The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires tax preparation professionals use a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). The number serves in a similar manner as a Social Security Number, providing a tax preparer with a unique identifier. The IRS states these numbers help tax preparers avoid using their own Social Security […]
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has a number of tools it can use to demand tax payment from taxpayers. Those who fail to make their payments can face additional fees and have the government take the money directly from their paycheck through levies. Another tool available to the IRS: they […]
Whistleblowers who inform the IRS about noncompliant tax behavior by others are eligible for financial awards in certain circumstances. In most cases, the taxpayer in question is the whistleblower’s employer. The IRS operates a program that makes the awards. In this post, we’ll address common questions about the program. What […]
We live in a world where global investments are common. Flights can get us from country to country in a matter of hours. This ability to travel has resulted in the ability to become global citizens — putting large quantities of time and money in different countries. United States citizens that choose […]
One of the benefits of owning your own business is the ability to take advantage of certain tax savings. In some cases, space in your home used as an office could result in a deduction as well as computer expenses and the like. These more traditional expenses are well defined by the […]
The line between a gift and income in the eyes of taxpayers is not always clear. A recent case, Felton v. Commissioner, provides an example. In this case, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) argues a taxpayer’s claimed gift was actually income. As such, it would be subject to a higher tax […]
As we enter tax season, it is good to keep in mind some common red flags that can trigger an audit by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Things that can increase the risk of an audit include: Filing unusual returns. Any tax return that includes large or questionable items that are […]
Cristiano Ronaldo, soccer superstar from Portugal, has agreed to plead guilty to charges of tax evasion. Ronaldo entered a Madrid court this past Tuesday and plead guilty, agreeing to pay a fine of $21.6 million dollars for his alleged tax fraud crimes. A bit of history: The basis of the allegations In […]
The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) has agreed to hear a case that questions whether the due process clause prohibits states from taxing trusts based on the trust beneficiaries’ in-state residency. It is important to note this case addresses the taxation of the trust income itself, not distributions. […]
The United States is currently entering the third week of a partial government shutdown. As the shutdown continues without an apparent end in sight, taxpayers are likely voicing concerns about how the shutdown will impact their taxes. The truth is the shutdown will impact tax returns. The extent of the […]