How do I find the instructions for the PA Corporate Tax Report, RCT-101?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Tue Mar 13 08:08:14 PDT 2018

How do I find the instructions for the PA Corporate Tax Report, RCT-101?

Compare Tax Services and Gain Tax-Time Confidence

by Susan Fish @ Tax Information Center

Sun Mar 25 21:59:19 PDT 2018

Choosing a company to help you with your taxes can be a big decision. After all, at tax time, you want to know that your taxes are being done right and feel confident you’re getting the most money back possible. If you’re comparing tax services or switching, be sure to consider these factors so you […]

The post Compare Tax Services and Gain Tax-Time Confidence appeared first on Tax Information Center.

Where’s My Refund?

by ConsiderChapter13 @

Sun Mar 25 06:01:32 PDT 2018

The Where’s My Refund? tool gives taxpayers access to their tax return and refund status anytime. All they need is internet access and three pieces of information:

Their Social Security number. Their filing status. The exact whole dollar amount of their refund.

Taxpayers can start checking on the status of their return within 24 . . . → Read More: Where’s My Refund?

Are cremation urns for pets taxable?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Feb 21 08:29:44 PST 2018

Are cremation urns for pets taxable?

Five Facts about Charitable Contributions

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Thu Nov 16 13:36:45 PST 2017

With the holidays around the corner, many people will be making donations to benefit charitable organizations. However, come tax time, the person who made the donation might also benefit. That’s because taxpayers who donate to a charity may be able to claim a deduction for the donation on their federal tax return. Here are five […]

The post Five Facts about Charitable Contributions appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

How can a funeral director let a vendor know that the funeral director should not pay Sales Tax on an urn that will be interred?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Feb 21 08:33:29 PST 2018

How can a funeral director let a vendor know that the funeral director should not pay Sales Tax on an urn that will be interred?

How does a seller report the sales made through a marketplace facilitator when the facilitator has elected to charge and remit sales tax?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Fri Mar 23 06:16:35 PDT 2018

How does a seller report the sales made through a marketplace facilitator when the facilitator has elected to charge and remit sales tax?  

S Advisory: Prepaid Real Property Taxes May Be Deductible in 2017 if Assessed and Paid in 2017

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Mon Jan 08 10:31:44 PST 2018

The Internal Revenue Service advised tax professionals and taxpayers today that pre-paying 2018 state and local real property taxes in 2017 may be tax deductible under certain circumstances.  The IRS has received a number of questions from the tax community concerning the deductibility of prepaid real property taxes. In general, whether a taxpayer is allowed a deduction […]

The post S Advisory: Prepaid Real Property Taxes May Be Deductible in 2017 if Assessed and Paid in 2017 appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for December 2017

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Thu Nov 16 18:21:11 PST 2017

  Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for December 2017 to your  AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of December 1, 2017 from US TREASURY will post between November 27, 2017 […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for December 2017 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

Putting Your Tax Refund Into a Retirement Account? Read This

by Tami R. Benus, CPA @ Tami R. Benus, CPA

Tue Mar 27 06:00:59 PDT 2018

Considering depositing your tax refund into your retirement account? Make sure no snafus happen along the way. Read more. If you plan on having the IRS deposit your tax refund into one or more individual retirement accounts (IRAs), most of the hard part is already
Read More

The post Putting Your Tax Refund Into a Retirement Account? Read This appeared first on Tami R. Benus, CPA.

More Tax Breaks Available for 2017 Tax Returns

by Tami R. Benus, CPA @ Tami R. Benus, CPA

Tue Mar 13 06:00:20 PDT 2018

Several tax breaks were revived for use in 2017 tax filing by last month’s federal budget bill. Among them are four you may be able to take advantage of: the tuition and fees deduction, the mortgage insurance deduction, the mortgage debt forgiveness exclusion and the
Read More

The post More Tax Breaks Available for 2017 Tax Returns appeared first on Tami R. Benus, CPA.

On what items sold to the family of the deceased is a funeral director required to collect Sales Tax?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Feb 21 09:09:30 PST 2018

On what items sold to the family of the deceased is a funeral director required to collect Sales Tax?

How is sales tax penalty/interest calculated?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Fri Feb 23 11:57:55 PST 2018

How is sales tax penalty/interest calculated?

