC units
- Solar panels or geothermal systems
Just make sure your contractor provides proper documentation and product certification. These credits are currently valid through 2025 — but may phase out afterward, so act soon.
Hurricane Season Prep: Safety and Savings
Living in a storm-prone area? Summer is prime time to protect your home — and your finances.
Tax-Savvy Prep Moves:
- Reinforce roofing and windows? Possible deduction under casualty loss prevention.
- Stocking up on supplies? Not deductible, but insurance premium adjustments might be.
- If FEMA declares a disaster area and you suffer loss, you can claim it for the prior year — helping you get faster relief.
Tip: Document improvements and keep “before and after” photos. It’s not just good insurance — it’s smart tax planning.
Delayed Winter Business Travel? Deduct It This Summer
Self-employed? Summer is perfect for catching up on travel postponed during winter’s chill.
Here’s what’s deductible:
- Transportation: airfare, mileage, taxis
- Lodging: 100% deductible if overnight
- Meals: 50% (unless you’re hosting clients, then special rules apply)
Don’t forget your receipts!
The IRS loves documentation. Keep a travel log, store digital copies of receipts, and separate business vs. personal expenses.
Employees: Note that business travel isn’t deductible unless reimbursed under an accountable plan.
Summer School Savings: Use Education Credits Wisely
Taking a class to finish a degree or build your skills? You might be eligible for:
American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC)
- Up to $2,500 per student
- Applies to degree-seeking students in their first four years
Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC)
- Up to $2,000 per tax return
- Available for any coursework, degree or not — great for working professionals!
Both credits have income limits, so check eligibility or consult with us to make sure you’re maximizing your education benefits.
Summer Jobs, Big Impact: Gig Workers & Teen Employees Take Note
If your teen landed a lifeguard gig or you’re picking up freelance work this summer, don’t overlook these tax must-dos:
For Part-Time Workers:
- Even if earnings are under the filing threshold, file anyway — you might be due a refund from withheld taxes.
For Gig Workers:
- You’ll likely receive a 1099-K or 1099-NEC. Yes, the IRS sees that too.
- Track all income and deductions (like mileage or supplies) — and plan for self-employment tax.
Check out the IRS Gig Economy Tax Center for helpful tools and calculators.
The Takeaway: Summer Is for Smart Tax Moves
At JS Morlu, we know summer isn’t just for beach days — it’s prime time to make strategic financial decisions. Whether you’re a small business owner, high-net-worth individual, or a newly married couple navigating joint finances, there’s a sunny side to summer taxes if you plan ahead.
Want to make sure you’re taking advantage of every seasonal tax benefit available? Schedule your consultation with JS Morlu today and let our expert team help you maximize your financial potential — rain or shine.
📞 Let’s Talk
Questions about your unique summer tax situation?
Call us at 703-594-4944 or email us for personalized guidance from our CPAs and tax strategists.