G2 has announced the Spring 2025 reports, and 101 Blockchains came out as a top performer again with 32 badges. Thanks to this extraordinary outcome, we can proudly state that we are one of the leading platforms for professional training and accredited certification in blockchain technology. Our efforts to expand our training library have helped us provide learners with new resources on web3 technologies, AI, fintech, and IoT. 

The G2 Spring 2025 Reports solidify our existing reputation as the top online course provider for technical skill development. We have garnered the appreciation of our users, which is the biggest reason why we have achieved multiple ‘High Performer’ badges. 

Most importantly, we have earned the ‘Users Love Us’ badge once again in another consecutive G2 Report. It signifies the unwavering love and trust of our users in our courses, certifications, and services. Let us show you some more details about what we have achieved in the G2 Spring Reports for 2025.

Check Now: 101 Blockchains Reviews at G2

Key Takeaways for 101 Blockchains in G2 Spring 2025 Reports

101 Blockchains began its journey as a pioneering platform for blockchain education and research with a few training courses and certification programs. In the last few years, we have evolved as one of the leading platforms for blockchain training and certification with a massive library of courses. Thousands of working professionals from top companies have used our courses and accredited certifications for their professional growth. On top of it, we have also introduced courses and certifications on new technologies, such as fintech, AI, IoT, and web3. 

You can find the proof of our commitment to becoming one of the best in the business in our training library. The collection of more than 60 professional training courses showcases that we didn’t aim to become just another blockchain course provider; we strive to be the best. Over the course of time, we have introduced new courses, masterclasses, and certifications to offer better opportunities for skill development. 

We also provide various types of learning resources, including free courses on blockchain fundamentals, ebooks, on-demand webinars, presentations, and flashcards.  Our learning plans offer distinctive benefits like unlimited access to the entire training library and the opportunity to become a member of a community of experts. We empower our learners in their professional journey with our Job Portal, which is the ideal platform to find jobs according to your skills and career path.

The latest G2 Report announcement brings good news for everyone at 101 Blockchains as the findings serve as a very positive review of our performance. The results of the reports showcase proof of our dedication to becoming one of the top online course providers. We have achieved 32 badges in the latest reports by G2 in two categories, i.e., Online Course Providers and Technical Skill Development. However, the biggest achievement for us in the new G2 reports is the ‘Users Love Us’ badge.

Our performance in the recently announced G2 reports is a testament to the fact that we have successfully delivered technical education to our target audience. How? Most of the badges we have received in the two categories are the ‘High Performer’ badges for different types of customers in different markets. We have also earned the ‘Users Most Likely to Recommend’ badge in the Technical Skills Development category. The new badges we have earned in this year’s spring G2 report include the ‘Fastest Implementation’, ‘Easiest Setup and ‘Easiest Admin’ badges.

Check 101 Blockchains’ Performance in:

G2 Winter 2024 Reports
G2 Summer 2024 Reports
G2 Fall 2024 Reports

What Have We Accomplished in the G2 Spring 2025 Reports?

The G2 reports for Spring 2025 have shown us a clear overview of our top performance as an online course provider for technical skills development. We acknowledge the G2 Spring 2025 Reports and their findings as a review of our competence as a professional skill development platform. The results of the reports have been awarded with badges that showcase how we have successfully helped our customers solve their educational-related problems. As a ‘High Performer’ in different markets worldwide and a favorite of businesses of all sizes, 101 Blockchains has achieved recognition for excellence in service.

G2 has rewarded us with 32 badges for acknowledging our role as a professional platform for technical skill development. Every year, G2 shows us a clear impression of how we have performed in each quarter. The badges offered by G2 have helped us evaluate our performance and have guided us through the journey of continuous improvement. We believe in the judgment of G2 as it evaluates performance by using authentic reviews of users who have actually used our courses and accredited certifications. Here are the notable badges we have achieved in each category in the Spring 2025 reports by G2.

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Online Course Providers

We have achieved 15 badges in the Online Course Providers category of the G2 Reports for Spring 2025. It is a special category dedicated to the evaluation of platforms that provide self-paced training courses. We have achieved 12 ‘High Performer’ badges in this category and one ‘Fastest Implementation’, ‘Easiest Setup’, and ‘Easiest Admin’ badge each. The ‘High Performer’ badges for small businesses, enterprise clients, and different markets worldwide showcase proof of our growth. Here is a list of the badges we’ve earned in the Online Course Providers category.

• High Performer Online Course Providers
• High Performer Enterprise Online Course Providers
• High Performer Small-Business Online Course Providers
• Fastest Implementation Online Course Providers
• Easiest Setup Online Course Providers
• Easiest Admin Online Course Providers
• High Performer Middle East & Africa Online Course Providers
• High Performer United Kingdom Online Course Providers
• High Performer Europe Online Course Providers
• High Performer EMEA Online Course Providers
• High Performer Asia Online Course Providers
• High Performer Asia Pacific Online Course Providers
• High Performer Small-Business Middle East & Africa Online Course Providers
• High Performer Small-Business Europe Online Course Providers
• High Performer Small-Business EMEA Online Course Providers

Technical Skills Development 

The Technical Skills Development category in the G2 Report focuses on the evaluation of platforms that offer resources to learn technical skills. We have earned 16 badges in this category, with all of them being the ‘High Performer’ badges, except one ‘Users Most Likely to Recommend’ badge. The ability to address the needs for technical skills development for businesses of different sizes and in different markets will push us forward to long-term growth. Here is a list of badges we have earned in the Technical Skills Development category.

• High Performer Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Enterprise Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Canada Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Southeast Asia Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Middle East & Africa Technical Skills Development
• High Performer EMEA Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Europe Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Asia Pacific Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Asia Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Small-Business Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Small-Business Europe Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Small-Business Middle East & Africa Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Small-Business EMEA Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Small-Business Asia Technical Skills Development
• High Performer Small-Business Asia Pacific Technical Skills Development
• Users Most Likely To Recommend Technical Skills Development

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Users Love Us

The most coveted achievement for us in all the G2 Reports is the ‘Users Love Us’. You may wonder why we are so excited about this badge when we have achieved 31 other badges. The special thing about the ‘Users Love Us’ badge is that it recognizes the effort of everyone at 101 Blockchains. It is a credential awarded to only a few platforms that earn user trust, evaluated through genuine user feedback and reviews. The badge is proof of the fact that our users are happy with our products and services. It also shows that they have taken some time to write a good word for us.

