News

 











IR-2023-17, January 31, 2023

WASHINGTON — To help taxpayers navigate the beginning of the tax filing season, the Internal Revenue Service today offered a checklist of reminders for people as they prepare to file their 2022 tax returns.

From gathering paperwork to filing a tax return, these easy steps will make tax preparation smoother in 2023:

1. Gather tax paperwork and records for accuracy to avoid missing a deduction or credit.

Taxpayers should have all their important and necessary documents before preparing their return. This helps people file a complete and accurate tax return. Errors and omissions slow down tax processing, including refund times.

Some information taxpayers need before they begin includes:


Social Security numbers for everyone listed on the tax return,
Bank account and routing numbers,
Various tax forms such as W-2s, 1099s, 1098s and other income documents or records of digital asset transactions,
Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace statement,
Any IRS letters citing an amount received for a certain tax deduction or credit.


2. Remember to report all types of income on the tax return.

This is important to avoid receiving a notice or a bill from the IRS. Don't forget to include income from:


Goods created and sold on online platforms,
Investment income,
Part-time or seasonal work,
Self-employment or other business activities,
Services provided through mobile apps.


3. File electronically with direct deposit to avoid delays in receiving a refund.

Avoid paper returns. Tax software helps individuals avoid mistakes by doing the math. It guides people through each section of their tax return using a question-and-answer format.

For those waiting on their 2021 tax return to be processed, here's a special tip to ensure their 2022 tax return is accepted by the IRS for processing. Make sure to enter $0 (zero dollars) for last year's adjusted gross income (AGI) on the 2022 tax return. Everyone else should enter their prior year's AGI from last year's return.













 











4. Free resources are available to help eligible taxpayers file online. Free help may also be available to qualified taxpayers.

IRS Free File provides a free online alternative to filing a paper tax return. IRS Free File is available to any individual or family who earned $73,000 or less in 2022.

With IRS Free File, leading tax software providers make their online products available for free as part of a 21-year partnership with the IRS. This year, there are seven products in English and one in Spanish. Taxpayers must access these products through the IRS website.

People who make over $73,000 can use the IRS' Free File Fillable Forms. These are the electronic version of IRS paper forms. This product is best for people who are comfortable preparing their own taxes.

Qualified taxpayers can also find free one-on-one tax preparation help around the nation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

5. Choose a tax professional carefully.

Most tax return preparers are professional, honest and provide excellent service to their clients. However, dishonest tax return preparers who file false income tax returns do exist. The IRS has a Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications and more on choosing a tax pro on IRS.gov.

6. Avoid phone delays; use online resources before calling the IRS.

To avoid waiting on hold, the IRS urges people to use IRS.gov to get answers to tax questions, check a refund status or pay taxes. There's no wait time or appointment needed — online tools and resources are available 24 hours a day. The IRS' Interactive Tax Assistant tool and Let Us Help You resources are especially helpful.

Additionally, the IRS suggests taxpayers stay up to date on important tax information online by:


Following the IRS' official social media accounts and email subscription lists to stay current on the latest tax topics and alerts.
Downloading the IRS2Go mobile app, watching IRS YouTube videos, or following the IRS on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates on tax changes, scam alerts, initiatives, products and services.






Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/key-points-to-keep-in-mind-when-filing-2022-tax-returns

   US TAX, U.S. TAX

 









IRS Tax Tip 2023-03, January 10, 2023

One of the first decisions taxpayers must make when completing a tax return is whether to take the standard deduction or itemize their deductions. There are several factors that can influence a taxpayer's choice, including changes to their tax situation, any changes to the standard deduction amount and recent tax law changes.

Generally, most taxpayers use the option that gives them the lowest overall tax.

As taxpayers begin to think about filing their tax return, here are some things they should know about standard and itemized deductions.

Standard deduction

The standard deduction amount increases slightly every year. The standard deduction amount depends on the taxpayer's filing status, whether they are 65 or older or blind, and whether another taxpayer can claim them as a dependent. Taxpayers who are age 65 or older on the last day of the year and don't itemize deductions are entitled to a higher standard deduction.

Most filers who use Form 1040 can find their standard deduction on the first page of the form. The standard deduction for most filers of Form 1040-SR, U.S. Tax Return for Seniors, is on the last page of that form.

