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Maximum educator expense deduction is $300 in 2023

As the new school year begins, the Internal Revenue Service reminds teachers and other educators that they’ll be able to deduct up to $300 of out-of-pocket classroom expenses for 2023 when they file their federal income tax return next year. This is the same limit that applied in 2022, the first year this provision became […]

Educator expense deduction rises to $300 in 2022

As the new school year begins, the Internal Revenue Service reminds teachers and other educators that they’ll be able to deduct up to $300 of out-of-pocket classroom expenses for 2022 when they file their federal income tax return next year. This is the first time the annual limit has increased since the special educator expense […]

What business owners need to do when closing their doors for good

There are a few things business owners need to do before they close their business. Of course, they need to fulfill their federal tax responsibilities. It’s also important to notify the IRS of their plans. Business owners must take these steps when closing a business: File a final tax return and related forms. The type of […]

Some things to know about crowdfunding and taxes

Crowdfunding is a popular way to raise money online. People often use crowdfunding to fundraise for a business, for charity, or for gifts. It’s important to know that money raised through crowdfunding may be taxable. Some money raised through crowdfunding may be considered a gift. Under federal tax law, gross income includes all income from […]

How to use the IRS portal

Need to update direct deposit information? Many families are asking how they can change the bank account where they get their monthly Child Tax Credit payment. First, families should use the Child Tax Credit Update Portal to confirm their eligibility for the payments. If eligible, the tool will also indicate whether they are enrolled to […]

Retirement and taxes: Understanding IRAs

Individual Retirement Arrangements, or IRAs, provide tax incentives for people to make investments that can provide financial security for their retirement. These accounts can be set up with a bank or other financial institution, a life insurance company, mutual fund or stockbroker. Here’s basic overview to help people better understand this type of retirement savings […]

What to know about making 2021 estimated tax payments

Small business owners, self-employed people, and some wage earners should look into whether they should make estimated tax payments this year. Doing so can help them avoid an unexpected tax bill and possibly a penalty when they file next year. Taxpayers who earn a paycheck usually have their employer withhold tax from their checks. This […]

Get an IP PIN to help stop identity thieves

The IRS and its Security Summit partners recently kicked off their annual summer campaign. This year’s theme, Boost Security Immunity: Fight Against Identity Theft, urges tax pros to step up their efforts to protect client data. An IP PIN is a valuable tool that can help in this effort and it is now available to anyone who […]

Act promptly to avoid revocation of passports

Individuals with significant tax debt should act promptly to avoid revocation of passports The Internal Revenue Service today urged taxpayers to resolve their significant tax debts to avoid putting their passports in jeopardy. They should contact the IRS now to avoid delays in their travel plans later. Under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, […]

Six things for extension filers to remember

Oct. 15 is almost here, and it’s the last day to file for most people who requested an automatic six-month extension for their 2017 tax returns. These taxpayers should remember that they can file any time before Oct. 15 if they have all their required tax documents. They can also pay their tax bill in full, or make […]