-- Sales tax deduction: Typically, you can deduct state and local income taxes or state and local sales taxes. For most taxpayers, the state income tax deduction will be higher, but if you live in a state with no income tax, the sales tax deduction can be valuable (it was extended for the 2008 tax year by Congress). You can add up the taxes you paid (did you save all those receipts?) or use an estimator.

-- Health insurance premiums: If you're self-employed and not eligible for another employer-sponsored plan, your health insurance premiums are 100 percent deductible.

As you finish up your taxes for 2008, it's worth looking out for changes for 2009 already on the book (though others are sure to follow), including the following:

-- First-time home buyer tax credit: I mentioned this above, but it's even better for first-time buyers purchasing a home between Jan. 1 and Dec. 1, 2009: The tax credit rises to $8,000 (or 10 percent of the purchase price, whichever's smaller) and -- the really good news -- you do not have to repay the credit as long as you stay in your house for 36 months after the purchase date. Again, make sure you qualify, but if you do, this is a great tax break.

-- The AMT exemption level rises again, to $70,950 for married taxpayers filing jointly and $46,700 for single taxpayers.

-- Tax credit for car purchases: The stimulus package includes an above-the-line deduction (a reduction of adjusted gross income) for state and local taxes paid on the purchase of a new car. Limitations apply, so be sure to check with the IRS for details.

Finally, be aware that nearly every tax law has limitations or provisions that mean it may not apply to you (consult the IRS website or your tax preparer or both before making any major decisions based on their tax consequences). Preparing your taxes is almost never fun, but it's a very pleasant feeling when you find some way to reduce the amount you owe. Good luck.