Final Thoughts 

The list of badges we have earned in the G2 Spring 2025 Reports is a reward we look forward to with anticipation. We have used G2 reports as the benchmark of our performance and capabilities to deliver excellent technical education to our learners. Over the course of time, we have evolved into a comprehensive technical skill training platform. You can not only learn about blockchain but also AI, fintech, and IoT with our courses. As we introduce new courses and certifications, the G2 badges will push us a little higher to accomplish our dreams. Become a part of the 101 Blockchains community and shape your dreams into reality now.

The post G2 Spring 2025 Reports: 101 Blockchains Earned Record-breaking 32 Badges appeared first on 101 Blockchains.

The Bitcoin blockchain is almost similar to a secure digital vault safeguarded with an unbreakable chain. Every transaction on the Bitcoin blockchain stays there for eternity, without the fear of anyone modifying the transaction details. The capability of Bitcoin blockchain to revolutionize money is obviously one of its biggest strengths. You must also know about a unique opcode, OP_RETURN in Bitcoin, to understand how Bitcoin can store arbitrary data.

It is important to note that storing arbitrary data is not about saving your family photos on the Bitcoin blockchain. On the contrary, it focuses on embedding small and immutable chunks of information that open the doors to create multiple innovative applications. Let us learn more about the “OP_RETURN” opcode and its utility in the Bitcoin blockchain.

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Exploring Bitcoin Beyond the Crypto Transactions

The first introduction to Bitcoin painted it as a decentralized electronic cash system. With the help of blockchain technology, the blocks of Bitcoin network record every transaction on the ledger. At the same time, the distinctive traits of Bitcoin blockchain such as decentralization, public verification and tamper-proof nature attracted developers. The attention of developers on Bitcoin blockchain created new avenues for using Bitcoin for something more than virtual currency. 

The thought of storing data on blockchain emerged for the first time as developers discovered that the Bitcoin ledger can store non-financial data. However, early attempts to store data on Bitcoin were inefficient and resulted in various issues. For instance, storing unspendable addresses created blockchain bloat since all the nodes have to track the unspendable outputs. It resulted in expansion of the size of Unspent Transaction Output or UTXO set, which requires more memory for operation of the nodes.

How Does OP_RETURN Help in Storing Arbitrary Data?

The need for data embedding alongside addressing the concerns of blockchain bloat led to the arrival of OP_RETURN. The Bitcoin developer community introduced the “OP_RETURN” opcode in 2014. You can review answers to “What is OP_RETURN in Bitcoin?” and discover that it is just a special script opcode for adding arbitrary data to the output of a transaction. One of the distinctive highlights of “OP_RETURN” outputs is that they cannot be spent. Any Bitcoin tokens linked to an “OP_RETURN” output will be burned and the UTXO set does not need to track the output. As a result, the opcode ensures a more efficient approach with reduced overheads for data storage on blockchain.

You can notice that making “OP_RETURN” outputs unspendable is an effective design choice. Since “OP_RETURN” transactions are not included in the UTXO set, they don’t consume memory of the full nodes. The unique design choice addresses the concerns of ‘blockchain bloat’ by supporting limited data storage without affecting the decentralization and efficiency of the network. 

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Workflow of OP_RETURN

The most crucial highlight in any guide on ‘OP_RETURN’ is its working mechanism. You can use a Bitcoin OP_RETURN example transaction to understand how the special opcode works. The standard Bitcoin transaction involves the output specifying the address of the recipient and the amount of Bitcoin you want to send. The ‘OP_RETURN’ opcode ensures that Bitcoin transactions can have an output which will not receive any Bitcoins. In addition, the transaction also includes a script featuring the “OP_RETURN” opcode accompanied with arbitrary data.

Here is a breakdown of the individual steps in the working of ‘OP_RETURN’ opcode.

• The first step begins when a user initiates a Bitcoin transaction. 
• In the second step, you have to add a special output i.e. the OP_RETURN output, which has a zero value. 
• You will note that the locking script or scriptPubKey of the zero-value output starts with ‘OP_RETURN’ and then includes the desired data pushed on it. The pushed data is generally a hexadecimal code for the arbitrary information that you want to store.
• Once the data embedding is complete, the transaction will be broadcast across the Bitcoin network. Miners will add the transaction to a block when it complies with the consensus rules and mempool policies. 
• After confirmation of a transaction in a block, the embedded data will become an immutable component of the Bitcoin blockchain.

Discovering New Use Cases of Bitcoin with OP_RETURN

With the introduction of OP_RETURN in blockchain, you can find a wide array of applications that can transform Bitcoin into a trusted platform for data-anchoring services. The following use cases of OP_RETURN prove why it is an innovative advancement for the Bitcoin blockchain.

• Decentralized Apps and Layer-2 Protocols

The utility of ‘OP_RETURN’ in Bitcoin blockchain is seen in the fact that it helps in anchoring data from different layer-2 protocols and decentralized apps. Sidechains or state channel networks can leverage ‘OP_RETURN’ to embed a summary of the off-chain state on the Bitcoin blockchain. It will help in supporting scaling solutions that need occasional interactions with the main blockchain to achieve better integrity and security.

• Asset Issuance and Colored Coins 

Prior to the arrival of advanced token standards, OP_RETURN served as a primary factor for encouraging the development of ‘Colored Coins’. The opcode helped in coloring specific Satoshis or the smallest units of Bitcoin with metadata for representing other assets like shares in digital collectibles or shares in an organization. It helped in tracking and transferring ‘colored’ assets on Bitcoin, which served as a blueprint for tokenization. 

• Proof of Existence 

The earliest example of applying OP_RETURN in Bitcoin is evident in timestamping of documents and digital files. The process involved taking a cryptographic hash of a document and embedding the hash in the OP_RETURN output. It ensures that you can prove the existence of the specific document at a particular point of time. The OP_RETURN opcode serves a significant role in safeguarding intellectual property rights and documentation of legal agreements.