Social Security Administration announces small increase in 2018 wage base

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Wed Oct 18 09:53:57 PDT 2017

The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced on Friday that the maximum amount of wages in 2018 subject to the 6.2% Social Security tax (old age, survivor, and disability insurance) will rise from $127,200 to $128,700, an increase of a little more than 1%. By comparison, the 2017 wage base increased more than 7% over the 2016 wage […]

The post Social Security Administration announces small increase in 2018 wage base appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

Are Social Security benefits taxable?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Thu Feb 22 12:39:29 PST 2018

Are Social Security benefits taxable?

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for July 2017

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Wed Jun 14 16:40:26 PDT 2017

  Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for July 2017 to your  AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of June 30, 2017 from US TREASURY will post between June 26, 2017 and […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for July 2017 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

Five Things to Remember about Hobby Income and Expenses

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Wed Nov 22 08:47:42 PST 2017

From scrapbooking to glass blowing, many Americans enjoy hobbies that are also a source of income. A taxpayer must report income on their tax return even if it is made from a hobby. However, the rules for how to report the income and expenses depend on whether the activity is a hobby or a business. […]

The post Five Things to Remember about Hobby Income and Expenses appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

Should a crematory that sells urns to funeral directors collect Sales Tax from the funeral director?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Feb 21 08:44:44 PST 2018

Should a crematory that sells urns to funeral directors collect Sales Tax from the funeral director?

Debx Review – Using Your Credit Card Like A Debit Card

by Robert Farrington @ The College Investor

Fri Mar 23 00:10:54 PDT 2018

Debx is an app that allows you to use your credit card like a debit card, but instantly paying off credit card purchases. Find out more in our Debx review.

The post Debx Review – Using Your Credit Card Like A Debit Card appeared first on The College Investor.

Updated 2018 Withholding Tables Now Available; Taxpayers Could See Paycheck Changes by February

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Fri Jan 12 17:03:07 PST 2018

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today released Notice 1036, which updates the income-tax withholding tables for 2018 reflecting changes made by the tax reform legislation enacted last month. This is the first in a series of steps that IRS will take to help improve the accuracy of withholding following major changes made by the new tax law.

The updated withholding information, posted today on IRS.gov, shows the new rates for employers to use during 2018. Employers should begin using the 2018 withholding tables as soon as possible, but not later than Feb. 15, 2018. They should continue to use the 2017 withholding tables until implementing the 2018 withholding tables.

Many employees will begin to see increases in their paychecks to reflect the new law in February. The time it will take for employees to see the changes in their paychecks will vary depending on how quickly the new tables are implemented by their employers and how often they are paid — generally weekly, biweekly or monthly.   The new withholding tables are designed to work with the Forms W-4 that workers have already filed with their employers to claim withholding allowances. This will minimize burden on taxpayers

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Disaster Items

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Mon Sep 18 10:57:36 PDT 2017

Victims of Harvey have till Jan. 31 to file 2016 returns, assuming they previously got proper filing extensions.  This deadline also applies to estimated tax payments originally due on Sept. 15 and on Jan. 16, 2018, as well as to payroll tax filings and excise tax returns. Employers can give tax-free assistance to employee victims […]

The post Disaster Items appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

Crushing Tax Change For Injured Consumers

by ConsiderChapter13 @

Sun Mar 25 06:03:46 PDT 2018

Please Login to view this Content. (Not a member? . . . → Read More: Crushing Tax Change For Injured Consumers

New Federal Veterans ID Card Now Available – How to Apply for the New VIC

by Ryan Guina @ The Military Wallet

Mon Dec 04 10:05:11 PST 2017

Update – January, 2018: VA Again Accepting ID Card Applications. The VA began accepting applications for the Veterans Identification Cards at the end of November 2017. Shortly afterward, the VA announced they were unable to process ID card requests due to the overwhelming response. Veterans were instructed to submit their email address on a waining [...]

Uncovering Hidden Tax Deductions

by Susan Fish @ Tax Information Center

Sun Mar 25 21:59:15 PDT 2018

When you file your taxes, you know accuracy is critical. However, there are lots of ways to complete a tax return and while your return may be accurate, it doesn’t mean that you’ve taken advantage of every deduction available to you. Uncovering hidden tax deductions and knowing which tax tips apply to you is a […]

The post Uncovering Hidden Tax Deductions appeared first on Tax Information Center.