According to the Instructions for Form 1040 and 1040-SR, not all taxpayers can take a standard deduction, including:


A married individual filing as married filing separately whose spouse itemizes deductions - if one spouse itemizes on a separate return, both must itemize.
An individual who files a tax return for a period of less than 12 months. This is uncommon and could be due to a change in their annual accounting period.
An individual who was a nonresident alien or a dual-status alien during the year. Nonresident aliens who are married to a U.S. citizen or resident alien, however, can take the standard deduction in certain situations.













 









Itemized deductions

Taxpayers who choose to itemize deductions may do so by filing Schedule A (Form 1040), Itemized Deductions. Itemized deductions that taxpayers may claim can include:


State and local income or sales taxes.
Real estate and personal property taxes.
Home mortgage interest.
Personal casualty and theft losses from a federally declared disaster.
Gifts to a qualified charity.
Unreimbursed medical and dental expenses that exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income.


Some itemized deductions, such as the deduction for taxes, may be limited. Taxpayers should review the instructions for Schedule A (Form 1040) for more information on limitations.

More information:


How Much Is My Standard Deduction?
Topic No. 551, Standard Deduction






Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-basics-understanding-the-difference-between-standard-and-itemized-deductions

   US TAX, U.S. TAX

 









IRS Tax Tip 2023-04, January 11, 2023

Many taxpayers make quarterly estimated tax payments during the year to stay current on their taxes. Anyone who paid too little tax in 2022 needs to make a fourth quarter payment on or before January 17 to avoid an unexpected potential tax bill or penalty when they file in 2023.

Here's who needs to make a payment

Taxpayers who earn or receive income that is not subject to tax withholding such as self-employed people or independent contractors should pay their taxes quarterly to the IRS.

In addition, people who owed tax when they filed their current year tax return often find themselves in the same situation again when they file the next year, so they may want to consider making estimated tax payments. Taxpayers in this situation often include:


Those who itemized in the past but are now taking the standard deduction
Two wage-earner households
Employees with non-wage sources of income such as dividends
Those with complex tax situations
Those who didn't increase their tax withholding


Understanding what's taxable

Most income is taxable, including employment income, refund interest and income from the gig economy and digital assets. When estimating quarterly tax payments, taxpayers should include all forms of earned income, including from part-time work, side jobs or the sale of goods.

Also, various financial transactions, especially those made late in the year, can have an unexpected tax impact that may call for estimated tax payments. Examples include year-end and holiday bonuses, stock dividends, capital gains distributions from mutual funds, and stocks, bonds, virtual currency, real estate or other property sold at a profit













 









Delay in requirement for Forms 1099-K

On December 23, 2022, the IRS announced that calendar year 2022 will be treated as a transition year for the reduced reporting threshold of $600. For calendar year 2022, third-party settlement organizations that issue Form 1099-K are only required to report transactions where gross payments exceed $20,000 and there are more than 200 transactions. The IRS also issued frequently asked questions to help people who may receive Forms 1099-K.

Taxpayers must accurately report all income, even if they do not receive a Form 1099-K or other information return.

How to make an estimated tax payment

The fastest and easiest way taxpayers can make an estimated tax payment is to do so electronically using IRS Direct Pay. Taxpayers can schedule a payment before the January 17 deadline. They can also make a payment through their IRS Online Account or the Electronic Filing Tax Payment System.

More information on other payment options is available at Pay Online.

Stay current using the Withholding Estimator

The Tax Withholding Estimator on IRS.gov can often help people determine if they need to make an estimated tax payment. It also helps people calculate the correct amount of tax to withhold throughout the year based on their complete set of tax facts and circumstances. Taxpayers can also use the worksheet included with estimated tax Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals, or read through Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax.





Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/interest-rates-increase-for-the-first-quarter-of-2023

   US TAX, U.S. TAX

 

 

 

IR-2022-213, December 6, 2022

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service encouraged taxpayers to take important actions this month to help them file their 2022 federal tax returns.

This is the second in a series of reminders to help taxpayers get ready for the upcoming tax filing season. A "Get Ready" page outlines steps taxpayers can take now to make tax filing easier in 2023.

Here's what's new and some key items for taxpayers to consider before they file next year.

Reporting rules changed for Form 1099-K. Taxpayers should receive Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions, by January 31, 2023, if they received third party payments in tax year 2022 for goods and services that exceeded $600.

There's no change to the taxability of income. All income, including from part-time work, side jobs or the sale of goods is still taxable. Taxpayers must report all income on their tax return unless it's excluded by law, whether they receive a Form 1099-K, a Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation, or any other information return.