• NFTs and Digital Collectibles

The OP_RETURN opcode has a limited data capacity and many would think twice about its usability for NFTs and digital collectibles. The workflow of ‘OP_RETURN’ involves data embedding, which paved the path for introducing more sophisticated approaches to represent digital collectibles. You can notice how ‘OP_RETURN’ is a vital tool for promoting the rise of Bitcoin Ordinals and BRC-20 tokens which require larger storage. Future developments on Bitcoin blockchain, like Runes, might use ‘OP_RETURN’ in their protocol and BRC-20 tokens can shift to ‘OP_RETURN’ after limit removal.

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Limitations of OP_RETURN

The different ways to use OP_RETURN for storing data on blockchain prove that it is an innovative advancement for Bitcoin. On the other hand, you must also know that the opcode has some limitations that have been subject to debates within the Bitcoin community. You should keep an eye on the following limitations of ‘OP_RETURN’ to make the best use of it.

• Limited Data Size

The first aspect that you notice in the setbacks of the Bitcoin opcode for arbitrary data storage is the data size limit. OP_RETURN has an extremely small data size limit, 80 bytes, which restricts the amount and type of information that you can embed directly in the output. The limitation is in place for preventing excessive growth of the network and maintaining the network efficiency.

• No Direct Utility 

While the concept of storing non-financial data on Bitcoin with OP_RETURN seems interesting, it does not qualify as a valuable utility. The data embedded in ‘OP_RETURN’ output does not have any significance for the Bitcoin protocol. The utility of ‘OP_RETURN’ depends largely on the external applications which interpret the data.

• Burden of Additional Costs

One of the prominent highlights in answers to “What is OP_RETURN in Bitcoin?” focuses on the fact that OP_RETURN outputs have null value. However, the transactions will still impose the burden of fees according to their size. Imagine storing data in small chunks that adds up to the transaction size. For a network like Bitcoin, increased transaction size automatically translates to higher costs that you have to pay to miners.

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Future Direction for OP_RETURN and Data Storage on Bitcoin

The prospects for storing arbitrary non-financial data on Bitcoin blockchain herald the beginning of a series of innovative advancements. The OP_RETURN opcode can become a focal point for innovation, as evident from its utility. For instance, OP_RETURN will emerge as a formidable driver for expanding the extensive data capabilities of Bitcoin. However, the adoption of OP_RETURN will depend a lot on whether the size limit will be reduced. The impact of OP_RETURN on expected advancements like Runes will help in reducing dependence on more complex data embedding techniques. 

Final Thoughts 

The uses of OP_RETURN in blockchain data storage prove that it is an advancement way ahead of its time. OP_RETURN emerged as a solution to blockchain bloat that resulted from ineffective data storage methods. Over the course of time, the opcode has evolved with diverse applications such as anchoring layer-2 protocols or timestamping documents. One of the biggest highlights of OP_RETURN is their adoption in emerging solutions like BRC-20 tokens and Bitcoin Ordinals. The limited data capacity of OP_RETURN is one of the biggest obstacles for its large-scale adoption. However, it will have a significant role in the future of Bitcoin by helping preserve its core identity while encouraging innovation. 

*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!

The post OP_RETURN and Storing Data on the Bitcoin Blockchain appeared first on 101 Blockchains.

Blockchain technology initiated a revolution that has grown to a stage where it has become a core element of Web3. As the blockchain and crypto space grows bigger, it becomes more fragmented, thereby creating significant challenges for users. Different blockchain networks operate as isolated ecosystems with their unique strengths and communities. Blockchain bridges offer a promising solution to address the interoperability challenge, enhance liquidity, and provide a better user experience.

This multichain bridges guide aims to introduce you to one of the versatile options among blockchain bridges. Let us learn about the significance of blockchain bridges and how multichain bridges have been challenging traditional benchmarks.

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Decoding the Importance of Blockchain Bridges

Interoperability might not appear like a big problem for the blockchain and crypto ecosystem when you see big players performing well. The lack of interoperability creates a massive barrier to accessibility as users on one blockchain could not interact with another network. In the long run, this problem may lead to reduced adoption rates and threats to growth of blockchain technology. 

The arrival of multichain bridges in crypto has been possible due to the efforts of some pioneers who recognized the interoperability problem. Crypto bridges helped in overcoming the isolated nature of blockchain networks and opened new avenues for collaboration. The utility of blockchain bridges ensures easier access to decentralized applications in different networks and seamless cross-chain transactions.

Bridges also reduce barriers to entry for interacting with multiple blockchain networks and contribute to the maturity of blockchain ecosystem. As the demand for crypto bridges continued growing, developers came up with different types of bridges. Some of the notable types of crypto bridges include centralized and decentralized bridges. Most recently, multichain bridges have been garnering all the praise for connecting multiple blockchain networks at once. 

Definition of Multichain Bridges

The term ‘multichain bridges’ might sound a bit confusing as all bridges are supposed to connect multiple blockchain networks. Apparently, the answers to “What is multichain bridge?” leave out the existence of single-chain bridges that work between two specific networks. Multichain bridges are just like any regular software protocol that features smart contracts to facilitate asset transfer or communication between multiple chains. You can also think of multichain bridges as a web of interconnected blockchain networks that offers the best of every protocol.

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How Does a Multichain Bridge Work?

Multichain bridges manage the conversion of native assets on one blockchain to wrapped or pegged tokens on the destination blockchain. At the same time, the bridges also ensure secure asset transfer between networks making them almost similar to international bank transfer systems. The common method followed by almost all entries in a multichain bridges list is the ‘lock and mint’ approach. The ‘lock and mint’ method involves locking the native assets on the source blockchain and minting the equivalent amount of wrapped tokens on the destination blockchain.

Do you want to know what happens if you want to release the locked tokens on the source blockchain? You can release the locked tokens by reversing the process or burning equivalent amount of wrapped tokens on the destination blockchain. 

