Eight Things to Know If You Receive an IRS Notice

Posted on December 5, 2021 by FCA Admin

Every year, the IRS sends millions of letters and notices to taxpayers. Many taxpayers will receive this correspondence during the late summer and fall. Here are eight things every taxpayer should know about IRS notices – just in case one shows up in your mailbox.

  1. Don’t panic. Many of these letters can be dealt with simply and painlessly.
  2. There are number of reasons the IRS sends notices to taxpayers. The notice may request payment of taxes, notify you of a change to your account or request additional information. The notice you receive normally covers a very specific issue about your account or tax return.
  3. Each letter and notice offers specific instructions on what you are asked to do to satisfy the inquiry.
  4. 4. If you receive a correction notice, you should review the correspondence and compare it with the information on your return.
  5. If you agree with the correction to your account, usually no reply is necessary unless a payment is due.
  6. If you do not agree with the correction the IRS made, it is important that you respond as requested. Write to explain why you disagree. Include any documents and information you wish the IRS to consider, along with the bottom tear-off portion of the notice. Mail the information to the IRS address shown in the upper left-hand corner of the notice. Allow at least 30 days for a response.
  7. Most correspondence can be handled without calling or visiting an IRS office. However, if you have questions, call the telephone number in the upper right-hand corner of the notice. Have a copy of your tax return and the correspondence available when you call to help us respond to your inquiry.
  8. It’s important that you keep copies of any correspondence with your records.

For more information about IRS notices and bills, see Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process. Information about penalties and interest charges is available in Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals. Both publications are available at IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Links:

Source: IRS Issue Number:  Summertime Tax Tip 2009-22

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Prepare for Hurricanes, Disasters by Safeguarding Tax Records

Posted on September 30, 2021 by FCA Admin

Issue Number:    IRS-2012-60

Inside This Issue

IRS YouTube Videos

Podcast
Disaster Assistance: English | Spanish

WASHINGTON — With the early start of this year’s hurricane season, the Internal Revenue Service encourages individuals and businesses to safeguard themselves against natural disasters by taking a few simple steps.

Create a Backup Set of Records Electronically

Taxpayers should keep a set of backup records in a safe place. The backup should be stored away from the original set.

Keeping a backup set of records –– including, for example, bank statements, tax returns, insurance policies, etc. –– is easier now that many financial institutions provide statements and documents electronically, and much financial information is available on the Internet. Even if the original records are provided only on paper, they can be scanned into an electronic format. With documents in electronic form, taxpayers can download them to a backup storage device, like an external hard drive, or burn them to a CD or DVD.

Document Valuables

Another step a taxpayer can take to prepare for disaster is to photograph or videotape the contents of his or her home, especially items of higher value. The IRS has a disaster loss workbook, Publication 584, which can help taxpayers compile a room-by-room list of belongings.

A photographic record can help an individual prove the market value of items for insurance and casualty loss claims. Photos should be stored with a friend or family member who lives outside the area.

Update Emergency Plans

Emergency plans should be reviewed annually. Personal and business situations change over time as do preparedness needs. When employers hire new employees or when a company or organization changes functions, plans should be updated accordingly and employees should be informed of the changes.

Check on Fiduciary Bonds

Employers who use payroll service providers should ask the provider if it has a fiduciary bond in place. The bond could protect the employer in the event of default by the payroll service provider.

IRS Ready to Help

If disaster strikes, an affected taxpayer can call 1-866-562-5227 to speak with an IRS specialist trained to handle disaster-related issues.

Back copies of previously-filed tax returns and all attachments, including Forms W-2, can be requested by filing Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return.

Alternatively, transcripts showing most line items on these returns can be ordered on-line, by calling 1-800-908-9946 or by using Form 4506T-EZ, Short Form Request for Individual Tax Return Transcript or Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return.
Related Items:

Note. From Issue Number: IRS Tax Tip IRS-2012-60. Copyright 2012 by Copyright Holder. Reprinted with permission.

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Yet another great way to save.