Can an out-of-state vendor collect Pennsylvania Sales Tax when the funeral director purchases an item for use in a funeral service?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Feb 21 08:41:19 PST 2018

Can an out-of-state vendor collect Pennsylvania Sales Tax when the funeral director purchases an item for use in a funeral service?

The 2018 Tax Season is here!

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Mon Jan 01 15:45:20 PST 2018

Mid-January is the official start of 2018 tax season, here are some tips to get started in preparing to file your 2017 tax return.

January 31 is the date when employers must issue w-2 and 1099 income statements to employees.

As soon as you receive all your tax documents: the earlier you file, the better. For 2018, same as in 2017, the Internal Revenue Service will delay refunds for those claiming Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Credit to filter fraudulent returns. Refunds will be authorized and released by the middle of February.

Taxpayers who have Individual Tax Identification numbers (ITIN) with middle digits of 70, 71, 72 or 80 need to renew their ITIN before their 2017 returns will be processed.

Kindly review my previous article (2017 issue:2, published 12/17/17 ) what are the necessary documents you may need to be able to file a correct, complete, and an accurate tax return.

 

Should you have any question or concern, do not hesitate to give us a call. Happy 2018!

 

Oscar B. Antonio, EA

 

 

[2018 issue:1]

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New Tax Year: Preparation and Organization is Key

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Sun Dec 17 13:59:51 PST 2017

In a few more days, it will be 2018. A new year full of hope and surprises. Allow me to help you start preparing and organizing for the upcoming tax year.

Be vigilant and be careful not to throw away mails with the words “important tax information enclosed”. The Internal Revenue Service is also furnished with such documents, so it’s very important that you do not miss anything.

A quick reminder of what you should be looking for:

1. W-2s – Review it very carefully and communicate with your employer if you find any discrepancy or if you do not receive it by Feb.1, 2018
2. 1099B – 1099 int or 1099div from accounts that pay interest or dividends
3. 1099-misc – If you worked as independent contractor
4. 1095-A, 1095-B, 1095-C, this are proof of health insurance documents. Specially 1095-A, which you will receive if you purchased insurance from the Health Insurance Marketplace and you qualify for the premium tax credit
5. 1099s – this is where real estate sales is being reported
6. 1099-B for stock sales transaction
7. 1099-R for 401K, Pension and IRA distribution
8. 1099-SSA if you receive Social Security benefits
9. 1095- and 1095-C, these reports foreclosures and Debt consolidations
10. 1098 – Mortgage

Read more ...

2018 Tax Filing Season Begins Jan. 29, Tax Returns Due April 17; Help Available for Taxpayers

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Thu Jan 04 07:03:14 PST 2018

The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the nation’s tax season will begin Monday, Jan. 29, 2018 and reminded taxpayers claiming certain tax credits that refunds won’t be available before late February. The IRS will begin accepting tax returns on Jan. 29, with nearly 155 million individual tax returns expected to be filed in 2018. The nation’s tax deadline will be April 17 this year – so taxpayers will have two additional days to file beyond April 15. 

Many software companies and tax professionals will be accepting tax returns before Jan. 29 and then will submit the returns when IRS systems open. Although the IRS will begin accepting both electronic and paper tax returns Jan. 29, paper returns will begin processing later in mid-February as system updates continue. The IRS strongly encourages people to file their tax returns electronically for faster refunds.

The IRS set the Jan. 29 opening date to ensure the security and readiness of key tax processing systems in advance of the opening and to assess the potential impact of tax legislation on 2017 tax returns.

The IRS reminds taxpayers that, by law, the IRS cannot issue refunds claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the

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Can I Claim Medical Expenses on My Taxes? What Can I Claim?

by H&R Block @ Tax Information Center

Mon Mar 26 13:15:00 PDT 2018

If you’re itemizing deductions, the IRS generally allows you a medical expenses deduction if you have unreimbursed expenses that are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income for tax years 2017 or 2018. You can deduct the cost of care from several types of practitioners at various stages of care. Keep in mind, due […]

The post Can I Claim Medical Expenses on My Taxes? What Can I Claim? appeared first on Tax Information Center.

