Category: Brandpoint

2018-03-07T14:01:01

(BPT) – Outdoor hardscape projects add resale value to a home as well as bring extra enjoyment to homeowners while they are living in the home, according to the “Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features” by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP).

The report confirms that investing in landscaping and hardscaping is a win-win, whether you plan to stay in your home or prepare it for market.

“This report validates that outdoor remodeling and landscaping improvements are a necessity when it comes to improving your home’s resale value,” said Missy Henriksen, NALP vice president of public affairs. “Homeowners working with a landscape professional to embark on renovations — whether that means enhancing their turf and growing a lush lawn, overhauling their entire landscape, or incorporating new features like patios or exterior fireplaces — can rest assured that they are making a smart, worthwhile investment.”

Curb appeal

Real estate agents suggest that a home’s first impression is paramount when preparing it for sale. Simple updates such as adding retaining wall units or paving stone edging around gardens add value and curb appeal. More ambitious projects like a front paving stone entrance with patio and a seat wall or two add major curb appeal plus the enjoyment factor from adding a beautiful, functional front yard.

Varying hardscape colors and textures in the front outdoor living space lends maximum visual appeal. Hardscapes also can make routine maintenance easier, such as creating a tree ring from retaining wall units and surrounding it with pavers to reduce the need for trimming after mowing.

Making unusable space usable

A family in Maple Grove, Minnesota, had a hill behind their home that sloped down to a pond. They knew that excavating would be required and contacted Villa Landscapes in St. Paul to help them decide how best to make use of the space.

“The Versa-Lok Standard retaining wall system was perfect for retaining the soil behind the garage when we excavated to create their outdoor living space,” said Lonny Sekeres, a designer with Villa Landscapes. “There are no voids in the units to backfill, and the top-down pinning system made the installation easy. By back-splitting the retaining wall units, we easily created matching freestanding seat walls around the fire feature area too. Plus, the same unit was used to create columns that provide a base for a pergola while giving a nice definition to the outdoor living space.”

Prevent erosion

Damage to your property can devalue a home plus create major headaches. Retaining wall systems are essential in preventing erosion, controlling grade changes in a yard, and preventing damage to the landscape, and in certain environments, even damage to your home.

One homeowner in Apple Valley, Minnesota, had a steep, unusable backyard that sloped toward the home’s foundation. Over the years, water damage to the foundation occurred.

“The negative flow caused water damage, a leaky foundation and the accumulation of dirt that had been eroding down the slope for years,” said Paul Devine, owner and principal of Devine Design Hardscapes in Rosemount, Minnesota. “There was no flat, usable area at the base of the hill, and the client had never been able to grow grass because of constant erosion. The Versa-Lok wall design created a positive flow away from the home’s foundation, steps to the top of the hill, and a flat, usable area for a backyard.”

Devine created a tiered retaining wall design with ample space for perennials and a staggered staircase with landings that feature seat walls for resting.

Safety and privacy

Seat walls can add a measure of privacy and protection against the elements, and energy-efficient landscape lighting can be installed along patios, paver walkways and under retaining wall caps for nighttime ambiance and functionality. Landscape professionals can suggest how adding these and other hardscape elements can increase value and offer measures of safety and privacy.

In the end, investing in your home’s landscape with hardscapes is a long-term win-win, no matter how long you stay in your home or if you are preparing it for sale. Says Henriksen: “Further, that investment is coupled with the immediate happiness received by beautiful landscaping and the long-term enjoyment of outdoor living spaces, which are priceless.”

2018-03-06T06:01:00

(BPT) – As the hub of activity in a home, the kitchen serves many purposes: meal prep base, dining area, family gathering place, celebration zone, and entertainment center, to name a few. Does your high-use, heart-of-the-home kitchen meet the challenges and needs of your family life?