Prior to 2022, Form 1099-K was issued for third party networks transactions only if the total number of transactions exceeded 200 for the year and the aggregate amount of these transactions exceeded $20,000. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 lowered the reporting threshold for third party networks that process payments for those doing business.

Now a single transaction exceeding $600 can require the third party platform to issue a 1099-K. Money received through third party payment networks from friends and relatives as personal gifts or reimbursements for personal expenses is not taxable.

The IRS cautions people in this category who may be receiving a Form 1099 for the first time – especially "early filers" who typically file a tax return during the month of January or early February – to be careful and make sure they have all of their key income documents before submitting a tax return. A little extra caution could save people additional time and effort related to filing an amended tax return. And if they have untaxed income on a Form 1099 that isn't reflected on the tax return they initially file, that could mean they need to submit a tax payment with an amended tax return.

If the information is incorrect on the 1099-K, taxpayers should contact the payer immediately, whose name appears in the upper left corner on the form. The IRS cannot correct it.

Some tax credits return to 2019 levels. This means that affected taxpayers will likely receive a significantly smaller refund compared with the previous tax year. Changes include amounts for the Child Tax Credit (CTC), Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child and Dependent Care Credit.


Those who got $3,600 per dependent in 2021 for the CTC will, if eligible, get $2,000 for the 2022 tax year.
For the EITC, eligible taxpayers with no children who received roughly $1,500 in 2021 will now get $500 in 2022.
The Child and Dependent Care Credit returns to a maximum of $2,100 in 2022 instead of $8,000 in 2021.


Visit Credits and Deductions for more details.

No above-the-line charitable deductions. During COVID, taxpayers could take up to a $600 charitable donation tax deduction on their tax returns. However, in 2022, those who take a standard deduction may not take an above-the-line deduction for charitable donations.

More people may be eligible for the Premium Tax Credit. For tax year 2022, taxpayers may still qualify for temporarily expanded eligibility for the premium tax credit.

Eligibility rules changed to claim a tax credit for clean vehicles. Review the changes under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 to qualify for a Clean Vehicle Credit.















Avoid refund delays and understand refund timing

Many different factors can affect the timing of a refund after the IRS receives a return. Although the IRS issues most refunds in less than 21 days, the IRS cautions taxpayers not to rely on receiving a 2022 federal tax refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or paying bills. Some returns may require additional review and may take longer to process if IRS systems detect a possible error, the return is missing information or there is suspected identity theft or fraud.

Also, the IRS cannot issue refunds for people claiming the EITC or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) before mid-February. The law requires the IRS to hold the entire refund – not just the portion associated with EITC or ACTC.

Last quarterly payment for 2022 is due on January 17, 2023

Taxpayers may need to consider estimated or additional tax payments due to non-wage income from unemployment, self-employment, annuity income or even digital assets. The Tax Withholding Estimator on IRS.gov can help wage earners determine if there is a need to consider an additional tax payment to avoid an unexpected tax bill when they file.

Gather 2022 tax documents

Taxpayers should develop a recordkeeping system − electronic or paper − that keeps important information in one place. This includes year-end income documents like Forms W-2 from employers, Forms 1099 from banks or other payers, Form 1099-K from third party payment networks, Form 1099-NEC for nonemployee compensation, Form 1099-MISC for miscellaneous income, or Form 1099-INT if you were paid interest, as well as records documenting all digital asset transactions.

Ensuring their tax records are complete before filing helps taxpayers avoid errors that lead to processing delays. When they have all their documentation, taxpayers are in the best position to file an accurate return and avoid processing or refund delays or IRS letters.

Sign in to Online Account

An IRS Online Account lets taxpayers securely access their personal tax information, including tax return transcripts, payment history, certain notices, prior year adjusted gross income and power of attorney information. Filers can log in to verify if their name and address are correct. They should notify IRS if their address has changed. They must notify the Social Security Administration of a legal name change to avoid a delay in processing their tax return.

Get banked to speed refunds with direct deposit

The fastest way to get a tax refund is by filing electronically and choosing direct deposit. Direct deposit is faster than waiting for a paper check in the mail. It also avoids the possibility that a refund check could be lost, stolen or returned to the IRS as undeliverable.

Don't have a bank account? Learn how to open an account at an FDIC-Insured bank or through the National Credit Union Locator Tool. Veterans should see the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) for access to financial services at participating banks.

Prepaid debit cards or mobile apps may allow direct deposit of tax refunds. They must have routing and account numbers associated with them that can be entered on a tax return. Taxpayers can check with the mobile app provider or financial institution to confirm which numbers to use.

