Kay Bell

Former contributing tax editor

Kay Bell is an award-winning journalist, blogger and author who, after spending almost 20 years in Washington, D.C., working on both Capitol Hill and in Fortune 500 companies' government relations offices, decided to focus on taxes. Noted for her ability to translate tax talk into money-saving English, she helped Bankrate.com in 1999 launch its comprehensive and respected tax coverage. Bell's tax insight and expertise make her a regular contributor on behalf of Bankrate to television and radio programs, as well as a source for other media outlet. From her career start as a daily newspaper reporter and editor in her native West Texas, Bell has written personal finance pieces for magazines, provided copy for investment company newsletters, is the author of the Financial Times book 'The Truth About Paying Fewer Taxes' and successfully transitioned to new media, writing not only online articles but also two tax blogs, 'Bankrate Taxes Blog' and her own 'Don't Mess With Taxes.' Bell lives in Austin, Texas. A graduate of Texas Tech University (B.A., Journalism), she is a member of her alma mater's College of Media and Communication professional advisory board. She also served a term on the Internal Revenue Service's Taxpayer Advocacy Panel.

Kay's latest articles

Your job search expenses may be tax-deductible

You can write off certain job-hunting expenses, but there are rules and limits.

2 min read Feb 28, 2017
Got a hobby? It might qualify as a business, with all the extra tax breaks

Tax breaks on hobby income are less favorable than for a business. Here’s how it works.

3 min read Feb 27, 2017
6 ways the IRS helps pay for education via tax-favored savings plans, other tax breaks

These tax breaks can help reduce college costs, and one even helps younger students.

4 min read Feb 20, 2017
Make sure your children are a credit to you by claiming the child tax credit

At tax time, parenthood can be a rewarding experience when claiming the child tax credit.

3 min read Feb 14, 2017
How alimony payments affect your taxes when you’re the payee or the payer

Do you pay or receive alimony payments? If so, pay attention to these tax rules.

2 min read Feb 10, 2017
Mileage deduction amounts for 2016 and 2017 go down instead of up

The IRS cut mileage deductions in each of the last two years due to declining costs.

1 min read Feb 08, 2017
When does it make sense for married folks to file separate tax returns?

Even if you’re usually inseparable, at tax time it may make sense to file separately.

3 min read Feb 07, 2017
Win a bet on the Super Bowl? Don’t forget to give Uncle Sam his cut

Whether you are a recreational or professional gambler, you must report your winnings.

6 min read Feb 06, 2017