If not, then it’s time for a renovation. A kitchen remodel can be inspired by lifestyle changes, the need for energy efficiency, upgrading of decades-old styling, or simply that you are ready for a change. The good news is that remodeling the most used room in your house not only improves the space itself, it increases the overall value of your home.

Research from Remodeling magazine shows homeowners who undergo a mid-range kitchen remodel can expect to recoup 81 percent of their spend upon selling their home. A major kitchen remodel will recoup 59 percent, according to the same study. With statistics like these, remodeling your kitchen has the potential to be good for you now and in the future.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your kitchen remodeling project today. Here are six ideas, ranging from minor to major:

* Replace your faucet. For the amount you use your kitchen faucet, functionality and ease-of-use should be top priorities — highlighted with stylish designs lines, of course. The Avery Selectronic hands-free pull-down kitchen faucet from American Standard features a three-function spray that can handle any kitchen challenge. Plus, this high-arc touchless faucet offers flexibility to suit user preference — simply switch to manual function for guests not familiar with touchless operation.

* Paint your cabinets. If replacing your kitchen cabinets is not in the budget this year, repainting them is the next best thing. A fresh coat of paint can dramatically change the appearance of your kitchen. Select a paint that dries hard so it can stand up to wear and tear; choose a satin finish paint to hide imperfections in the cabinet surface. To complete the look, consider replacing the cabinet hardware. Pick the style that appeals most to you and remember knobs are more common on cabinets, handles on drawers.

* Add a backsplash. Create an instant wow factor by enhancing the walls above the work areas of your kitchen. The use of varying shapes and materials can really showcase your creative side. Today’s homeowners are choosing larger sized subway tiles, introducing a bit more color to this traditionally neutral-colored area of the kitchen, experimenting with varying tile patterns, and choosing metallic and mirrored finishes. Extending the backsplash all the way to the ceiling, with the use of shelving instead of cabinets for storage, is a new trend gaining ground. Whatever your choice, a new backsplash can delight you every time you enter the kitchen.

* Elevate your faucet. For homeowners who enjoy crafting delectable meals for family and friends, an upgrade to the GROHE Essence semi-pro faucet provides the perfect combination of modern functionality and high style. It features convenient one-hand operation, full 360-degree sink mobility and two high-performance sprays. Plus, this high-arc faucet features a flexible silicone hose that can be easily replaced in a variety of rainbow colors for an instant kitchen “perk-up.”

* Explore sink options. Whether it’s for food preparation, dish washing or bathing a small child, families depend on the kitchen sink for a lot of things. The DXV Hillside stainless steel sink exhibits the rich character of popular farmhouse sink styling with a refined sophistication ideal for the modern kitchen. Made from 16-gauge stainless steel, its clean apron-front design makes it perfect for under-counter, flush countertop or above-counter custom installation. The result is a high-style sink that can meet any kitchen need.

* Change out those cabinets. While repainting cabinets can change the look of your kitchen, replacing them can totally upgrade the room’s core style and functionality. Select new cabinets based on the current needs of your kitchen, considering accessories that can improve functionality. Think slow-close drawers and doors, turntable corner cabinets, pull-out trash can cabinets, plus many innovative storage features. The choice of design styles — framed or frameless — will impact your kitchen’s look. Cabinets vary in price, depending on whether they are stock, semi-custom or custom. With kitchen cabinets accounting for up to 40 percent of a full kitchen remodeling budget, invest time in choosing the style and function that will make you love your new kitchen.

Whatever your level of kitchen remodeling, these upgrades are sure to make life easier and more enjoyable in a room that is the focal “living” room in any home. Go ahead and plan your renovations today — and experience the benefits for years to come.

2018-03-15T10:45:00

(BPT) – Technology is trending in home design and decor this year, and some of the most dramatic, futuristic and fun tech trends are showing up in the bathroom. From glass doors and windows changing from clear to opaque with the touch of a button to toilets transforming the whole experience of going to the loo, it’s all about high-tech tricking out your oasis.