Bookmark resources

Taxpayers can download Publication 5348, Get Ready to FilePDF, or Publication 5349, Year-Round Tax Planning is for EveryonePDF, for more information to help them get ready to file.





Source:https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/get-ready-for-taxes-whats-new-and-what-to-consider-when-filing-in-2023

   US TAX, U.S. TAX

 







IR-2022-206, November 29, 2022

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today announced that interest rates will increase for the calendar quarter beginning January 1, 2023.

For individuals, the rate for overpayments and underpayments will be 7% per year, compounded daily, up from 6% for the quarter that began on October 1. Here is a complete list of the new rates:


7% for overpayments (payments made in excess of the amount owed), 6% for corporations.
4.5% for the portion of a corporate overpayment exceeding $10,000.
7% for underpayments. (taxes owed but not fully paid)
9% for large corporate underpayments.













 







Under the Internal Revenue Code, the rate of interest is determined on a quarterly basis. For taxpayers other than corporations, the overpayment and underpayment rate is the federal short-term rate plus 3 percentage points.

Generally, in the case of a corporation, the underpayment rate is the federal short-term rate plus 3 percentage points and the overpayment rate is the federal short-term rate plus 2 percentage points. The rate for large corporate underpayments is the federal short-term rate plus 5 percentage points. The rate on the portion of a corporate overpayment of tax exceeding $10,000 for a taxable period is the federal short-term rate plus one-half (0.5) of a percentage point.

The interest rates announced today are computed from the federal short-term rate determined during October 2022. See the revenue ruling for details.

Revenue Ruling 2022-23PDF announcing the rates of interest will appear in Internal Revenue Bulletin 2022-51, dated December 19, 2022.



Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/interest-rates-increase-for-the-first-quarter-of-2023

   US TAX, U.S. TAX

 





Issue Number:    IR-2022-203   November 22, 2022



WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today encouraged taxpayers to take simple steps before the end of the year to make filing their 2022 federal tax return easier. With a little advance preparation, a preview of tax changes and convenient online tools, taxpayers can approach the upcoming tax season with confidence.

Filers can visit the Get Ready webpage at IRS.gov/getready to find guidance on what’s new and what to consider when filing a 2022 tax return. They can also find helpful information on organizing tax records and a list of online tools and resources.



Get Ready by gathering tax records:



When filers have all their tax documentation gathered and organized, they’re in the best position to file an accurate return and avoid processing or refund delays or receiving IRS letters. Now’s a good time for taxpayers to consider financial transactions that occurred in 2022, if they’re taxable and how they should be reported.

The IRS encourages taxpayers to develop an electronic or paper recordkeeping system to store tax-related information in one place for easy access. Taxpayers should keep copies of filed tax returns and their supporting documents for at least three years.

Before January, taxpayers should confirm that their employer, bank and other payers have their current mailing address and email address to ensure they receive their year-end financial statements. Typically, year-end forms start arriving by mail or are available online in mid-to-late January. Taxpayers should carefully review each income statement for accuracy and contact the issuer to correct information that needs to be updated.



Get Ready for what’s new for Tax Year 2022:

With the end of the year approaching, time is running out to take advantage of the Tax Withholding Estimator on IRS.gov. This online tool is designed to help taxpayers determine the right amount of tax to have withheld from their paycheck. Some people may have life changes like getting married or divorced, welcoming a child or taking on a second job. Other taxpayers may need to consider estimated tax payments due to non-wage income from unemployment, self-employment, annuity income or even digital assets. The last quarterly payment for 2022 is due on Jan. 17, 2023. The Tax Withholding Estimator on IRS.gov can help wage earners determine if there is a need to adjust their withholding, consider additional tax payments, or submit a new W-4 form to their employer to avoid an unexpected tax bill when they file.

As taxpayers gather tax records, they should remember that most income is taxable. This includes unemployment income, refund interest and income from the gig economy and digital assets. 

Taxpayers should report the income they earned, including from part-time work, side jobs or the sale of goods. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 lowered the reporting threshold for third-party networks that process payments for those doing business. Prior to 2022, Form 1099-K was issued for third-party payment network transactions only if the total number of transactions exceeded 200 for the year and the aggregate amount of these transactions exceeded $20,000. Now a single transaction exceeding $600 can trigger a 1099-K. The lower information reporting threshold and the summary of income on Form 1099-K enables taxpayers to more easily track the amounts received. Remember, money received through third-party payment applications from friends and relatives as personal gifts or reimbursements for personal expenses is not taxable. Those who receive a 1099-K reflecting income they didn’t earn should call the issuer. The IRS cannot correct it.