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for March 2018

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Thu Feb 15 17:03:47 PST 2018

Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for March 2018 to your  AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of March 1, 2018 from US TREASURY will post between February 26, 2018 and […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for March 2018 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

Here’s Five Reasons to Use Direct Deposit for a Tax Refund

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Fri Jan 12 06:29:43 PST 2018

As taxpayers prepare for the January 29 start of filing season, they should consider a direct deposit of any refunds due. It’s easy, safe, fast — and the best way to get a refund. That’s why 80 percent of taxpayers choose it every year. IRS Direct Deposit: Is Fast. The quickest way for taxpayers to […]

The post Here’s Five Reasons to Use Direct Deposit for a Tax Refund appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

If a funeral director pays Sales Tax or remits Use Tax on an urn that is subsequently interred, can the funeral director apply for a credit or refund?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Feb 21 08:39:27 PST 2018

If a funeral director pays Sales Tax or remits Use Tax on an urn that is subsequently interred, can the funeral director apply for a credit or refund?

Is Sales Tax imposed upon caskets sold online?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Feb 21 08:37:09 PST 2018

Is Sales Tax imposed upon caskets sold online?

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for September 2017

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Fri Aug 18 15:20:50 PDT 2017

  Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for September 2017 to your AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of September 1, 2017 from US TREASURY will post between August 28, 2017 […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for September 2017 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

Top Four Reasons to File an Amended Return

by Elyce Harmon @ Tax Information Center

Tue Mar 27 14:21:07 PDT 2018

Here are the Top 4 reasons to file an amended return (Form 1040X). 1. Correct an error or omission to your income. If you find out after you file that you left income off your return (from Form W-2 or 1099, for example), or you got a corrected information statement with different income or withholding […]

The post Top Four Reasons to File an Amended Return appeared first on Tax Information Center.

What is a W-4 Form? What It Means and How It Affects Your Taxes

by Ashlee Crowl @ Tax Information Center

Mon Mar 26 13:15:00 PDT 2018

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on September 1, 2015.  The W-4 Form is the IRS document you complete for your employer to determine how much should be withheld from your paycheck for federal income taxes and sent to the IRS. Accurately completing your W-4 will help you avoid overpaying your taxes throughout the […]

The post What is a W-4 Form? What It Means and How It Affects Your Taxes appeared first on Tax Information Center.

Are You a Caregiver? These Tax Breaks May Be Helpful!

by Tami R. Benus, CPA @ Tami R. Benus, CPA

Tue Mar 20 06:00:41 PDT 2018

Those who care for people who are sick, elderly or disabled are often up against a lot of challenges. Fortunately, there may be a handful of tax breaks that can help. They include the medical expense deduction, the Child and Dependent Care Credit, and the
Read More

The post Are You a Caregiver? These Tax Breaks May Be Helpful! appeared first on Tami R. Benus, CPA.

A Cherry Creek beer garden and rooftop tapas in this week’s Denver and Boulder restaurant openings

by Allyson Reedy, The Know @ The Denver Post

Tue Mar 27 15:43:43 PDT 2018

The Boulder restaurant comes from beverage director Bryan Dayton of Acorn and OAK at fourteenth, and chef Amos Watts of Old Major.

Five Reasons to Use Direct Deposit for a Tax Refund

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Fri Jan 12 16:02:00 PST 2018

As taxpayers prepare for the January 29 start of filing season, they should consider a direct deposit of any refunds due. It’s easy, safe, fast — and the best way to get a refund. That’s why 80 percent of taxpayers choose it every year.

IRS Direct Deposit:

    •    Is Fast. The quickest way for taxpayers to get their refund is to electronically file their federal tax return and use direct deposit. They can use IRS Free File to prepare and e-file federal returns for free.  Taxpayers who file a paper return can also use direct deposit.  

    •    Is Secure. Since refunds go right into a bank account, there’s no risk of having a paper check stolen or lost. This is the same electronic transfer system that deposits nearly 98 percent of all Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits into millions of accounts.

    •    Is Easy.  Choosing direct deposit is easy. With e-file, just follow the instructions in the tax software. For paper returns, the tax form instructions serve as a guide. Make sure to enter the correct bank account and routing number.  

    •    Has Options. Taxpayers can split a refund into several

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Application for a Sales Tax license, promoters license, or wholesalers certificate.

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Mon Mar 05 14:01:25 PST 2018

How do I obtain a Sales Tax license, promoters license, or wholesalers certificate?