Let us assume a scenario where you want to send ETH tokens to the Polygon blockchain with a multichain bridge. The bridge with lock the amount of ETH tokens you want to send on the source blockchain i.e. Ethereum. In the next step, the bridge will mint the equivalent amount of tokens on Polygon blockchain. When you want your ETH tokens back on the Ethereum blockchain, the wrapped ETH tokens on Polygon will be burned to unlock the original ETH tokens. 

Significance of Multichain Bridges in the Crypto Space

The value of multichain bridges is not limited to cryptocurrencies only as they aim to have an impact on the broader blockchain landscape. Imagine the possibilities that would emerge from services that allow users to explore DeFi apps, NFTs, metaverse platforms, and other solutions without any barriers. The impact of multichain bridges on Ethereum or any other popular blockchain might not be explicitly evident as of now. However, multichain bridges have proved effective for new users who have been seeking opportunities to explore multiple blockchain networks.

You don’t have to exit the blockchain network that you want to capitalize on the offerings of DeFi applications on multiple networks. The solution to the interoperability challenge with multichain bridges also opens new doors for improving liquidity in newer or smaller blockchain ecosystems. In addition, multichain bridges also offer a trusted solution for seamless movement of NFTs between blockchain networks. As a result, bridges improve utility of NFTs alongside opening new marketplaces for them. Another advantage of multichain bridges is the assurance of solution to scalability problems as they can reduce congestion on popular chains. 

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Do Multichain Bridges Have Any Risks?

The use cases of multichain bridges show that they are the next big thing for the future of blockchain and crypto. The rising number of multichain bridges in crypto indicates that the interoperability challenge has remained unaddressed for a long time. At the same time, something’s good does not mean that it won’t have any bad qualities. Multichain bridges also present certain risks, such as security concerns in the form of smart contract vulnerabilities or centralization issues.

Multichain bridges are likely to present liquidity risks as they can face liquidity crunches during fluctuations in the crypto market. On top of it, bridges also become the most obvious target for attackers as they work as conduits for transferring large amounts of crypto assets.

Navigating Regulatory Risks for Multichain Bridges

The regulatory uncertainty that creates problems for cryptocurrencies also affects multichain bridges. If you use multichain bridges for Ethereum tokens in the United States, then you must comply with certain regulations. One of the key regulatory concerns for multichain bridges is the possibility of classifying them as money transmitters. On the other hand, FinCEN guidelines suggest that multichain bridges don’t hold direct custody of user funds, which excludes them from the definition of money transmitters.

Even if multichain bridges work within the ambit of law, the regulatory landscape can come up with new surprises. Take the worst case scenario as an example in which multichain bridges are classified as money transmitters. It would lead to a huge burden of compliance obligations on bridges, such as registering with the authorities, implementing KYC and AML programs and obtaining money transmitter licenses. 

The cross-border transactions with multichain bridges also create concerns about the applicable laws and jurisdiction. Since multichain bridges, blockchain networks and crypto assets work with decentralization, it is difficult to assign any regulatory responsibility. Multichain bridges will also have to adapt to regulatory frameworks that call for ethical and responsible use of crypto. 

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Final Thoughts 

The different features of multichain bridges and their benefits prove why they have been gaining traction. One of the biggest advantages of multichain bridges is the solution to interoperability problems. The addition of new entries in the multichain bridges list every day indicates their effectiveness and growing demand. They can address the need for seamless asset transfer between blockchain networks. However, multichain bridges are vulnerable to security risks and technical challenges. On top of it, regulatory uncertainty also poses many problems for bridges. Learn more about the utility of crypto bridges and use them to your advantage right now.

*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!

The post Multichain Bridges: Enabling Blockchain Interoperability appeared first on 101 Blockchains.

Every new blockchain protocol that grabs the limelight has at least one unique trait that separates them from others. With innovation as a priority, the blockchain ecosystem keeps bringing new protocols to solve pressing concerns. The Algorand Algo blockchain is one of the perfect examples of blockchain protocols created to address the biggest problem, the blockchain trilemma. The mainnet of Algorand was launched in 2019 and has been in the news for solving challenges with blockchain scalability. At the same time, you might wonder about its competence against top players such as Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Solana. Let us learn more about the fundamentals of Algorand and how it became a favorite of enterprises and developers.

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Understanding the Basic Details of Algorand

Algorand is a layer 1 blockchain protocol that offers the guarantee of high performance with instant transaction finality, low gas fees, and high network throughput. In simple words, the Algorand protocol offers a solution to the blockchain trilemma between decentralization, security, and scalability. The strength of Algorand to solve the blockchain trilemma comes from its unique consensus mechanism. Algorand utilizes a Pure Proof of Stake consensus mechanism that ensures faster and more efficient transactions with a reduced environmental footprint.

The vision behind Algorand focuses on addressing the inefficiencies associated with existing blockchain protocols. The creator, Silvio Micali, had earned a reputation for his contributions to cryptography, and he wanted to develop a system that addressed the obstacles to speed, decentralization, and security. As of now, Algorand can process almost 10000 transactions in a second with extremely low costs. Interestingly, Algorand has created its independent blockchain ecosystem that supports DeFi, NFTs, supply chain, and many other solutions.  

Serving a Unique Consensus Mechanism

The first idea for introducing Algorand took birth in 2017 when Proof of Work was the norm among consensus mechanisms. Popular blockchain protocols such as Bitcoin and Ethereum also use the Proof of Work consensus mechanism. The growing influence of Algorand partnerships and key technological innovations started with the notion to offer improvements on the Proof of Work consensus mechanism. According to the whitepaper of Algorand, the Proof of Work mechanism wastes a lot of resources, offers limited scalability, and increases the risks of centralization.

The Proof of Stake consensus mechanism emerged as an alternative to the energy-intensive Proof of Work approach. However, Algorand took a different approach and adopted a variation of the Proof of Stake approach. The consensus mechanism of Algorand, the Pure Proof of Stake mechanism, is different from Proof of Stake as it does not require any deposits to become a validator. Anyone with 1 Algo token can participate in the consensus process and approve blocks. 