Posted on August 6, 2021 by FCA Admin

 

If you are like most people, saving money can be a bit challenging.  Well how about splitting your direct deposit check amongst several bank accounts.   The month of May is National Direct Deposit and Direct Payment Month.  This is a great time to take advantage of the direct deposit option that many employers offer.  Several research studies have been conducted that show that employees who have a consistent savings pattern tend to be better off.  Direct deposit especially if split among two or more accounts, is a great way to get started.   Other benefits of is that if you use direct deposit, you are less likely to waste your money.    Every bit counts. Experts even recommend depositing just enough to cover the bills into your checking account.  Then the rest can be deposited into a savings account.

I think direct deposit splitting is a great idea.  It helps to develop a consistent savings pattern.  Additionally, it also helps build discipline.  Discipline is the foundation for financial health and security.

For more information, visit the NACHA website at http://www.nacha.org/.

 

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Save Money on Childcare

Posted on February 10, 2021 by FCA Admin

I just had to share this article.  Great advice for parents considering the current state of the economy.

http://www.smartmoney.com/spending/deals/8-ways-to-save-money-responsibly-on-baby-care/

 

 

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter: http:// twitter.com/1stCapAdvise

 

 

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Six Social Media Tools to Help You Get Free Tax Information

Posted on December 15, 2020 by FCA Admin

Issue Number:    IRS Summertime Tax Tip 2012-10

Inside This Issue

The IRS uses a variety of technologies to help you get the tax information you need. Here are six ways the IRS uses social media to share information on tax changes, initiatives, products and services:

1. IRS2Go 2.0  IRS’s smartphone application allows you to check your refund status, get tax updates and follow the IRS via Twitter. IRS2Go 2.0 is available in the Apple App store for iPhone or iPod touch devices and in the GooglePlay store for Android devices.

2. YouTube IRSvideos  YouTube Channel offers short, informative clips on various tax-related topics. The videos are available in English, American Sign Language and Spanish.

3. Twitter  IRS tweets include tax-related announcements, news for tax professionals and updates for job seekers. Follow us @IRSnews.

4. Facebook  IRS has Facebook pages that post tax information for individuals, tax professionals, and for those needing help resolving long-standing tax issues with the IRS.

5. Audio files for Podcasts  These short audio recordings provide information on tax-related topics — one per podcast. The audio files (along with transcripts) are available on iTunes or through the Multimedia Center on IRS.gov.

6. Widgets  These tools, which can be placed on websites, blogs or social media networks, direct people to visit IRS.gov for information. The widgets feature the latest tax initiatives and programs and can be found on Marketing Express, the marketing site that allows IRS partners and tax preparers to customize their IRS communications products.

As a reminder, the IRS uses these tools to share information with you. Do not post any personal information on social media sites, especially your Social Security number or other confidential information. The IRS will not be able to answer personal tax or account questions on any of these platforms.

For more about IRS’s social media tools, visit IRS.gov and click on “Social Media.”

Note. From Issue Number: IRS Tax Tip IRS-2012-10. Copyright 2012 by Copyright Holder. Reprinted with permission.

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Taxes and the Military

Posted on June 18, 2020 by FCA Admin

As with anything else, it’s vital for military personnel to understand their tax rights and benefits.  Too often many tax benefits are overlooked because military personnel are not aware of their rights.  Among these are:

  • Unreimbursed expenses related to moving can be deducted. For more information refer to IRS Publication 3, Armed Forces’ Tax Guide.
  • Combat Pay is not taxable for any period served in a combat zone.
  • Tax filing deadlines are usually extended for members of the military.
  • Certain costs associated with the upkeep of uniforms are deductible.
  • Power of Attorney is allowed for spouses unable to file joint returns due to military duty.
  • Members of the US Armed Forces Reserves can deduct unreimbursed travel expenses for traveling over 100 miles away from home to perform duty. 
  • Certain allowances paid to ROTC Students in advance training are non taxable.
  • Job Hunting expenses are also deductible for military personnel who are making the transition to the workforce from the military.
  • Lastly, free tax assistance is available for military personnel at tax time. 

 

Your tax accountant is a great resource for understanding your tax rights and benefits. Additionally, IRS Publication 3, Armed Forces’ Tax Guide is also a great resource.

