Celebrity News

Mary J. Blige Reportedly Owes More Than $1 Million In Back Taxes

Uncle Sam is one member of the family that will never get an invite to the cookout, but nevertheless, he slides through once a year to f*ck up everyone's good time. Procrastination is the creative woman's Achilles heel, and this can be especially dangerous when it comes to doing our taxes and apparently, celebrities aren't immune to this fact. Recently, Bossip reported that Mary J. Blige owes more than $1,000,000 in federal back taxes to the IRS, but after surviving a number of hefty lawsuits, foreclosure, and a messy divorce, we're sure Mary is going to be just fine.

To truly boss up in this world, you have to get control of your finances, and part of that means getting ahead of the IRS before tax day, and Auntie Mary said she had to learn this the hard way. Last year, in an interview the singer revealed that after the very public breakdown in her marriage with her ex Kendu Issacs, she's had to take a front seat when it comes to getting control of her financial situation.

"I'm just being straight-up honest. I never wanted to do all this stuff, but after what I've been through and all the mess that I'm in … You have to pay those taxes. It's good to see what you have and what you don't have — and why are we paying this person $5,000 a week?"

While Mary hasn't commented on her situation, we can learn a thing or two from her recent financial woes. Unlike body hair and bad days, taxes aren't something that just sneaks up on you without warning, and although tax day is 8 months away but it's never a bad idea to get started early.

With these pre-tax season tips, you might have 99 problems, but your finances during tax season won't be one of them.

Get Started Early

Giphy

Most business owners and independent contractors don't even think about their taxes until one or two months before they're due, and I can totally relate. But if you stay ready, you won't have to get ready, sis.

By organizing your finances well ahead of time, you can avoid any surprises that may arise and feel responsible AF.

Do Some Research

It never hurts to know your sh*t, especially when it comes to your finances. Tax codes change everyday b, and keeping up with these changes can save you a ton of money.

Much of the information you need is available on this section of IRS.Gov and Google should be your best friend before, during, and after tax season.

Hire a Tax Accountant

Giphy

There's no doubt in my mind that you are totally capable of doing your own taxes, especially after all that extensive research that you've done, but unless you're a tax preparer, there's probably someone who can do it better.

By hiring a tax account, not only are you saving time and focusing on areas of your life where your expertise is more valuable, but you're probably saving yourself a few bucks in the long run, too. A tax accountant that is familiar with clients in your line of work can work to your advantage in a major way when it comes to tax code changes and potential advantages.

Stay Organized

The easiest way to f*ck up your money is by not keeping it organized. I can personally attest to the fact that I have 300 receipts in my car console as we speak, and it's not okay. If you get organized before tax season, handling your finances won't seem so stressful because you won't be so frazzled.

Featured image by Phil Stafford / Shutterstock.com

Related Articles Around the Web
ALSO ON XONECOLE