The unique consensus mechanism improves the efficiency of Algorand governance by reducing the barriers to entry. Everyone in the Algorand ecosystem can become a validator, thereby making the blockchain more decentralized. It follows a unique principle of avoiding fines to ensure honest actions from users.

Which Problem Can You Solve with Algorand?

Just like every blockchain protocol, Algorand was created with the vision to address a specific problem. It focused on addressing the blockchain scalability problem or the blockchain trilemma. The blockchain trilemma problem represents the challenge of balancing between security, scalability, and decentralization along with the growing blockchain network. As the Algorand blockchain size continues growing with the ecosystem embracing different types of blockchain and web3 applications, it is important to note how Algorand is adapting to the change.

• Faster Transactions, Reduced Cost 

The team of Algorand claims that technological advancements have helped them in solving the blockchain trilemma. For example, the Algorand team states that the blockchain can handle 10,000 transactions per second. Official documentation of Algorand transactions also reveals that the minimum fee for a transaction is almost 0.001 ALGO. 

• Enhanced Security

Algorand not only performs better in transaction finality but also stands out with unparalleled security as it cannot fork or split into different chains. The Pure Proof of Stake consensus approach leverages a special voting mechanism for block validation. As a result, the Algorand blockchain will stop temporarily or slow down for some time when the network participants don’t reach a consensus.    

• Complete Decentralization

The favorable estimates for Algorand price prediction also stem from its ability to ensure decentralization in all cases. Algorand uses its unique Proof of Stake variant along with Algorithmically Synchronized Randomness or ASR to achieve higher centralization. The Algorand blockchain selects validators randomly with ASR while the Pure Proof of Stake consensus allows anyone with 1 ALGO token to participate in consensus.

Enroll now in the Blockchain Scalability and Interoperability Mastery Course to learn the skills needed to develop faster, scalable, robust, and interoperable dApps.

Exploring Some Highlights of the ALGO Token 

You cannot expect to complete an introduction to Algorand without mentioning its native coin, the ALGO token. The ideal approach to find answers to queries like “Is Algorand a good investment?” would involve a detailed analysis of its tokenomics.

ALGO token primarily serves as a medium to pay for gas fees or for products and services in the Algorand ecosystem. The token also works as a promising asset for incentivizing participation, decentralized governance, staking, and funding for ecosystem projects.

Another crucial detail about the tokenomics of Algorand is the maximum token supply. The maximum supply of ALGO tokens has been capped at 10 billion. Out of the 10 billion tokens, 30% have been allocated for public sale. 

The other shares of the coin supply go to, 

• Participation rewards 
• Foundation treasury 
• Node running incentives 
• End user grants 
• The Algorand team and investors

Distinctive Features You Can Find in Algorand

The reputation of Algorand as a blockchain protocol depends a lot on its capability to address the problem of blockchain scaling. It offers a unique blend of speed, decentralization, and security with its unique features, such as the Pure Proof of Stake consensus. 

The special consensus approach of the Algorand Algo blockchain ensures safeguards for decentralization by allowing anyone with 1 ALGO token to participate in network consensus. On top of it, the Algorand blockchain also maintains randomness in selecting validators for new blocks. The decentralized architecture of Algorand also runs on the principle of avoiding any centralized entity exercising its power to censor transactions.

It is also important to note how Algorand is completely permissionless while upholding essential security standards. Furthermore, Algorand does not impose any slashing or fines to discourage malicious behavior on the network. Algorand has some special features that can outperform other existing blockchain protocols by a huge margin. 

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Limitations to Watch Out For

The discussions about the Algorand ALGO blockchain focus significantly on its advantages. At the same time, you must also review the Algorand protocol with an understanding of its limitations. For example, you might notice a growing DeFi ecosystem on the Algorand ALGO blockchain, albeit with weak growth. On top of it, the Algorand blockchain does not offer compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine. The lack of compatibility with EVM limits the capabilities for migrating smart contracts from other blockchain networks to Algorand blockchain.

Final Thoughts

The introduction to Algorand reveals that it is a powerful solution to the blockchain trilemma problem. While many solutions for blockchain scaling have emerged in recent years, Algorand serves as a one-for-all solution. The ease of participation in Algorand governance ensures safeguards for decentralization, while the lack of forking abilities enhances security. In terms of transaction finality, the Algorand blockchain can manage around 10,000 transactions per second. Learn more about the Algorand blockchain and its special features from a technical perspective right now.

*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!

The post A Beginner’s Guide to Algorand (ALGO) Blockchain appeared first on 101 Blockchains.

Digital transformation has found a completely different angle with the arrival of technological innovations such as AI and web3. Artificial intelligence offers unimaginable capabilities for processing data and decision making while Web3 brings the elements of decentralization and transparency. The use of AI agents in Web3 represents a convergence of the two most powerful technologies in the world right now.

Upon hearing the term ‘AI agents’, some of you may imagine AI systems behaving like James Bond or Ethan Hunt. In reality, AI agents are autonomous software programs which have the potential to transform the approaches for interacting with and working in decentralized ecosystems. Let us learn how AI agents will automate “knowledge work” in Web3.

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Understanding How AI Agents Work

You can find relevant insights on the utility of AI agents in the domain of Web3 only if you know how they work. AI agents are software programs which don’t follow a specific set of rules. On the contrary, they have the capabilities for reasoning, planning, learning and adapting to achieve the desired goals. The web3 artificial intelligence relationship will grow stronger with AI agents which are nothing like simple chatbots. An AI agent can utilize advanced AI models such as Large Language Models or LLMs for understanding complex requests, processing information, and making relevant decisions.

The best way to describe the working mechanism of AI agents is to paint them as highly autonomous digital assistants. You can break down the workflow of an AI agent into the following steps.

• Data Collection

The first step in the working of AI agents involves collecting data from different sources, including text, numbers and real-time data. AI agents use the collected data to perceive the environment in which they have to work. 

• Reasoning

Subsequently, the agent uses their AI model, generally an LLM, to analyze the data and come up with definite conclusions. The reasoning leads the AI agent to craft a step-by-step plan for achieving its goals. 