Here are four tech trends that will take your bathroom into hyperspace.

1. Privacy glass

Glass blocks are opaque but let in some filtered light; blinds or shades get in the way. The answer? Privacy glass. It is an ultra-futuristic special adhesive film that’s cut to fit your existing glass doors and windows. Tap an app on your smartphone and transform your glass from opaque to transparent instantly. (Alien technology? We can neither confirm nor deny that.) It gives you privacy when you need it and lets the sun shine in when you don’t, and eliminates the need for shades or blinds, giving your bathroom a sleek, clean look.

2. High-tech toilets

This is not your father’s WC. Toilets today offer technologically advanced features like sensor-operated seats and lids, night lights, deodorizers, self-cleaning technologies and heated seats.

A toilet with a TOTO WASHLET electronic bidet seat is a coup de loo that leaves you cleaner and more refreshed than you’ve ever felt after a bathroom break. Operated by remote control, it’s completely hands-free and offers comfortable, warm, aerated water to cleanse, warm air dryer and heated seat. No need for toilet paper.

The Aquia IV High-Efficiency Toilet Dual Flush and WASHLET+ S550e combine seamlessly (no visible cords or hoses). This elegant design features high-tech innovations to make your life cleaner, healthier, less complicated and more beautiful — auto-open/close seat and lid, electrolyzed water to keep your toilet bowl hygienic without harsh chemicals (better for the environment and your pocketbook), and in-bowl deodorizer. The new DYNAMAX TORNADO Dual-Flush Technology cleans the entire bowl and rim with 360 degrees of cyclonic rinsing action. Its CEFIONTECT glazed surface is smooth down to the nano level, preventing matter from adhering to its surfaces. Visit www.totousa.com to learn more.

3. High-tech warmers

While a warm bathroom floor isn’t new, some manufacturers are taking it up a notch by making it digital. These systems feature a mat that’s installed under your tile. It’s Wi-Fi enabled and connected to a digital thermostat that you control from your smartphone.

Make your towels toasty, too, with a towel warmer. Pop your towel into what looks like an ordinary bathroom cabinet, but it’s really a hidden, stainless steel warming drawer, and your towels will be toasty by the time you’re finished with your shower.

4. Digital steam spa

You don’t need a major remodel to get a steam shower. There are kits for that! They’re digitally operated steam generators that even include aromatherapy features (think eucalyptus steam when you’re stuffy with a cold).

The bathroom is the place where you start and end your days, your oasis for renewal. With these new high-tech products, you can design your perfect retreat.

2018-03-15T07:01:01

(BPT) – Owning your own home is a life accomplishment for many adults, and keeping it looking sharp and adding your personal touches brings a sense of pride. It seems there are always things you want to improve, so don’t let a limited budget or lack of know-how hold you back from dreaming. There are plenty of ways to enhance a room or remake a space without breaking the bank, along with many resources out there to show you how.

With a little research and a weekend or two of elbow grease, your budget and your abilities are more than enough to take on many smaller jobs. When you’re done, the satisfaction you’ll experience from a successful DIY project will give you plenty of motivation to start the next improvement.

Before you launch your plans, here are a few tips for an affordable and stress-free DIY project.

1. Map it out

Prioritize the projects you’d like to tackle first. Whether it’s painting the living room, replacing the kitchen countertops or retiling the bathroom, the project will be much less stressful when you have solid planning behind it. Set a realistic schedule, gather your supplies in advance and be sure and review instructions before starting. If you’re making an improvement for a special event or out-of-town guests, give yourself ample time to complete it so you’re not adding stress to the project.

2. Find creative ways to cover costs

Make a budget for your project that includes a list of expected expenses and add padding for the unexpected. Assess what funds you have available, and if you don’t have enough, consider a savings plan so you can avoid paying interest and fees on a credit card. To speed up your progress, grab your change jar and bring it to a Coinstar kiosk where you can select cash or a no-fee eGift card from retailers including Amazon.com, Lowe’s, Home Depot and Sears. You’ll be surprised at how quickly a jar of coins can add up to purchase needed supplies on your list.

