Textbook Problem

Nick Bontempo is single, claiming two exemptions. He is an iron worker earning $35,000 in wages per year. Last year he also earned $1,200 in cash dividends from his investments portfolio. Nick contributed $1,500 to his individual retirement account and gained $5,000 from the sale of 100 shares of Consolidated Widget stock. The stock sale was classified as a short-term sale, so it counts as ordinary income. His itemized deductions amounted to medical expenses of $1,250 in excess of IRS exclusions. $2,945 in real estate taxes. $2,500 in mortgage interest, and $300 in charitable contributions. From this information, calculate Nick's taxable income.