• Action

Once the agent has finalized the course of action, it will execute the plans, interact with other systems, generate content, and perform transactions, whichever required. 

• Continuous Learning

Most important of all, AI agents learn from their experiences and refine the way they work to improve their performance. The ability to learn and act autonomously makes AI agents different from conventional software programs.

Take your first step towards learning about artificial intelligence through AI Flashcards

Establishing the Connection between AI Agents and Web3 

The idea approach to discover insights on the utility of AI agents for the web3 landscape would require a clear understanding of how AI systems fit in the web3 world. Web3 or the decentralized variant of the internet, uses blockchain technology to empower users with ownership of their data. The other notable traits of Web3 include peer-to-peer interactions and censorship resistance. 

You can find the answers to “What are web3 AI agents?” in the different ways for linking web3 with AI. Do you know that most of the AI applications in the existing web2 world are centralized? Big corporations own the AI models, infrastructure and data that are responsible for the working of AI applications. Therefore, you can come across issues of censorship, lack of transparency, and data privacy.

Web3 can come into the picture and decentralize intelligence by enabling AI agents to run on distributed networks. As a result, AI agents will not depend on central servers, thereby becoming more censorship-resistant and resilient. 

Blockchain can support secure data management with transparency, thereby ensuring that users can control access to their data while empowering AI agents with different functionalities.

The relationship between Web 3.0 and AI agents is also evident in the creation of a completely distinctive ecosystem. Web3 tokenomics can help in creating mechanisms to serve incentives for developing, deploying, and using AI agents. It can provide the ideal foundation for a synergetic and collaborative ecosystem. 

One of the most noticeable highlights underlying the importance of web3 AI agents revolves around community governance. The introduction of AI agents in the world of Web3 helps in ensuring that AI grows and evolves according to the needs of users rather than the whims of corporate giants. Web3 can bring DAOs for community governance of AI projects, thereby allowing different communities to cast votes on updates, ethical guidelines, and resource allocation.

Use Cases of Web 3.0 AI Agents for Knowledge Work

The biggest doubt on the mind of every reader right now must be about the meaning the ‘knowledge work’. The description of knowledge work focuses on thinking, problem-solving and rational analysis tasks rather than physical labor. You can discover the impact of AI agents on knowledge work in Web3 in the following areas.

• Automation of DeFi Platforms

The complexity of the DeFi landscape can be extremely challenging for a beginner to navigate. At the same time, you cannot ignore the diverse opportunities for lending, borrowing, yield farming, and trading in the DeFi ecosystem. The arrival of AI agents in crypto and DeFi will help people in navigating the different DeFi platforms and optimize their strategies. The most common use case of AI agents in the field of web3 is portfolio management as AI agents are capable of real-time trend monitoring.

AI agents can also help with identification of the most profitable liquidity and staking opportunities throughout different DeFi protocols. It can provide profitable ways to optimize yields, thereby saving time and reducing gas fees. AI agents can also enable access to arbitrage opportunities in DeFi by processing data from different decentralized exchanges. The impact of AI agents in DeFi will also focus on enhanced security as they can scan DeFi protocols continuously to identify vulnerabilities.     

• New Perspective on Web3 Gaming and Metaverse

The blend of Web3 with AI agents will enhance knowledge work to provide more engaging and dynamic experiences in Web3 games and metaverse platforms. As the uses of AI agents in Web3 gain recognition, you can find better prospects for creating intelligent NPCs in Web3 games. AI agents can drive NPCs with realistic behaviors, adaptive dialogue, and evolving personalities to make web3 games more immersive. AI agents also play a crucial role in enhancing knowledge work for Web3 games and metaverse platforms by creating personalized content.

The traits of AI agents also make them useful for the web3 landscape by managing in-game economy in web3 and metaverse games. AI agents can support dynamic adjustment of in-game token rewards, resource allocation, and NFT minting rates. AI agents also improve the security of Web3 games and metaverse platforms by facilitating anti-fraud detection. For instance, AI agents can evaluate player behavior and their transaction patterns to detect suspicious actions. 

• Enhancing the Functionalities of DAOs

Decentralized Autonomous Organizations or DAOs, are a crucial component of the web3 landscape as they enable decentralized governance. However, DAOs can be slow as they require votes of every member to reach at the final decisions. The use of Web3 AI agents can enhance DAO operations by streamlining the different processes involved in their working. First of all, AI agents can read and evaluate DAO proposals to summarize the important points and visualize different outcomes of the voting choices.

AI agents will also have a prominent role in treasury management of DAOs through creation of optimized asset allocation strategies. They can help with automation of investment decisions and real-time tracking of financial performance. AI agents can serve as community managers to enable easier collaboration between DAO participants. Most important of all, AI agents can take on the task of voting and proposal execution on the basis of pre-approved parameters in certain cases.

Excited to develop fluent knowledge of the DAO ecosystem? Enroll now in the DAO Fundamentals Course!

Which Technological Advancements Promote the Web3 AI Relationship?

The technological advancements in Web3 and AI have played a crucial role in encouraging the use of AI agents for knowledge work in Web3. One of the foremost highlights that you should keep in mind to understand how AI can enhance the web3 experience is the arrival of more powerful LLMs. Continuous improvements of LLMs can introduce advanced capabilities in AI agents, thereby enabling them to generate relevant and smart responses.

The web3 artificial intelligence nexus will also grow stronger with the rising use of layer 2 solutions. AI agents can interact frequently with blockchain networks by using layer 2 solutions that don’t impose excessive transaction costs. On top of it, the introduction of new frameworks allows the development of more sophisticated AI agents.

Final Thoughts 

The possibility of blending AI and Web3 will provide better opportunities to enhance knowledge work in various areas. AI agents will pave the path for a new era in web3 that focuses a lot on improvement in efficiency and user experience. For instance, AI agents in crypto can support effective portfolio management by analyzing data from different sources in real-time. On top of it, AI agents also improve security of users in Web3 by identifying suspicious patterns. The utility of AI agents will continue improving with the introduction of new features and latest technological advancements. At the same time, you must remember that integrating AI agents with Web3 comes with some challenges. Discover more information about the applications of AI agents for knowledge work in Web3 right now.