3. Learn through many available resources

If you’re like most DIYers, you’ll find online videos and home improvement websites are great sources for how-to tips and information. And if you’re a novice, take advantage of the vast information that’s available at your fingertips and review several sources so that you completely understand the process and are confident before your dive in. Don’t be afraid to tap friends, family members and neighbors who have completed similar projects, as they can be good advisers and may even offer to help! You can reward them by inviting them back to your newly improved home to just relax and enjoy.

4. Keep it light

Doing DIY projects with a spouse or a family member can be fun if you take the right approach. When working alongside each other, it’s all too easy to take a frustration out on each other. Two-thirds of those surveyed in a recent Coinstar survey said they do projects with others in their household, and 65 percent said they got into a disagreement during a home DIY project. Minimize tension by creating clear expectations and give everyone a defined role. Take needed breaks and acknowledge accomplishments along the way. Keeping things calm and positive ensures everyone feels good about their contribution.

5. Permission to make mistakes

Most homeowners are not professional contractors and projects can and do go wrong. If you make a mistake, do your best to correct it and don’t beat yourself up. Focus on the fact you’re making progress in getting your house just the way you want it and saving money by doing it yourself. Next time, you will be that much more proficient! According to the survey, 90 percent of homeowners say they feel a sense of pride after completing a DIY project. Pat yourself on the back and plan your next DIY endeavor!

To learn more about how Coinstar can help you find the cash you need for your next DIY project, visit coinstar.com.

2018-03-26T15:57:00

(BPT) – The snow has melted, flowers are beginning to bloom, and you wake to the sound of birds chirping: all signs that spring is here. Spring means time to give your lawn the TLC it needs, but most of us dread the thought of weekends spent occupied by yard work. Luckily, in 2018, getting that perfectly green grass and enviable garden does not have to be hard.

* Prevent disease and pests — Disease and pests can be stopped before they strike. At the beginning of the season, use your yard rake to remove any dead grass shoots. By removing this debris early you can prevent disease and pests while also giving your lawn sufficient time to recover.

* Simplify mowing — Cutting the grass no longer requires preparation and setup. With innovative options like the Greenworks 60-volt self-propelled lawn mower, you do not need to worry about gassing up your mower or finding the nearest outlet for the extension cord. The mower can run up to 60 minutes with a fully-charged battery, so it is ready to go when you are, and you never have to smell like gas again! The mower’s smart-cut technology adjusts the power based on the thickness of your grass, extending the run time and improving cutting performance.

* Water on time — Consistency in watering is an easy way to keep your grass green and lush. Maintain a schedule to prevent your grass from drying out and browning. Sprinklers and outdoor timers will ensure that your grass does not miss a watering session.

* Shape hedges — Anyone can create the perfect hedge shape. Now that your grass is healthy, freshly cut and weed-free, it is time to focus on the rest of your yard. Try a cordless, battery-powered product like the Greenworks 60-volt hedge trimmer. The lighter weight and strong power allow you to trim your hedges without wearing out your body. Whether your hedges are up high or running along your fence, no place is out of reach.

Spring is just beginning and now is the time to get a jump start on your lawn. To learn more about the tools that can make lawn care easier this spring, visit www.greenworkstools.com.

2018-03-23T09:01:00

(BPT) – Life moves pretty fast, especially on a weeknight when the commute is long or the kids have their evening homework and activities. On top of it all, everyone is turning to you for a hot meal.

For a simple solution to your dinnertime needs, there’s one option that reduces time spent in the kitchen: the frozen food aisle. Here are five reasons why you should take a moment to explore your grocer’s freezer section to keep your evenings running smoothly.