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 : A quick overview

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Sun Dec 31 12:05:43 PST 2017

December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was passed and signed into law by U.S. President Donald Trump. Most of these new tax changes will go into effect January 1, 2018. The 2017 tax returns will not be affected.

Almost all taxpayers will be impacted by these tax changes. Those who are itemizing their deductions will have fewer deductions to deduct in exchange of a much higher standard deduction. Changes on child-related tax breaks would also greatly affect families.

Here’s a closer look on some of the key provisions of the 2017 tax reform bill.

1. Higher standard deductions but… No more personal exemptions. This new law almost doubled the standard deduction to $12,000 for single individuals, $18,000 for head of household and $24,000 for married filing joint returns. But then, the personal exemption credit has also been eliminated.
2. Tax bracket changes. The new law kept the 7 tax brackets from prior years with different breakpoints and rates. The lowest rate is still 10% but the top rate is lowered from 39.6% to 37%.
3. Higher child tax credit- starting tax year 2018, the child tax credit for each child under 17 is doubled to $2,000 from $1,000.

Read more ...

[2018: issue7]

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Wed Jan 24 14:26:25 PST 2018

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today strongly encouraged taxpayers who are seriously behind on their taxes to pay what they owe or enter into a payment agreement with the IRS to avoid putting their passports in jeopardy.

This month, the IRS will begin implementation of new procedures affecting individuals with “seriously delinquent tax debts.” These new procedures implement provisions of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, signed into law in December 2015. The FAST Act requires the IRS to notify the State Department of taxpayers the IRS has certified as owing a seriously delinquent tax debt. See Notice 2018-1. The FAST Act also requires the State Department to deny their passport application or deny renewal of their passport. In some cases, the State Department may revoke their passport.

Taxpayers affected by this law are those with a seriously delinquent tax debt.  A taxpayer with a seriously delinquent tax debt is generally someone who owes the IRS more than $51,000 in back taxes, penalties and interest for which the IRS has filed a Notice of Federal Tax Lien and the period to challenge it has expired or the IRS has issued a levy.

There are several ways taxpayers

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IRS Letter 1025A – Incomplete Appeal Request

by Elyce Harmon @ Tax Information Center

Fri Mar 23 14:24:41 PDT 2018

Additional information is needed to forward your case to the Office of Appeals. Type of notice: Return accuracy Possible next step: Address an IRS audit Also see: IRS penalties, IRS bill for unpaid taxes Why you received IRS Letter 1025A You filed a tax return that the IRS selected for audit. You disagreed with the […]

The post IRS Letter 1025A – Incomplete Appeal Request appeared first on Tax Information Center.

What Is a Taxpayer Advocate and Should You Contact One?

by Robert Farrington @ The College Investor

Mon Mar 26 00:15:18 PDT 2018

Are you having problems with the IRS? You may want to consider contacting a taxpayer advocate. They can speak to the IRS for you and help resolve tax problems.

The post What Is a Taxpayer Advocate and Should You Contact One? appeared first on The College Investor.

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for February 2018

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Thu Jan 18 17:33:00 PST 2018

Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for February 2018 to your  AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of February 1, 2018 from US TREASURY will post between January 29, 2018 and […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for February 2018 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

Tax Debts & Gambling

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Mon Sep 18 10:46:33 PDT 2017

Tax Debts: Individuals who owe back taxes to IRS can check their balances online.The Revenue Service has a web-based tool that shows the amount of taxes due for each tax year, up to 18 months of payment history, and interest and penalties.  Users first have to go through security procedures to authenticate their identities. Gambling: […]

The post Tax Debts & Gambling appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

If I initially elected to comply with Pennsylvania’s notice and reporting requirements, do I still need to comply with the notice and reporting requirements if I decide to collect Pa. sales tax during the year?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Mar 14 07:07:16 PDT 2018

If I initially elected to comply with Pennsylvania's notice and reporting requirements, do I still need to comply with the notice and reporting requirements if I decide to collect Pa. sales tax dur

Ten Tips for Choosing a Tax Preparer

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Thu Jan 04 16:12:17 PST 2018

It’s the time of the year when many taxpayers choose a tax preparer to help file a tax return. These taxpayers should choose their tax return preparer wisely.  This is because taxpayers are responsible for all the information on their income tax return. That’s true no matter who prepares the return.

