from www.yahoonews.com
Thu Jul 17, 5:37 PM ET
WASHINGTON - The IRS Criminal Investigation Division completed more than 4,200 investigations in the 2007 budget year, with about one half resulting in conviction for a crime, according to a report issued Thursday.
The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration said the criminal division showed improvement in a number of key areas last year despite a decline in special agents. Those included cases initiated, completed, recommended for prosecution and those concluding in convictions.
The report also noted that investigations referred to the Department of Justice for prosecution stood at an eight-year high, and that for the first time since they began keeping statistics, the division had more investigations awaiting prosecution than open criminal investigations within the division. It said time needed to manage cases being prosecuted cuts into resources available to initiate and complete investigations.
On average, it took 412 days to complete an investigation in 2007.
It said the number of field special agents had declined 3 percent in 2007 to 2,435. "We believe that the continual loss of agents will negatively affect the division's productivity in the near future," said Inspector General J. Russell George.
He also reported that refund returns verified as containing false wage information under the IRS's Questionable Refund Program increased from 84,000 in the 2005 processing year to 211,000 in 2007. The average fraudulent claim in 2007 was $6,479, compared to $3,764 the previous year.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
IRS Sending Stimulus Payment Information to Veterans, Retirees
from www.irs.gov
IR-2008-91, July 21, 2008
Public Service Announcement: It's Not Too Late To Get Your Stimulus Payment
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded qualifying retirees and veterans that it is not too late to file for an economic stimulus payment and announced it will send a second set of information packets to 5.2 million people who may be eligible but who have not yet filed for their stimulus payment.
The packages will contain everything needed by a person who normally does not have a filing requirement but who must file this year in order to receive an economic stimulus payment. There will be instructions, an example Form 1040A return showing the few lines that need to be completed, and a blank Form 1040A. The packages will be mailed over a three-week period starting July 21.
“All it takes is a few simple steps, and the payment can be on its way. It’s not too late to file, but the sooner people file, the faster they’ll receive their money,” said Doug Shulman, IRS Commissioner.
The mailing is part of an IRS summer campaign to reach out to those people who have no requirement to file a tax return but who may be eligible for a stimulus payment of up to $300 ($600 for married filing jointly). For those eligible for a payment for themselves, there also is a $300 per child payment for eligible children younger than 17.
The IRS has accounted for about 75 percent of the approximately 20 million Social Security and Veterans Affairs beneficiaries identified as being potential stimulus recipients. All but 5.2 million of those have either filed a return, filed a joint return or were not eligible for a stimulus payment (for example, they were claimed as a dependent on another’s return).
To reach the remaining recipients, the IRS is working with national partners, members of Congress and state and local officials to ensure that assistance to eligible people is available.
The agency also reminded people that it has more than 400 local Taxpayer Assistance Centers operating normal business hours Monday through Friday. These centers can provide assistance to retirees and veterans trying to receive their payments. A list of addresses and office hours can be found at Contact My Local Office.
The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 provided for payments of up to $600 ($1,200 for married filing jointly) for taxpayers who normally file a tax return and have a tax liability. It provided that stimulus recipients could receive another $300 for each eligible child younger than 17.
The Act also created a special category for people who had certain types of income but may not file a tax return because their income is too low or their income is nontaxable.
People in this category must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income to be eligible for the minimum amount of $300 ($600 married filing jointly). Qualifying income is the total of Social Security, Veterans Affairs and/or Railroad Retirement benefits plus earned income, including nontaxable combat pay
People receiving only Supplemental Security Income are not eligible. Eligible people must have a Social Security number (unless their spouse is a member of the military) and be neither a dependent nor eligible to be a dependent on another’s tax return.
Receiving the stimulus payment should have no impact on other federal benefits currently being received. The stimulus payment is not taxable. Absent any other filing requirements, filing a tax return to receive a stimulus payment does not mean that retirees and others will have to start filing tax returns again.
As of July 11, the IRS had issued 112.4 million payments totaling $91.8 billion. Payments are based on 2007 tax returns being filed this year. People must file by Oct. 15 in order to receive a payment in 2008. Those who do not file a tax return to obtain their stimulus payment this year may still receive their stimulus payments by filing a 2008 tax return next spring, but then their stimulus payment would be based on their 2008 qualifying income.