Credit amounts also change each year like the Child Tax Credit (CTC), Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Dependent Care Credit. Taxpayers can use the Interactive Tax Assistant on IRS.gov to determine their eligibility for tax credits. Some taxpayers may qualify this year for the expanded eligibility for the Premium Tax Credit, while others may qualify for a Clean Vehicle Credit through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

Refunds may be smaller in 2023. Taxpayers will not receive an additional stimulus payment with a 2023 tax refund because there were no Economic Impact Payments for 2022. In addition, taxpayers who don’t itemize and take the standard deduction, won’t be able to deduct their charitable contributions.

The IRS cautions taxpayers not to rely on receiving a 2022 federal tax refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or paying bills. Some returns may require additional review and may take longer. For example, the IRS and its partners in the tax industry, continue to strengthen security reviews to protect against identity theft. Additionally, refunds for people claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) can’t be issued before mid-February. The law requires the IRS to hold the entire refund – not just the portion associated with EITC or ACTC. This law helps ensure taxpayers receive the refund they're due by giving the IRS time to detect and prevent fraud.

For taxpayers who are still waiting for confirmation that last year’s tax return processed, or for a tax year 2021 refund or stimulus payment to process, their patience is appreciated. As of Nov. 11, 2022, the IRS had 3.7 million unprocessed individual returns received this year. These include tax year 2021 returns and late filed prior year returns. Of these, 1.7 million returns require error correction or other special handling, and 2 million are paper returns waiting to be reviewed and processed. They also had 900,000 unprocessed Forms 1040-X for amended tax returns. The IRS is processing these amended returns in the order received and the current timeframe can be more than 20 weeks. Taxpayers should continue to check Where's My Amended Return? for the most up-to-date processing status available.



Renew expiring tax ID numbers:

Taxpayers should ensure their Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) hasn’t expired before filing a 2022 tax return. Those who need to file a tax return, should submit a Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number now, to renew their ITIN. Taxpayers who fail to renew an ITIN before filing a tax return next year could face a delayed refund and may be ineligible for certain tax credits. Applying now will help avoid the rush as well as refund and processing delays in 2023.












 





Bookmark the following tools on IRS.gov:

Online tools are easy to use and available to taxpayers 24 hours a day. They provide key information about tax accounts and a convenient way to pay taxes. IRS.gov provides information in many languages and enhanced services for people with disabilities, including the Accessibility Helpline. Taxpayers who need accessibility assistance may call 833-690-0598. Taxpayers should use IRS.gov as their first and primary resource for accurate tax information.



Let Us Help You page. The Let Us Help You page on IRS.gov has links to information and resources on a wide range of topics.
Online Account. An IRS online account lets taxpayers securely access their personal tax information, including tax return transcripts, payment history, certain notices, prior year adjusted gross income and power of attorney information. Filers can log in to verify if their name and address is correct. They should notify IRS if their address has changed. They must notify the Social Security Administration of a legal name change to avoid a delay in processing their tax return.
IRS Free File. Almost everyone can file electronically for free on IRS.gov/freefile or with the IRS2Go app. The IRS Free File program, available only through IRS.gov, offers brand-name tax preparation software packages at no cost. The software does all the work of finding deductions, credits and exemptions for filers. It‘s free for those who qualify. Some Free File packages offer free state tax return preparation. Those who are comfortable preparing their own taxes can use Free File Fillable Forms, regardless of their income, to file their tax return either online or by mail.
Find a tax professional. The Choosing a Tax Professional page on IRS.gov has a wealth of information to help filers choose a tax professional. In addition, the Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications can help taxpayers find preparers in their area who hold professional credentials recognized by the IRS, or who hold an Annual Filing Season Program Record of Completion.
Interactive Tax Assistant. The Interactive Tax Assistant is a tool that provides answers to many tax questions. It can determine if a type of income is taxable and eligibility to claim certain credits or deductions. It also provides answers for general questions, such as determining filing requirement, filing status or eligibility to claim a dependent.
Where's My Refund? Taxpayers can use the Where’s My Refund? tool to check the status of their refund. Current year refund information is typically available online within 24 hours after the IRS receives an e-filed tax return. A paper return status can take up to four weeks to appear after it is mailed. The Where’s My Refund? tool updates once every 24 hours, usually overnight, so filers only need to check once a day.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.