Here are ten tips for taxpayers to remember when selecting a preparer:

1. Check the Preparer’s Qualifications. Use the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications. This tool helps taxpayers find a tax return preparer with specific qualifications. The directory is a searchable and sortable listing of preparers.
2. Check the Preparer’s History. Ask the Better Business Bureau about the preparer. Check for disciplinary actions and the license status for credentialed preparers. For CPAs, check with the State Board of Accountancy. For attorneys, check with the State Bar Association. For Enrolled Agents, go to the verify enrolled agent status page on IRS.gov or check the directory. 
3. Ask about Service Fees. Avoid preparers who base fees on a percentage of the refund or who boast bigger refunds than their competition. When asking about a preparer’s services and fees, don’t give them tax documents, Social Security

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2018 IRS Tax Refund Schedule (2017 Tax Year) – When Will I Receive My Tax Refund?

by Ryan Guina @ The Military Wallet

Fri Jan 05 14:47:03 PST 2018

When it comes to filing a federal tax return, there are a few questions that people care about more than any other – how much am I paying on taxes, how much will I get back in my tax refund, and when will I receive it? Everything else, the say, is just details. There is [...]

Understanding Tax Return Preparer Credentials and Qualifications

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Thu Jan 04 17:17:09 PST 2018

Any tax professional with an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) is authorized to prepare federal tax returns. However, tax professionals have differing levels of skills, education and expertise.

An important difference in the types of practitioners is “representation rights.” Here is guidance on each credential and qualification:

UNLIMITED REPRESENTATION RIGHTS: Enrolled agents, certified public accountants, and attorneys have unlimited representation rights before the IRS. Tax professionals with these credentials may represent their clients on any matters including audits, payment/collection issues, and appeals.

Enrolled Agents – Licensed by the IRS. Enrolled agents are subject to a suitability check and must pass a three-part Special Enrollment Examination, which is a comprehensive exam that requires them to demonstrate proficiency in federal tax planning, individual and business tax return preparation, and representation. They must complete 72 hours of continuing education every 3 years. Learn more about the Enrolled Agent Program.

Certified Public Accountants – Licensed by state boards of accountancy, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. Certified public accountants have passed the Uniform CPA Examination. They have completed a study in accounting at a college or university and also met experience and good character requirements established by their respective boards of accountancy. In

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A New Twist on Scams This 2018 Tax Season

by Tami R. Benus, CPA @ Tami R. Benus, CPA

Wed Mar 14 06:35:17 PDT 2018

The IRS urges taxpayers to beware of fake calls to return money from tax return refund checks that have been deposited in error into bank accounts. Scammers either pretend to be collection agency employees or use a recorded message threatening people to return the refund.
Read More

The post A New Twist on Scams This 2018 Tax Season appeared first on Tami R. Benus, CPA.

Taxpayers Bill of Rights

by admin @ Robert Abbott Tax Services

Fri Dec 29 23:04:09 PST 2017

Each and every taxpayer has a set of fundamental rights they should be aware of when dealing with the IRS. Explore your rights and our obligations to protect them.

 

The Right to Be Informed

Taxpayers have the right to know what they need to do to comply with the tax laws. They are entitled to clear explanations of the laws and IRS procedures in all tax forms, instructions, publications, notices, and correspondence. They have the right to be informed of IRS decisions about their tax accounts and to receive clear explanations of the outcomes.

 

The Right to Quality Service

Taxpayers have the right to receive prompt, courteous, and professional assistance in their dealings with the IRS, to be spoken to in a way they can easily understand, to receive clear and easily understandable communications from the IRS, and to speak to a supervisor about inadequate service.

 

The Right to Pay No More than the Correct Amount of Tax

Taxpayers have the right to pay only the amount of tax legally due, including interest and penalties, and to have the IRS apply all tax payments properly.

