The strip

THINGS I WISH MY KIDS WOULD ASK ME

Editor's note: Barry Courter has a 24-year-old son who is a college graduate and a 19-year-old daughter who is a freshman in college.

Q: Dad, what's the deal with owing so much in taxes this year?

A: It's a kick in the gut, isn't it? Especially when you don't plan for it. Some people prefer to play less in taxes each paycheck so they have it during the year. In this case, you need to plan on paying out when tax time comes around. Some have more deducted each pay period so they receive a refund. They plan vacations and such around getting a refund. You can speak to the payroll person at your office about whichever you prefer.

Upcoming Events