Get refunds fast with Direct Deposit : 

Taxpayers should prepare to file electronically and choose Direct Deposit for their tax refund – it’s the fastest and safest way to file and get a refund. Even when filing a paper return, choosing a direct deposit refund can save time. For those who do not have a bank account, the FDIC website offers information to help people open an account online.

Taxpayers can download Publication 5349, Tax Preparation is for Everyone, for more information to help them get ready to file.

Subscribe to IRS Tax Tips

Source: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USIRS/bulletins/3396b1b?reqfrom=share

   US TAX, U.S. TAX

 





IRS Tax Tip 2022-169, November 3, 2022

By law, taxpayers interacting with the IRS have the right to finality. This right comes into play for taxpayers who are going through an audit. These taxpayers have the right to know when the IRS has finished the audit. This is one of ten basic rights — known collectively as the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.

Here's what taxpayers in the process of an audit, should know about their right to finality:




Taxpayers have the right to know:

The maximum amount of time they have to challenge the IRS's position.
The maximum amount of time the IRS has to audit a particular tax year or collect a tax debt. 
When the IRS has finished an audit.






The IRS generally has three years from the date taxpayers file their returns to assess any additional tax for that tax year.
There are some limited exceptions to the three-year rule, including when taxpayers fail to file returns for specific years or file false or fraudulent returns. In these cases, the IRS has an unlimited amount of time to assess tax for that tax year



The IRS generally has 10 years from the assessment date to collect unpaid taxes. This 10-year period cannot be extended, except for taxpayers who enter into installment agreements, or the IRS obtains court judgments.

 












 


A statutory notice of deficiency is a letter proposing additional tax the taxpayer owes. This notice must include the deadline for filing a petition with the tax court to challenge the amount proposed.
Generally, a taxpayer will only be subject to one audit per tax year. However, the IRS may reopen an audit for a previous tax year, if the IRS finds it necessary. This could happen, for example, if a taxpayer files a fraudulent return.


 

More Information:


Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer
Taxpayer Advocate Service


Subscribe to IRS Tax Tips

Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/under-the-taxpayer-bill-of-rights-all-taxpayers-have-the-right-to-finality-of-irs-matters

   US TAX, U.S. TAX

 





COVID Tax Tip 2022-166, October 31, 2022

More than nine million people may qualify for tax benefits but didn't claim them by filing a 2021 federal income tax return. Many in this group may be eligible to claim some or all of the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, the Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit and other tax credits. These and other tax benefits were expanded under last year's American Rescue Plan Act and other recent legislation.

The only way to get the valuable benefits is to file a 2021 tax return

Often, people can get these expanded tax benefits, even if they have little or no income from a job, business or other source. This means that many people who don't normally need to file a tax return should do so for 2021, even if they haven't been required to file in recent years.

Eligible people can file a tax return even if they don't receive a letter. There's no penalty for a refund claimed on a tax return filed after the regular April 2022 tax deadline.

The expanded tax benefits include:


An expanded Child Tax Credit. Families can claim this credit, even if they received monthly advance payments during the last half of 2021. The total credit can be as much as $3,600 per child.



A more generous Earned Income Tax Credit. The law boosted the EITC for childless workers. There are also changes that can help low- and moderate-income families with children. The credit can be as much as $1,502 for workers with no qualifying children, $3,618 for those with one child, $5,980 for those with two children and $6,728 for those with at least three children.



The Recovery Rebate Credit. Those who missed out on last year's third round of Economic Impact Payments may be eligible to claim the RRC. Often referred to as stimulus payments, this credit can help eligible people whose third payment was less than the full amount, including those who welcomed a child in 2021. The maximum credit is $1,400 for each qualifying adult, plus $1,400 for each eligible child or adult dependent.













 







An increased Child and Dependent Care Credit. Families who have care expenses for a child or dependent so they can work or look for work can get a tax credit worth up to $4,000 for one qualifying person and $8,000 for two or more qualifying persons.



A deduction for gifts to charity. Most tax-filers who take the standard deduction can deduct eligible cash contributions they made during 2021. Married couples filing jointly can deduct up to $600 in cash donations and individuals can deduct up to $300 in donations. In addition, itemizers who make large cash donations often qualify to deduct the full amount in 2021.


Free File to stay open until November 17

To help people claim these benefits, Free File will remain open for an extra month this year, until November 17, 2022. People with income of $73,000 or less can electronically file a return for free using brand-name software.

