Don’t Take the Bait; Avoid Phishing Emails by Data Thieves

With the approach of the holidays and the 2018 filing season, the IRS, state tax agencies and the nation’s tax industry urge people to be on the lookout for new, sophisticated email phishing scams that could endanger their personal information and next year’s tax refund. The most common way for cyber-criminals to steal bank account […]

National Tax Security Awareness Week: Phishing Email Scams

The IRS reminds people to be on the lookout for new, sophisticated email phishing scams. These scams not only endanger someone’s personal information, but they can also affect a taxpayer’s refund in 2018. This tip is part of National Tax Security Awareness Week. The IRS is partnering with state tax agencies, the tax industry and […]

National Tax Security Awareness Week: Keep Online Data Safe

During the holiday shopping season, shoppers are looking for the perfect gifts. At the same time, criminals are looking for sensitive data. This data includes credit card numbers, financial accounts and Social Security numbers. Cybercriminals can use this information to file a fraudulent tax return. This tip is part of National Tax Security Awareness Week. […]

Five Things to Remember about Hobby Income and Expenses

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. […]

Get Ready for Taxes: Donations May Cut Tax Bills

WASHINGTON ― The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers looking to maximize their tax savings before the end of the year to consider charitable giving. Many taxpayers may already be planning on doing so for #GivingTuesday on Nov. 28. Giving money or goods to a tax-exempt charity before Dec. 31 can usually be deducted on that […]

Seven Things to Do When an IRS Letter Arrives

The IRS mails millions of letters to taxpayers every year for many reasons. Here are seven simple suggestions on how individuals can handle a letter or notice from the IRS: 1. Don’t panic. Simply responding will take care of most IRS letters and notices. 2. Read the entire letter carefully. Most letters deal with a specific issue […]

Taxpayers Should do an End-of-Year Withholding Check-up

As the end of the year approaches, the IRS encourages taxpayers to consider a tax withholding checkup. When taxpayers take a close look to make sure the right amount of tax is withheld now, they can avoid an unexpected tax bill next year. Here are five examples of taxpayers who would benefit from a withholding […]

Five Facts about Charitable Contributions

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 […]

Learn about Tax Benefits for Education

The beginning of the school year is a good time for a reminder of the tax benefits for education. These benefits can help offset qualifying education costs. Here is information about two tax credits available to those who pay higher education costs for themselves, a spouse or a dependent. The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) is: Worth […]

IRS Reminds Educators of Tax Benefits

  WASHINGTON — As teachers, administrators and aides have launched into their fall semester, taxes may not be on the top of their list. However, knowing what to keep track of now can help reduce the burden at tax time. The Internal Revenue Service reminds educators that there are three key work-related tax benefits that […]