 

Follow us on Twitter.: http://twitter.com/1stCapAdvise

 

 

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IRS Tip Sheet on Gambling Income and Losses

Posted on May 12, 2020 by FCA Admin

Issue Number:    IRS Summertime Tax Tip 2014-03

Inside This Issue

Whether you like to play the ponies, roll the dice or pull the slots, your gambling winnings are taxable. You must report all your gambling income on your tax return. If you’re a casual gambler, odds are good that these basic tax tips can help you at tax time next year:

1. Gambling income.  Gambling income includes winnings from lotteries, horse racing and casinos. It also includes cash prizes and the fair market value of prizes like cars and trips.

2. Payer tax form.  If you win, you may get a Form W-2G, Certain Gambling Winnings, from the payer. The IRS also gets a copy of the W-2G. The payer issues the form depending on the type of game you played, the amount of your winnings and other factors. You’ll also get the form if the payer withholds taxes from what you won.

3. How to report winnings.  You must report all your gambling winnings as income. This is true even if you don’t receive a Form W-2G. You normally report your winnings for the year on your tax return as ‘other income.’

4. How to deduct losses.  You can deduct your gambling losses on Schedule A, Itemized Deductions. The amount you can deduct is limited to the amount of the gambling income you report on your return.

5. Keep gambling receipts.  You should keep track of your wins and losses. This includes keeping items such as a gambling log or diary, receipts, statements or tickets.

For more on this topic see Publications 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income, and 529, Miscellaneous Deductions. Both are available on IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Additional IRS Resources:

IRS YouTube Videos:

IRS Podcasts:

Note. From Issue Number: IRS Tax Tip 2014-03.  Copyright 2014 by Copyright Holder. Reprinted with permission.

 

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Tips for Running a Green Business

Posted on January 23, 2020 by FCA Admin

Going green is the new buzz word.  Many people think that only large businesses can go green.  Well, no matter how big or small your business, there are many things that can be done to promote a cleaner environment.  Here are my top tips below:

  1. Turn off office equipment. It doesn’t make sense to leave your equipment on if it is not being used.  Leaving your equipment on wastes energy and wastes money.
  2. Use email.  Email is a fast means of communication and also does not waste paper. 
  3. Print documents double-sided. This is also an effective way to not waste paper.
  4. Use paper suppliers with maximum recycled content. Using recycled material is great for the environment.
  5. Investigate to see if existing office furniture can be refurbished.  This is cost effective and is safe for the environment. 
  6. Use suppliers who take back packaging for reuse.  This is yet another great method to improve our environment.
  7. Check faucets for dripping water. Reducing water usage is great for the environment and great for cost savings for your business.

 

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Eleven Tips for Taxpayers Who Owe Money to the IRS

Posted on December 6, 2019 by FCA Admin

Issue Number:    IRS Summertime Tax Tip 2012-13

Inside This Issue

Most taxpayers get a refund from the Internal Revenue Service when they file their tax returns. For those who don’t get a refund, the IRS offers several options to pay their tax bill.

Here are eleven tips for taxpayers who owe money to the IRS.

1. Tax bill payments If you get a bill from the IRS this summer that shows you owe late taxes, you are expected to promptly pay the tax owed including any penalties and interest. If you are unable to pay the amount due, it may be better for you to get a loan to pay the bill in full rather than to make installment payments to the IRS. That’s because the interest rate and penalties the IRS must charge by law are often higher than what lending institutions may be offering.

2. Electronic Funds Transfer You can pay your tax bill by electronic funds transfer, check, money order, cashier’s check or cash. To pay using electronic funds transfer, use the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System by either calling 800-555-4477 or using the online access at www.eftps.gov.

3. Credit card payments You can pay your bill with a credit card. Again, the interest rate on a credit card may be lower than the combination of interest and penalties the IRS must charge. To pay by credit card contact one of the following processing companies:

– WorldPay US, Inc. at 888-9PAY-TAX (or www.payUSAtax.com),

– Official Payments Corporation at 888-UPAY-TAX (or www.officialpayments.com/fed), or

– Link2Gov Corporation at 888-PAY-1040 (or www.pay1040.com).

4. Additional time to pay Based on your circumstances, you may be granted a short additional time to pay your tax in full. A brief additional amount of time to pay can be requested through the Online Payment Agreement application at IRS.gov or by calling 800-829-1040. There generally is no set up fee for a short-term agreement.