People can also visit ChildTaxCredit.gov to file a 2021 income tax return. Individuals with income below $12,500 and couples with income below $25,000 may be able to file a simple tax return to claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit and the Child Tax Credit.

More Information:


EITC Assistant
Does My Child/Dependent Qualify for the Child Tax Credit or the Credit for Other Dependents?
Am I Eligible to Claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit?


Subscribe to IRS Tax Tips

Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/nine-million-people-who-missed-expanded-tax-benefits-still-have-time-to-file

   US TAX, U.S. TAX

 





COVID Tax Tip 2022-165, October 27, 2022

Grandparents, foster parents or people caring for siblings or other relatives should check their eligibility to receive the 2021 child tax credit. People who claim at least one child as their dependent may not realize they could be eligible to benefit from the child tax credit.

Eligible taxpayers who received advance child tax credit payments last year should file a 2021 tax return to receive the second half of the credit. Eligible taxpayers who did not receive advance child tax credit payments last year can claim the full credit by filing a 2021 tax return.

People should review the eligibility rules to make sure they still qualify for the credit. The Interactive Tax Assistant can help people who aren't sure. Taxpayers who haven't qualified in the past should also check because they may now be able to claim the credit. The only way to receive the credit is to file a 2021 federal tax return. 

What is the child tax credit expansion?

The child tax credit expansion increased the amount of money families can receive per child and expanded who can receive the payments. The credit increased from $2,000 to $3,600 per child for children under the age of six, from $2,000 to $3,000 for children over the age of 6 and raised the age limit from 16 to 17 years old.

The child tax credit expansion applies to tax year 2021 only.

Who qualifies for the child tax credit?

Taxpayers can claim the credit for each qualifying child who has a Social Security number that is valid for employment in the United States and issued by the Social Security Administration before the due date of their tax return. This includes the filing extension if the taxpayer requested the extension by the tax return's original due date.

To be a qualifying child for the 2021 tax year, the child must fit certain criteria.












 






What are the eligibility factors?

Individuals qualify for the full amount of the 2021 child tax credit for each qualifying child if they meet all eligibility factors and their annual income is not more than:


$150,000 if they're married and filing a joint return, or if they're filing as a qualifying widow or widower.
$112,500 if they're filing as a head of household.
$75,000 if they're a single filer or are married and filing a separate return.


Parents and guardians with higher incomes may be eligible to claim a partial credit.

IRS Free File available until November 17 to help more people receive credits

The IRS Free File program offers eligible taxpayers brand-name tax preparation software to use at no cost. It's free for most individual filers who earned $73,000 or less in 2021. To help more people claim a variety of tax credits and benefits, Free File will remain open for an extra month this year, until November 17, 2022.

Taxpayers who earned more than $73,000 in 2021 and are comfortable preparing their own taxes can use Free File Fillable Forms. This electronic version of paper IRS tax forms is also used to file tax returns online.

More information:


2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments Frequently Asked Questions


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Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/grandparents-and-others-with-eligible-dependents-shouldnt-miss-out-on-the-2021-child-tax-credit

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COVID Tax Tip 2022-162, October 24, 2022

No matter how much people plan, unexpected events occur. Often, those events result in unplanned expenses. To cover these costs sometimes people, withdraw funds from their retirement savings early. While this may seem like an easy way to get cash quick, early withdrawals can come with heavy penalties and costly tax consequences. Here's some important info for people to consider before they dip into their hard-earned retirement savings.





Workplace retirement plans: 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b)

These plans can distribute benefits only when certain events occur. The plan's summary description should clearly state when a distribution can occur. It will also state if the plan allows hardship distributions, early withdrawals or loans.


Hardship distributions are withdrawals from a participant's account made because of an immediate and heavy financial need and it's limited to the amount necessary to satisfy that financial need. The need of the employee includes the need of the employee's spouse or dependent.
Hardship distributions are includible in gross income unless they consist of designated Roth contributions.
Distributions before the participant turns 65, or the plan's normal retirement age, if earlier, may result in an additional income tax of 10% of the amount withdrawn.
Repaying hardship distributions back to the plan or rolling it over to another plan or IRA isn't permitted.


Borrowers repay loans from these plans back to the retirement account. Borrowers should review the limits on loan amounts and other requirements. Taxes on this money don't occur if the loan meets the rules and repayment happens on schedule.