 

The Right to Challenge the IRS’s Position and Be Heard

Taxpayers

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How to Turn a Tax Refund Into a Fatter Paycheck

by Tina Orem @ NerdWallet

Fri Mar 23 12:34:45 PDT 2018

Getting a tax refund may seem great, but tax pros say it’s also a sign two things could be happening: You may not be doing enough tax planning, and you…

IRS Letter 1025 – Incomplete Appeal Request

by Elyce Harmon @ Tax Information Center

Fri Mar 23 14:03:39 PDT 2018

Additional information is needed to forward your case to the Office of Appeals. Type of notice: Return accuracy Possible next step: Address an IRS audit Also see: IRS penalties, IRS bill for unpaid taxes Why you received IRS Letter 1025 You filed a tax return that the IRS selected for an audit. You disagreed with […]

The post IRS Letter 1025 – Incomplete Appeal Request appeared first on Tax Information Center.

Calling the IRS? Let the Agency Know Who You Are

by Tami R. Benus, CPA @ Tami R. Benus, CPA

Thu Mar 15 06:00:42 PDT 2018

If you need to call the IRS this tax season, be aware that you’ll be asked to verify your identity. This is part of the IRS’s continuing effort to keep taxpayer data secure. You can help your phone call go smoothly by having the following
Read More

The post Calling the IRS? Let the Agency Know Who You Are appeared first on Tami R. Benus, CPA.

Winter Storm Extension: Many Businesses Have Extra Time To Request A 6-Month Extension

by ConsiderChapter13 @

Sun Mar 18 06:42:34 PDT 2018

On 3/13/18 the IRS granted many businesses affected by severe winter storms additional time to request a six-month extension to file their 2017 federal income tax returns.

The IRS is providing this relief to victims and tax professionals affected by last week’s storm–known as Winter Storm Quinn—and this week’s storm –known as Winter Storm . . . → Read More: Winter Storm Extension: Many Businesses Have Extra Time To Request A 6-Month Extension

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for October 2017

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Wed Sep 20 15:21:50 PDT 2017

  Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for October 2017 to your  AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of September 29, 2017 from US TREASURY will post between September 25, 2017 […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for October 2017 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

Should a funeral director remit Use Tax on every item for which the director does not pay Sales Tax, regardless of whether the item is used during a funeral service?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Wed Feb 21 08:23:23 PST 2018

Should a funeral director remit Use Tax on every item for which the director does not pay Sales Tax, regardless of whether the item is used during a funeral service?

I am a nonresident and a beneficiary of an estate/trust that withheld an amount greater than Pennsylvania’s tax rate. Am I entitled to the refund?

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Fri Mar 09 10:49:33 PST 2018

I am a nonresident and a beneficiary of an estate/trust that withheld an amount greater than Pennsylvania's tax rate.  Am I entitled to the refund?

How to Prepare Your Taxes & File Your Tax Return – (Possibly for Free!)

by Ryan Guina @ The Military Wallet

Tue Feb 13 09:14:10 PST 2018

Thank you H&R Block for sponsoring this post. While this was a sponsored opportunity from H&R Block, all content and opinions expressed here are my own. Filing your taxes isn’t always fun. But it doesn’t have to be a complicated process or take a long time. If your situation is fairly basic, you can file [...]

How Grads Can Get Another Shot at Student Loan Forgiveness

by Anna Helhoski @ NerdWallet

Tue Mar 27 09:20:39 PDT 2018

The Trump administration is giving student loan borrowers who missed out on public service loan forgiveness a second chance, and they should move now to prepare. The recently passed $1.3 trillion federal…

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for November 2017

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Wed Oct 11 16:35:01 PDT 2017

  Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for November 2017 to your AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of November 1, 2017 from US TREASURY will post between October 27, 2017 […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for November 2017 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

If You Insist on Paying Taxes With a Credit Card, Here’s How

by Tina Orem @ NerdWallet

Thu Mar 22 14:14:34 PDT 2018

Ask any financial expert whether you should pay your tax bill with a credit card, and the answer is almost universally the same: Don’t do it. Credit cards charge far…

What Is Head of Household and Who Can Claim It?

by Lynn Ebel @ Tax Information Center

Mon Mar 26 13:21:25 PDT 2018

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on January 29, 2014.  Head of household is a filing status for single or unmarried taxpayers who have maintained a home for a qualifying person, such as a child or relative. This filing status provides a larger standard deduction and more generous tax rates for calculating federal income […]

The post What Is Head of Household and Who Can Claim It? appeared first on Tax Information Center.

6 Smart Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund

by cfsc2017cmsadmin @ CFSC

Mon Feb 19 13:40:37 PST 2018

The post 6 Smart Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund appeared first on CFSC.