1. Save steps during meal prep

Food from the freezer section is specially made to save you time in the kitchen. Behind those glass doors are plenty of key ingredients, ready to add to the pot, oven or microwave for a hot dinner in minutes. Here, you’ll find your protein of choice is already portioned and seasoned, and vegetables are cleaned, peeled or pared. You can even pick up precooked whole grains, such as rice, quinoa and risotto, saving valuable cook time and cleanup.

2. Enjoy bold new flavors in minutes

The frozen food aisle is teeming with flavor-packed, restaurant-inspired entrees, appetizers and sides you can use to spice up your weekly menu. Options like SeaPak Selections Shrimp Wonton Soup and Thai Coconut Shrimp Soup are ready at the press of a button and go from freezer to table in just 6 minutes. These ultra-convenient solutions are a healthy and delicious choice that everyone will enjoy, no matter the time of day.

3. It lets you stock up

Frozen foods maintain their quality for far longer than their fresh counterparts. Next time you make your grocery list, stock up on your favorite frozen staples and mealtime essentials so you’re ready to roll whenever hunger strikes, even when life gets crazy.

4. Convenience at a nicer price

When it comes to saving money at the grocery store, nothing beats the affordable prices in the frozen food aisle. It’s a great place to look for deals on prepared proteins, like seafood, and snag a delicious meal for a fraction of what you might spend at a restaurant.

5. Locked-in freshness and flavor

Frozen options taste just as good — sometimes even better — than their non-frozen counterparts. Flash frozen at peak freshness, frozen foods lock in their nutrients and delicious flavor until you’re ready to heat them up. If your favorite fruit or veggie isn’t in season, no problem! A flavorful option awaits in your grocer’s freezer section.

While life can be hectic with the hustle and bustle of busy schedules, the frozen food aisle can help you make delicious meals in minutes. Be sure to take a little time to check out what’s new in the frozen section during your next shopping trip and discover the many tasty mealtime solutions that await.

2018-03-22T14:01:00

(BPT) – Let your soul experience one of the most stunning and pristine places on earth, Western Australia’s Kimberley. Its coastline is so unspoiled, dinosaur footprints still smatter the rocks. Its oceans are so untouched, whales nurse their young in its warm waters. Its indigenous culture is so ancient, no other can match it. The Kimberley is more than a remarkable region in Western Australia; it’s one of the most fascinating and least explored places in the world. As world travelers seek unexplored destinations, The Kimberley has been added to their bucket list of dream vacations. This is a place that commands explorers to indulge in its many wonders.

A last true wilderness

Both magical and rugged, Western Australia’s Kimberley is one of the few last wilderness areas, like Alaska, Galapagos, Antarctica and the Amazon, where you feel the rawness of the earth and the wonder of nature with an ancient story. Immediately, there is a deep intangible presence in the Kimberley that is at once powerful yet calming. Night-blooming flowers from the giant Boab trees make the air fragrant while the night sky glitters with millions of stars.

The gateway to the Kimberley is the small pearling town of Broome, home to some of the largest and most prized pearls, where camel rides on Cable Beach is part of everyday life and where nine sets of dinosaur footprints cast as massive fossils. The influence of the pearling industry, with its melting pot of cultures and cuisines, has helped to create the distinctive character and charm of Broome, which offers select beach resorts, a unique calendar of events and exquisite dining options, including locally caught fresh seafood.

Modern means of exploration

The best way to experience the Kimberley is through expedition cruising. A unique collection of companies operate boats that take passengers to the region’s most pristine beaches and reefs, to towering waterfalls so close you can feel the fresh mist on your face, through ancient gorges, and to 350-million-year-old rock formations. Through expedition cruising, you will likely place your footstep where no one before you has ever been.

In this remote setting, visitors can encounter the true icons in Western Australia’s North West, including the natural phenomenon of the Horizontal Falls, the majestic 260-foot-tall King George Falls, and the Rowley Shoals featuring coral atolls home to 700 tropical fish species and considered among the best dive spots in the world, where not more than 500 people visit in a year.