Related Item:
Stimulus Payments — It's Not Too Late
IR-2008-91, July 21, 2008
Public Service Announcement: It's Not Too Late To Get Your Stimulus Payment
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded qualifying retirees and veterans that it is not too late to file for an economic stimulus payment and announced it will send a second set of information packets to 5.2 million people who may be eligible but who have not yet filed for their stimulus payment.
The packages will contain everything needed by a person who normally does not have a filing requirement but who must file this year in order to receive an economic stimulus payment. There will be instructions, an example Form 1040A return showing the few lines that need to be completed, and a blank Form 1040A. The packages will be mailed over a three-week period starting July 21.
“All it takes is a few simple steps, and the payment can be on its way. It’s not too late to file, but the sooner people file, the faster they’ll receive their money,” said Doug Shulman, IRS Commissioner.
The mailing is part of an IRS summer campaign to reach out to those people who have no requirement to file a tax return but who may be eligible for a stimulus payment of up to $300 ($600 for married filing jointly). For those eligible for a payment for themselves, there also is a $300 per child payment for eligible children younger than 17.
The IRS has accounted for about 75 percent of the approximately 20 million Social Security and Veterans Affairs beneficiaries identified as being potential stimulus recipients. All but 5.2 million of those have either filed a return, filed a joint return or were not eligible for a stimulus payment (for example, they were claimed as a dependent on another’s return).
To reach the remaining recipients, the IRS is working with national partners, members of Congress and state and local officials to ensure that assistance to eligible people is available.
The agency also reminded people that it has more than 400 local Taxpayer Assistance Centers operating normal business hours Monday through Friday. These centers can provide assistance to retirees and veterans trying to receive their payments. A list of addresses and office hours can be found at Contact My Local Office.
The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 provided for payments of up to $600 ($1,200 for married filing jointly) for taxpayers who normally file a tax return and have a tax liability. It provided that stimulus recipients could receive another $300 for each eligible child younger than 17.
The Act also created a special category for people who had certain types of income but may not file a tax return because their income is too low or their income is nontaxable.
People in this category must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income to be eligible for the minimum amount of $300 ($600 married filing jointly). Qualifying income is the total of Social Security, Veterans Affairs and/or Railroad Retirement benefits plus earned income, including nontaxable combat pay
People receiving only Supplemental Security Income are not eligible. Eligible people must have a Social Security number (unless their spouse is a member of the military) and be neither a dependent nor eligible to be a dependent on another’s tax return.
Receiving the stimulus payment should have no impact on other federal benefits currently being received. The stimulus payment is not taxable. Absent any other filing requirements, filing a tax return to receive a stimulus payment does not mean that retirees and others will have to start filing tax returns again.
As of July 11, the IRS had issued 112.4 million payments totaling $91.8 billion. Payments are based on 2007 tax returns being filed this year. People must file by Oct. 15 in order to receive a payment in 2008. Those who do not file a tax return to obtain their stimulus payment this year may still receive their stimulus payments by filing a 2008 tax return next spring, but then their stimulus payment would be based on their 2008 qualifying income.
Related Item:
Stimulus Payments — It's Not Too Late
Friday, April 11, 2008
IRS Offers Last Minute Reminders
from www.irs.gov
IR-2008-59, April 11, 2008
Podcast: Last Minute Reminders
WASHINTON — Now that the April 15 tax return filing and tax payment deadline is nearing, the Internal Revenue Service offers the following last-minute tips for those taxpayers who haven’t yet filed, paid what they owe or taken the necessary steps to ensure they receive the economic stimulus payment they qualify for.
Taxpayers can speed their receipt of their economic stimulus payment by choosing IRS e-file and direct deposit and by filing by the due date. They also can minimize possible interest assessments and late filing or late payment penalties by filing and paying by the due date.