Required minimum distributions

Taxpayers must make required minimum distributions each year beginning with the year the taxpayer turns 72, 70 ½ if the taxpayer turned 70 ½ in 2019. People calculate the RMD by dividing the IRA account balance as of December 31 of the prior year by the applicable distribution period or life expectancy. RMDs are waived for 2020 due to COVID-19 relief provisions. Required minimum distributions are not required for Roth IRA.












 






IRAs and IRA-based plans

Individuals can take distributions from their IRA, SEP-IRA or SIMPLE-IRA at any time. Taxpayers do not need to show a hardship to take a distribution – they can just contact the financial institution managing the account.

Early distributions occur when individuals withdraw money from an Individual Retirement Account or retirement plan before age 59½.These retirement plan distributions are subject to income tax. Individuals must also pay an additional 10% early withdrawal tax unless an exception to the early distribution tax applies.

Regardless of age, the account holder must file a Form 1040 Individual Income Tax Return showing the amount of the withdrawal and complete and attach a Form 5329, Additional Taxes on Qualified Plans, Including IRAs, and Other Tax-Favored Accounts, to the tax return. These are requirements for early withdrawals and regular distributions.




Coronavirus-related distributions and loans

The CARES Act made it easier to access savings in IRAs and workplace retirement plans for those affected by the coronavirus. Certain distributions made from January 1, 2020, through December 30, 2020, from IRAs or workplace retirement plans to qualified individuals may be treated as coronavirus-related distributions.


These distributions aren't subject to the 10% additional tax on early distributions, including the 25% additional tax on certain SIMPLE IRA distributions.
Repayment to an IRA or workplace retirement plan can occur within three years.


Taxpayers can include Coronavirus-related distributions in income over 3 years, one-third each year, or if elected, in the year of the distribution.





Divorce-related distributions

Early distributions taken from a traditional IRA to satisfy a divorce requirements or court order are subject to regular income tax requirements and the 10% additional tax unless there is a qualifying exception.






Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/important-info-for-people-considering-making-early-withdraws-from-retirement-funds

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Here you'll find items of current interest — new programs, recent guidance or timely reminders.

Tax extension filers don't need to wait until October 17

Taxpayers who requested an extension to file their 2021 tax return don't have to wait until mid-October to file. If a taxpayer has all the necessary information to file an accurate return, they can file electronically at any time before the October deadline and avoid a last-minute rush to file.

Taxpayers who requested more time to file an accurate return have until October 17, 2022. Those who have what they need to file, however, should file as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing their return.

Tax season alerts and planning ahead for 2023

Taxpayers face a number of issues due to critical tax law changes that took place in 2021 and ongoing challenges related to the pandemic. The IRS continues to share updated information for people now filing their 2021 tax returns and those planning for the 2022 return they will file next year, as well as anyone who has previous year tax returns awaiting processing by the IRS.

This special alerts page is designed to help anyone whether they are now preparing their tax return or are awaiting processing of a return or refund and the latest updates on IRS letters, or notices. Newer updates will be placed at the top of this page; the IRS will also provide critical updates through social media.

Coronavirus Tax Relief

For the latest information about coronavirus tax relief, see the Coronavirus Tax Relief and Economic Impact Payments page.

Visit our Coronavirus and Economic Impact Payments: Resources and Guidance page for our latest content including news releases, Tax Tips, frequently asked questions, multilingual partner materials and more.

To learn about IRS operations during COVID-19, visit our operations page for up-to-date status on affected IRS operations and services.










 



Outreach Connection

Get free tax content to share  with your staff, clients, customers or colleagues that you can include in your:


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Taxpayer Bill of Rights

All taxpayers have 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
The Right to Quality Service
The Right to Pay No More than the Correct Amount of Tax
The Right to Challenge the IRS's Position and Be Heard
The Right to Appeal an IRS Decision in an Independent Forum
The Right to Finality
The Right to Privacy
The Right to Confidentiality
The Right to Retain Representation
The Right to a Fair and Just Tax System


Tax Withholding

The IRS encourages taxpayers to perform a quick "paycheck checkup" by using the Withholding Estimator to check if they have the right amount of withholding for their personal situation.

Consumer Alerts on Tax Scams

‪Note that the IRS will never:

Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail you a bill if you owe any taxes.


Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying.
Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe.
Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.


For more information on tax scams, please see Tax Scams/Consumer Alerts. For more information on phishing scams, please see Suspicious emails and Identity Theft.




Source: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/whats-hot

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