Adventure need not be rugged

Just because you’re exploring one of the last untouched wildernesses on the planet doesn’t mean you can’t indulge.

Both adventurous and luxurious, Kimberley cruises bring the savvy traveler to places few humans have seen while offering them the comforts of a delicious meal showcasing local flavors (or your own catch of the day), soft beds, and services that connect travelers with the people and the land.

Every cruise is different. Many have on-board naturalists and experts that guide excursions and open the wonders of the region to curious passengers. Some high-end cruises have a helicopter to take you to the top of the cliffs and give you an unrivaled view of this unforgettable world.

Before heading to the Kimberley, explore Western Australia’s capital city Perth, home to many extraordinary experiences, including one of the world’s largest inner city parks, stunning metro beaches, a lively food and wine scene, marine encounters, and the State’s oldest wine region. Perth is the fastest-growing (and sunniest!) city in Australia.

To find the cruise that’s right for you, check out the Kimberley Expedition Cruise Guide, an invaluable resource that showcases a number of companies offering world-class excursions throughout this stunning region, or visit Down Under Answers, Qantas Vacations and Southern World.

2018-03-22T12:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is officially here, bringing flowers, greenery and increased pest activity. Because termite evidence is more noticeable in warmer months, it is important to check for any warning signs every spring. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce the likelihood of a termite infestation in the first place.

Keep shrubs trimmed

Well-maintained shrubbery looks nice, but it also serves an important purpose: Trimming shrubs reduces the likelihood termites and pests will enter your home. Stray branches that touch a house’s exterior provide pests with direct access to potential entry points. By properly maintaining landscaping, you can make access more difficult for these unwelcome houseguests.

Modify your landscape

It’s important to make smart decisions when adding landscaping, because termites are more attracted to some materials than others. Instead of traditional mulch, opt for synthetic mulch or pea gravel. These alternatives are less attractive to termites than wood-based mulch.

Maintain home exteriors

Termites need water to survive. Controlling excess moisture can help reduce the risk of an infestation. Regularly maintaining home exteriors, such as wooden siding and windows, can help you detect and repair leaks early.

Monitor interior moisture

Many homeowners forget to think about moisture inside their homes, particularly in basements and crawlspaces. Properly ventilating these areas helps minimize the amount of moisture around floor joists and subflooring. Reducing moisture in interior spaces can help reduce the likelihood that termites will take up residence in your home.

If you suspect you may have a termite problem, the best solution is to call a pest professional such as Terminix. Termite warning signs include blisters in wood flooring, hollowed or damaged wood, and evidence of swarms such as discarded wings, mud tubes and droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. Early detection can prevent a small termite problem from becoming a widespread infestation.

2018-03-22T10:01:01

(BPT) – Spring is in full swing, which means it’s time to reinvigorate your kitchen with a new look! When planning your refresh, consider these simple, stylish swaps that don’t require investing tons of time or budget.

Upgrade your kitchen fixtures

Faucets often serve as the centerpiece of the kitchen. Replacing an outdated model is an easy way to give your space a facelift. Choose a piece that’s as functional as it is fashionable such as the Delta Allentown Faucet, available at The Home Depot. This faucet offers an industrial, versatile design and tech-savvy appeal for every modern homeowner. Complete with TempSense Technology, the faucet will notify you when water has reached your desired temperature through coded LED light colors.

Liven up your cabinets

Small changes can make all the difference. Replacing outdated cabinet knobs and drawer pulls can give your space a fresh streamlined look with minimal effort. Dated accessories can weigh down the aesthetic of the entire room. Instead, replace with hardware in a bold bronze or sleek matte black finish.

Enhance simple walls

Play with textures to create a more intriguing space. Replace flat wall paint with a backsplash made from unique materials, such as faux-brick, salvaged wood or stainless-steel subway tile. A textured surface touting quality and distinction lends a design-forward aesthetic without breaking the bank.