*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!

The post The Rise of AI Agents: Automating Knowledge Work in Web3 appeared first on 101 Blockchains.

We’re already a few weeks into tax season! For many people with complicated returns, tax prep started well before January. But even if your situation is fairly simple, you would still need to gather documents, review your finances, and account for any big changes that may have happened over the past year.

Are you ready for tax season? What documents do you still need, if any? Are you filing your own taxes or hiring someone to do it?

Tell us whether you’re ready for tax season and we’ll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

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Preparing for tax season often seems more like a sprint than a marathon. You receive your W2 forms in the mail in late January, and then it’s time to excavate your receipt shoe box and spend a stressful weekend trying to make sense of your tax return. All in all, it feels like a hurried, overwhelming, and nerve-wracking chore that you dread every year.

But what if filing your taxes didn’t have to be quite so stressful?

The trick to making your tax season a breeze is preparing for it early. As in, right now. If you want an easy and relaxed tax season, here’s what you can do now to get ready.

Make a list of the information you’ll need

One of the most frustrating moments in tax preparation is discovering you’re still missing one vital piece of information after you’ve gathered everything you thought you needed. And it’s even worse if you don’t know how to find the missing information. 

So look over the specific info you need to file now, to give yourself time to gather all the items well before Tax Day. Specifically, you’ll need:

• A copy of last year’s tax return
   
• The Social Security or Tax ID number of every member of your household
   
• The income records of every member of your household
   
• Receipts for your deductible expenses
   
• Records of any taxes you’ve paid throughout the year

Putting together your list of necessary information and checking each item off as you gather it will ensure that you’re fully prepared when you finally sit down to file. (See also: The 7 Most Common Tax Questions for Beginners, Answered)

Organize your receipts

Keeping track of tax-related receipts throughout the year is one of the most difficult parts of handling your taxes. Many people throw all of their receipts for work-related expenses, charitable donations, mortgage payments, medical expenses, and interest statements in a single folder or box to deal with "later." 

Now is an excellent time to dig out your receipts and start organizing them according to category. Having your receipts neatly separated now will make it easy to sort the last few that come in as the year comes to a close, and can help you get into the habit of putting them in order as you receive them.

Gather your paystubs together

Though the majority of filers will receive either a W2 or 1099 form from their employer(s), it’s still a good idea to gather your paystubs before the end of the year to get a rough idea of your income. That will help you identify any potential mistakes on your W2 or 1099 forms as soon as they arrive. It’s far better to catch a mistake early rather than find you need to request a corrected form close to the IRS deadline.

Plus, checking over your paystubs all at once gives you a chance to take a look at your federal and state tax withholding over the year, as well as any pretax contributions you’ve made to your 401(k) or IRA. 

Review your W4

Another great reason to look at your paystubs now is that it gives you a chance to review your W4 with your employer. 

The W4 form determines how much tax withholding is taken from each paycheck. If you expect to receive a large refund this year, you can adjust your withholding allowances now to ensure that more of your paycheck will come home with you in 2020. If, on the other hand, you worry that you may owe money because you didn’t have enough withheld, now is a good time to adjust your W4 to be sure you don’t have the same problem in the coming year. (See also: Are You Withholding the Right Amount of Taxes from Your Paycheck?)

Send more money to your retirement fund

If you have access to a tax-deferred retirement account like a 401(k) or an IRA, now is the time to see how much money you have set aside this year, and try to increase that number. 

As of 2019, workers under 50 years old can save up to $19,000 in a 401(k) and up to $6,000 in an IRA. And every dollar you put into these kinds of accounts reduces the amount of income you have to pay taxes on. 

Now is an excellent time to try to maximize your 2019 contribution. You have until the end of the calendar year to maximize your 2019 401(k) contribution, but you can continue contributing to your 2019 IRA until April 15, 2020. 

Getting into the habit of increasing your contribution now can also help you reach the maximum in 2020, which is going up to $19,500 for 401(k) accounts, although the IRA maximum will hold steady at $6,000. (See also: 8 Tax Return Mistakes Even Smart People Make)

Plan ahead for your refund

If you expect to receive a refund this year, start thinking about the best way to use the money now. We tend to think of a tax refund as "free money," even though it’s just your own salary being returned to you. But with a free money mindset, it’s very easy to go overboard spending the refund on fun stuff, like a vacation or a new gadget.

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying your tax refund, but taking a hard look at your budget and finances now can help you to determine if having fun with your refund is the best use of the money. Is there some debt you could pay down (or pay off) with the refund instead? Or is there a major goal you’re saving toward — like a down payment on a house — that would benefit from an injection of cash? 

Thinking through the best use of your tax refund before you have it in your hot little hands makes it more likely you’ll make good decisions with it. Once you have the money in your possession, it’s very tempting to make it rain instead of saving for a rainy day.

Make your tax season less stressful

Getting a jump start on your filing chores will not only make tax season much easier, but it can also help you prepare for your finances in the coming year. Start 2020 on the right financial foot by starting your tax season preparation early.

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Editor’s Note: Congratulations to P, Samantha, and Tabathia for winning this week’s contest!

You don’t want to get your taxes wrong, but if your finances are fairly simple and you’re usually pretty organized, it’s pretty safe to file taxes on your own.

Do you file your own taxes? What do you think is the most complicated part of the process? What advice would you give to someone who is filing their own taxes for the first time?

Tell us whether you file or own taxes and we’ll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We’re doing three giveaways — here’s how you can win:

• Follow us on Twitter
• Tweet about our giveaway for an entry.
• Visit our Facebook page for an entry.
• Follow @janetonthemoney on Twitter.

Use our Rafflecopter widget for your chance to win one of three Amazon Gift Cards:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway Rules:

• Contest ends Monday, February 25th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. Winners will be announced after February 25th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
   
• This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered, or associated with Facebook or Twitter.
   
• You must be 18 and U.S. resident to enter. Void where prohibited.

Good Luck!

Welcome to Wise Bread’s Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on tax secrets of the rich, ways to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle, and household chores you should outsource.

