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With all the talk about the ‘fiscal cliff,’ you may be wondering how it will affect you and your family.

Much of that isn’t quite clear yet, but there is something to be sure – one of the first places you might notice a change is in your tax return.

Experts say expect your tax return to be smaller.

A number of credits and deductions have already expired or will soon expire. That will hit us in the pocketbook.

It’s too early to know how the tax code will change, but we know this:

1. Expect less take home pay. The Social Security payroll tax is going back up a couple percent, climbing to the original 6.2%. It had been 4.2% for the last two years.
2. Expect to see fewer credits and deductions on this year’s tax form. For instance, Congress eliminated the adoption tax credit.
3. Getting a refund may take longer this year. Tax experts expect processing time will take longer, and electronic filing won’t begin until January 27.

There are some things to think about as you prepare for tax season.

First, start getting organized. Sort through receipts and important paperwork and put them all in one place.

And figure out online or with the help of a tax professional if you have the right amount of tax withholding on your W-2.