How to Protect Yourself from Phishing
UncategorizedProbably the most important rule is: 1) Don’t give out personal information based on an unsolicited email request. Here are a few basic tips to recognize and avoid a phishing e-mail: It contains a link. Scammers often pose as the IRS,...
Rules for Renting Out a Vacation Home
UncategorizedMany people rent out a second or vacation home to help offset the costs of ownership. But this enterprise does present special tax considerations. If you rent your vacation home out for fewer than 15 days you do not have to report any of...
IRS Online Tool to Assist Taxpayers with Basic Account Information
UncategorizedThis secure tool, available on IRS.gov allows taxpayers to view their IRS account balance, which will include the amount they owe for tax, penalties and interest. Taxpayers may also continue to take advantage of the various online payme...
IRS Warns of New Phone Scam Involving Bogus Certified Letters
UncategorizedThis scam is being reported across the country, so taxpayers should be alert to the details. In the latest twist, the scammer claims to be from the IRS and tells the victim about two certified letters purportedly sent to the taxpayer in ...
What is a SIMPLE IRA?
UncategorizedAn eligible employer is one with no more than 100 employees. An employer contribution is required. It can be either: A matching contribution up to 3% of compensation (not limited by the annual compensation limit) or a 2% nonelective co...
A Brief History of Electronic Filing
UncategorizedBefore 1986. All tax returns were mailed to the IRS and entered into computers by data transcribers. They had to read tax returns that were many times still handwritten by accountants ( who next to doctors may have the worst handwriting)...
Tax Information for Students Who Take a Summer Job
UncategorizedTax Information for Students Who Take a Summer Job Many students take a job in the summer after school lets out. If it’s your first job it gives you a chance to learn about the working world. That includes taxes we pay to support the p...
May 15 is the Filing Deadline for Many Tax-Exempt Organizations
UncategorizedWith the May 16 filing deadline facing many tax-exempt organizations, the IRS cautioned these groups not to include Social Security numbers (SSNs) or other unneeded personal information on their Forms 990, and consider taking advantage o...
How to Know It’s Really the IRS Calling or Knocking on Your Door
UncategorizedMany taxpayers have encountered individuals impersonating IRS officials – in person, over the telephone and via email. Don’t get scammed. We want you to understand how and when the IRS contacts taxpayers and help you determine whethe...
What to Know about Late Filing and Late Paying Penalties
UncategorizedTaxpayers who owe tax, and failed to file and pay on time, will most likely owe interest and penalties on the tax they pay late. To keep interest and penalties to a minimum, taxpayers should file their tax return and pay any tax owed as ...