5. Installment Agreement You may request an installment agreement if you cannot pay the total tax you owe in full. This is an agreement between you and the IRS to pay the amount due in monthly installment payments. You must first file all required returns and be current with estimated tax payments.

6. Apply Using Form 9465 You can complete and mail an IRS Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, along with your bill using the envelope you received from the IRS. The IRS will inform you (usually within 30 days) whether your request is approved, denied, or if additional information is needed.

7. Apply Using Online Payment Agreement If you owe $50,000 or less in combined tax, penalties and interest, you can request an installment agreement using the Online Payment Agreement application at IRS.gov. You may still qualify for an installment agreement if you owe more than $50,000, but you are required to complete a Form 433F, Collection Information Statement, before the IRS will consider an installment agreement.

8. User fees If an installment agreement is approved, a one-time user fee will be charged. The user fee for a new agreement is $105 or $52 for agreements where payments are deducted directly from your bank account. For eligible individuals with lower incomes, the fee can be reduced to $43.

9. Offer in Compromise IRS is now offering more flexible terms with its Offer-in-Compromise (OIC) Program. An OIC is an agreement between a taxpayer and the IRS that settles the taxpayer’s tax debt for less than the full amount owed. An OIC is generally accepted only if the IRS believes, after assessing the taxpayer’s financial situation, that the tax debt can’t be paid in full as a lump sum or through a payment agreement.

10. Check withholding Taxpayers who have a balance due may want to consider changing their Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate, with their employer.

11. Fresh Start The IRS has a program to help struggling taxpayers get a fresh start. Through the Fresh Start program, individuals and small businesses may be able to pay the taxes they owe without facing additional or unnecessary burden.

For more information about payment options or IRS’s Fresh Start program, visit IRS.gov. IRS Publications 594, The IRS Collection Process, and 966, Electronic Choices to Pay All Your Federal Taxes, also provide additional information regarding your payment options. These publications and Forms 9465 and W-4 can be obtained from IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).
Links:

Note. From Issue Number: IRS Tax Tip IRS-2012-13. Copyright 2012 by Copyright Holder. Reprinted with permission.

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Beware of Bogus IRS Emails

Posted on November 14, 2019 by FCA Admin

Issue Number:    IRS Tax Tip 2013-19

Inside This Issue

The IRS receives thousands of reports every year from taxpayers who receive emails out-of-the-blue claiming to be from the IRS. Scammers use the IRS name or logo to make the message appear authentic so you will respond to it. In reality, it’s a scam known as “phishing,” attempting to trick you into revealing your personal and financial information. The criminals then use this information to commit identity theft or steal your money.

The IRS has this advice for anyone who receives an email claiming to be from the IRS or directing you to an IRS site:

  • Do not reply to the message;
  • Do not open any attachments. Attachments may contain malicious code that will infect your computer; and
  • Do not click on any links in a suspicious email or phishing website and do not enter confidential information. Visit the IRS website and click on ‘Identity Theft’ at the bottom of the page for more information.

Here are five other key points the IRS wants you to know about phishing scams.

1. The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email or social media channels to request personal or financial information;

2. The IRS never asks for detailed personal and financial information like PIN numbers, passwords or similar secret access information for credit card, bank or other financial accounts;

3. The address of the official IRS website is www.irs.gov. Do not be misled by sites claiming to be the IRS but ending in .com, .net, .org or anything other than .gov. If you discover a website that claims to be the IRS but you suspect it is bogus, do not provide any personal information on their site and report it to the IRS;

4. If you receive a phone call, fax or letter in the mail from an individual claiming to be from the IRS but you suspect they are not an IRS employee, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to determine if the IRS has a legitimate need to contact you. Report any bogus correspondence. Forward a suspicious email to phishing@irs.gov;

5. You can help the IRS and other law enforcement agencies shut down these schemes. Visit the IRS.gov website to get details on how to report scams and helpful resources if you are the victim of a scam. Click on “Reporting Phishing” at the bottom of the page.
Additional IRS Resources:

IRS YouTube Videos:

IRS Podcasts

Note. From Issue Number: IRS Tax Tip 2013-19. Copyright 2013 by Copyright Holder. Reprinted with permission.

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