Top 5 Articles

9 Tax Secrets of the Rich They Don’t Teach You Anywhere — Learn how to use income and expenses to reduce your tax burden. [Wallet Hacks]

8 Ways to Adopt a Zero-waste Lifestyle — It’s not easy to achieve a zero-waste lifestyle, but it is possible with a little dedication and some really good tips. [No Sidebar]

Stress Less: 6 Household Chores to Outsource — Outsource these time-consuming household tasks and reclaim some much-needed time for yourself! [Everything Finance]

How to Watch ESPN Without Cable: 10 Great Options to Consider — Need your sports fix on the cheap? Here are a few options to follow your favorite teams without ponying up for cable or satellite TV. [Frugal Rules]

Insider Tips For Saving Money on the Great Summer Road Trip — Accidents, construction, and road closures can happen on any route, but you’ll save time, gas, and patience by planning some backup routes just in case. [PopSugar Smart Living]

Other Essential Reading

The 5 advantages of selling your home for fast cash — There are a few benefits to finding a cash buyer to purchase your home instead of listing your home with a realtor. [Disease Called Debt]

How to Stock a Home Bar on a Budget — Booze tends to see the highest markup whenever you go out for food or drinks. If you’re deliberate and patient, you can stock up your home bar for a fraction of the price you would spend at a bar. [Money After Graduation]

How to Write a Professional Work Email — The lack of verbal cues can cause misunderstandings in emails. Use this simple guide to help you handle your electronic correspondences like a pro. [Daily Worth]

9 indestructible houseplants that purify the air — These nine houseplants will continue to purify the air in your space even if you neglect them. [Frugal and Thriving]

Post-crisis banking rules: now altered but not undone — Here’s what you need to know about the state of banking oversight and the economy today. [The Christian Science Monitor]

In 2017, the IRS received 152,235,000 tax returns — and of those returns, more than 73 percent were granted a refund. With the average refund last year standing at $2,895, you might think getting a windfall in the spring is a good thing. But rather than giving the government an interest-free loan all year, wouldn’t you have preferred to have an extra $241.25 per month in your paycheck?

On the other hand, the 27 percent of taxpayers not receiving a refund may be getting the opposite — a big tax bill. They may not be having enough money withheld from their paychecks for taxes.

This is why it’s important to withhold the right amount of taxes out of your paycheck. Let’s review how to cover your projected tax liability while minimizing your refund. (See also: Bigger Paycheck or Bigger Tax Refund — Which Should You Pick?)

Meet the IRS Withholding Calculator

With the passing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, many Americans are still trying to figure out the full effects of this legislation on their paychecks. In an effort to help taxpayers make sense of recent changes to the tax law, the IRS updated its Withholding Calculator on February 28, 2018.

While the IRS recommends that all taxpayers take a second look at how much in taxes they’re taking out of their paychecks, the agency highly encourages the following groups to check their withholdings for 2018:

• Two-income families.

• People with two or more jobs at the same time or who only work for part of the year.

• People with children who claim credits such as the Child Tax Credit.

• People who itemized deductions in 2017.

• People with high incomes and more complex tax returns.

How to use the IRS Withholding Calculator

Here’s your game plan to achieve a "Goldilocks" withholding rate on your paycheck this year.

1. Gather your latest pay stub(s) and latest tax return

If you don’t receive a pay stub in the mail, contact your human resources office to get a copy or learn how you can download one online from your company portal. Depending on your unique financial situation, you may also want to find your 2016 return (or your 2017, if you’ve completed it) to more accurately estimate your 2018 income, budget, expenses, and list of tax credits.

2. Provide general information and list potential tax credits

In the first two sections of the IRS Withholding Calculator, indicate your filing status, whether or not anybody can claim you as a dependent, how many jobs you and your spouse (if applicable) have, how many dependents you will claim on your return, and whether or not you or your spouse will be 65 or older on January 1, 2019.

Additionally, you will need to list any applicable tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit. This is why it’s helpful to have past returns handy to help you estimate those credits. (See also: 8 Tax Return Mistakes Even Smart People Make)

3. Detail your wage income and withholding

Next, enter your gross wages, salaries, tips, and any bonuses you expect to receive in 2018. Using your most recent pay stubs, enter the total federal income tax withheld to date in 2018 and the federal income tax withheld from your last salary payment. Indicate how frequently you receive your paychecks, and, if applicable, when you started this job in 2018, and when you expect this job to end in 2018.

If you receive any other taxable income, make sure to include it as well. The IRS Withholding Calculator is only as accurate as the information you enter, so leaving that income out may result in a higher tax liability.

4. List deductions

Here is one of the biggest changes implemented by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. If your standard deduction ($12,000 for individuals, $18,000 for heads of household, and $24,000 for married filing jointly) is more than your total itemized deductions, your standard deduction will be used to calculate your withholding. Otherwise, your total itemized deduction amount will be used. So, this is why it still pays to keep track of all of those deductions throughout the year.

Use your latest return to estimate your 2018 itemized deductions, including medical and dental expenses, paid taxes (up to $5,000 for single filers and $10,000 for married filers for applicable state and local income taxes, property taxes, or sales taxes), gifts to charity, and other itemized deductions. Remember that beginning in 2018, job and certain miscellaneous expenses are no longer deductible. (See also: 12 Things You Should Know About the New Tax Law)

5. Adjust your W4

Once you have entered all the data, the IRS Withholding Calculator will provide you with clear instructions on how to update your W4 with your employer. Depending on your situation, some action items may include changing your filing status, adjusting your number of allowances, and withholding an extra amount every paycheck.

Following the instructions from the calculator, you’ll cover your tax liability just right.

Revisit the IRS Withholding Calculator as necessary

Don’t set it and forget it. If your job (Promotion? Salary bump? Side gig?) or life situation (Married? Baby?) changes, revisit the IRS Withholding Calculator. The calculator will help you make sure you have the right amount of tax withheld from your paycheck at work.

The IRS recommends submitting your updated W4 to your employer as soon as possible. Withholding takes place throughout the year, so it’s better to take this step right away.

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