Embrace the unexpected

Replace traditional décor with curated accents to elevate the space and delight the eye. Incorporate a plush patterned rug or paint cabinets with an on-trend hue of blue, gray and green, such as Behr’s Color of the Year titled, “In the Moment.” Most importantly, remember to let your personality shine by adding items that have special meaning. Whether it’s a set of vintage bronze candlesticks you found at a local antique shop or artwork purchased on vacation, unanticipated personal pieces often create storytelling moments and receive the very best of compliments.

For more design inspiration, visit DeltaFaucet.com/design-innovation/inspiredliving.

2018-03-22T09:01:01

(BPT) – The April 17 tax filing deadline is quickly approaching. While many are excited about the possibility of a tax refund, nearly 1 in 3 taxpayers waits until April to file their return. Whether filing online or meeting with a tax professional, H&R Block shares three tips to help make the final stretch of the tax season less daunting.

1. Get organized

Keeping good records is the foundation for everything else because you can’t deduct what you haven’t documented. Take the time to complete a paper chase and find all tax and financial documents and related information needed to file a tax return. It may be easier to use a customized tax preparation checklist to help you make sure you aren’t missing important documents. Missing tax documents can lead to missing out on tax benefits you are entitled to claim.

Consider starting with your previous year tax return, then track all income and receipts, and finally document each. After that, separate business-only bank accounts and credit cards to make it easier to keep good records and file accurate tax returns. Remember to secure paper and digital records in a safe place like MyBlock, and make sure you back them up too.

2. Don’t overlook credits and deductions

The tax refund is the single largest financial transaction many taxpayers will have in a year. The stakes can be high and mistakes can be costly, especially when it comes to life changes — getting married, having a baby, buying or selling a home, sending a child off to college or retiring. Not understanding how these life changes can impact your return causes many taxpayers to make mistakes and leave money on the table. In fact, the IRS announces annually that approximately $1 billion goes unclaimed in federal tax refunds.

Most taxpayers file their taxes using the standard deduction, but you may be eligible for a variety of deductions or credits that could possibly save you more, including:

* Education benefits: Federal tax credits can help offset the costs of higher education for yourself or your dependents — depending on your academic program, what year the student is in, etc. To qualify, you must pay for post-secondary tuition and fees for yourself, your spouse or your dependent.

* Earned Income Tax Credit for lower-income workers: Twenty percent of eligible taxpayers, particularly lower-income workers, do not claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Keep in mind that eligibility may fluctuate based on financial, marital and parental status, which may cause taxpayers to be ineligible one year, but eligible the next. Also, people tend to overlook the EITC because they may not earn enough income to have to file a return. Remember that the EITC is a refundable credit, so even those who don’t need to file a return can still claim the credit.

* Itemizing deductions: Itemizing can save taxpayers hundreds of dollars, as only 1 in 3 taxpayers itemize, but millions more should. Owning a home is often the key that unlocks itemization, but some taxpayers with high state taxes and charitable contributions may also be able to itemize.

3. Avoid common filing pitfalls

Selecting the wrong filing status can affect which credits and deductions you are eligible for, the value of your standard deduction and your tax bracket. In addition, common clerical errors such as mixing up names, forgetting to include information reported on your W-2, 1099 or other forms, or even making mathematical errors can also affect your tax benefits.

Not filing at all is even worse — as the penalty for not filing a tax return is 10 times greater than the penalty for not paying in full. The best way to avoid this penalty, which could add up to 25 percent to your tax bill, is to file a completed tax return or apply for an extension. An extension to file is not an extension to pay any taxes you might owe. To avoid a penalty, you will need to estimate what you owe and pay at least 90 percent by April 17.

To ensure you get the maximum refund without delay this year, or if you find yourself filing incorrectly, visit hrblock.com for more information, to make an appointment with a tax professional or to start your own tax return online for free.