Did a Tax Pro Botch Your Return? Here’s What to Do

by Tina Orem @ NerdWallet

Fri Mar 23 06:53:52 PDT 2018

To err is human, but to err on your tax return is a total dumpster fire. If you did your own taxes, of course, you may have only yourself to…

Taxpayers can use IRS Select Check tool before Donating on Giving Tuesday

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Wed Nov 22 08:51:39 PST 2017

Giving Tuesday is an annual event celebrated the week after Thanksgiving to kick off the season of charitable giving. Taxpayers making donations may be able to deduct them on their tax return. As people are deciding where to make their donations, the IRS has a tool that may help. Exempt Organizations Select Check on IRS.gov […]

The post Taxpayers can use IRS Select Check tool before Donating on Giving Tuesday appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve Tax Problems?

by Elyce Harmon @ Tax Information Center

Mon Mar 26 14:09:51 PDT 2018

The short answer is, it varies. It depends on the type of issue and the complexity If you owe taxes, you can set up a simple payment plan online in an hour. But if you have a multi-year IRS audit, you could be looking at dealing with that issue for over a year. Click an […]

The post How Long Does It Take to Resolve Tax Problems? appeared first on Tax Information Center.

Tax Filing Deadline Postponed Until June 29 For Victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and The Virgin Islands

by ConsiderChapter13 @

Sun Mar 25 06:02:28 PDT 2018

The IRS is reminding victims of Hurricane Maria in the U.S. Virgin Islands and in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico that filing and payment activities have been postponed until June 29, 2018, for the following localities:

In the U.S. Virgin Islands (starting Sept. 16, 2017): Islands of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas. . . . → Read More: Tax Filing Deadline Postponed Until June 29 For Victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and The Virgin Islands

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for August 2017

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Mon Jul 24 11:25:52 PDT 2017

  Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for August 2017 to your  AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of August 1, 2017 from US TREASURY will post between July 27, 2017 and […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for August 2017 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

Avoid 2017 Tax Return Mistakes

by Tami R. Benus, CPA @ Tami R. Benus, CPA

Thu Mar 22 06:00:33 PDT 2018

As you file your 2017 tax return this season, make sure you don’t fall victim to some of the easiest mistakes made each year. Math errors, misspelled names, wrong bank account numbers and omitted Social Security numbers are just a few of the errors that
Read More

The post Avoid 2017 Tax Return Mistakes appeared first on Tami R. Benus, CPA.

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for April 2018

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Tue Mar 27 15:35:42 PDT 2018

Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for April 2018 to your  AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of March 30, 2018 from US TREASURY will post between March 26, 2018 and […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for April 2018 appeared first on Account Now Blog.

Taxpayers Can Explore Payment Options Any Time of the Year

by Jackie @ McAuley & Crandall

Tue Nov 14 11:30:31 PST 2017

The IRS understands that taxpayers who owe money need choices on how they can make payments to the agency. IRS offers three easy ways to pay taxes. Taxpayers can pay online, by phone or with their mobile device using the IRS2Go app. Any time of the year is a good time for taxpayers to explore […]

The post Taxpayers Can Explore Payment Options Any Time of the Year appeared first on McAuley & Crandall.

When Not to File an Amended Return

by Elyce Harmon @ Tax Information Center

Tue Mar 27 14:21:28 PDT 2018

Lots of people make this mistake every year. Filing an amended return when you shouldn’t can confuse the IRS and make your situation even more complicated. Here are the most common situations when you should NOT file an amended return – and exactly what to do instead. 1. You got an IRS CP2000 notice (also […]

The post When Not to File an Amended Return appeared first on Tax Information Center.

Automobile protection plan

by @ RNT OpenSearch RSS

Sat Feb 24 16:25:31 PST 2018

Is sales tax charged on automobile protection plans?

AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for Jan 2018

by accountnow @ Account Now Blog

Tue Jan 02 16:07:27 PST 2018

  Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for January 2018 to your  AccountNow Gold Visa Prepaid Card Customers with AccountNow prepaid cards may get their direct deposits faster▼ Supplemental Security Income SSI payments and some VA Benefit deposits with a normal payment date of December 29, 2017 from US TREASURY will post between December 27, 2017 […]

The post AccountNow Social Security SSI Payment Schedule for Jan 2018 appeared first on Account Now Blog.