File Electronically
Take advantage of e-filing, which is fast, accurate and easy. Most available tax preparation programs check for errors and necessary information, increasing the accuracy of the return and reducing the need for correspondence with the IRS to clarify errors or omissions. With most programs taxpayers can usually file a state tax return at the same time they electronically file their federal return. Once the return is accepted for processing, the IRS electronically acknowledges receipt of the return. Generally, when someone files electronically, their refund will be issued in about half the time it would take if they had filed a paper return. Those who choose direct deposit will get their refund in even less time and receive their economic stimulus payments sooner as well.
Use IRS Free File
Free electronic filing from nearly 20 companies is available to taxpayers whose 2007 adjusted gross income was $54,000 or less. That means 70 percent of all taxpayers, 95 million filers, can take advantage of the IRS-sponsored Free File program. The only way to access this program is through the IRS’s secure, official Web site, IRS.gov. Free File is also available for individuals who are filing a tax return solely to receive their economic stimulus payment. There is no charge for this service.
Economic Stimulus Payments
Starting in May, the Treasury will begin sending economic stimulus payments to more than 130 million households. To receive a payment, taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 of qualifying income and file a 2007 federal income tax return. The IRS will take care of the rest. Eligible people will receive up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples), and parents will receive an additional $300 for each eligible child younger than 17. Millions of retirees, disabled veterans and low-wage workers who normally do not need to file a tax return must do so this year in order to receive a stimulus payment. People filing only to receive the economic stimulus payment do not have to file by April 15 and they do not have to file a Form 4868 for an extension. These people must file Form 1040A, though, by Oct. 15 to receive the payment in 2008. Taxpayers normally required to file who cannot meet the April 15 deadline should file a Form 4868 to obtain an extension to file until Oct. 15.
Avoid Scams
If you receive unsolicited email or telephone calls from anyone purporting to be from the IRS, it’s probably a scam. Don’t click on any links; don’t answer any questions. Forward the emails or report the calls to phishing@irs.gov.
Earned Income Tax Credit
Earned income of less than $39,783 in 2007 may qualify a taxpayer (married filing jointly with more than one qualifying child) to claim the earned income tax credit. This credit could be worth up to $4,716 (depending on the number of qualified children and level of earned income). When the EITC exceeds the amount of taxes owed, it results in a tax refund to those who claim and qualify for the credit. To qualify, taxpayers must meet certain requirements and file a tax return, even if they did not earn enough money to be obligated to file a tax return. An electronic special “EITC Assistant” is available to help taxpayers determine whether they are eligible. Taxpayers can access more information on this credit by clicking on “1040 Central” on the front page of IRS.gov.
Make Sure Your Paper Return is Error-Free
Those who file a paper return can avoid most potential delays in processing the return and avoid additional correspondence with the IRS to clarify errors should make certain they:
Double-check their figures,
Sign their form,
Attach all required schedules,
Send their return or request an extension by the April 15 filing deadline.
Pay Electronically
Taxpayers who file electronically can e-file and e-pay in a single step by authorizing an electronic funds withdrawal or by credit card. Electronic payment options are convenient, safe and secure methods for paying taxes or user fees. Taxpayers can charge taxes on their American Express, MasterCard, Visa or Discover cards, using an IRS-authorized service provider listed on IRS.gov. The service providers charge a convenience fee based on the amount of tax the taxpayer is paying. Taxpayers should not add the convenience fee to their tax payment. For those who can’t file or pay on time, the IRS provides extensions of time to file and payment plans.
Request an Extension of Time to File
Taxpayers who can't meet the deadline to file their tax return can get an automatic six-month extension of time to file from the IRS, but they must submit the request by April 15. The extension gives taxpayers until Oct. 15 to file the tax return. However, an extension of time to file does not give the taxpayer an extension of time to pay, which must be separately requested. Those who owe taxes can make a payment when they file the extension either by mailing a check made out to the U.S. Department of the Treasury or by several electronic payment methods, such as electronic funds withdrawals from bank accounts and credit card payments. Taxpayers can get an automatic six-month extension of time to file their tax returns by filing Form 4868, Automatic Extension of Time to File. Taxpayers can e-file the extension request from a home computer or through a tax professional who uses e-file. Taxpayers can e-file their extensions at no cost. Several companies offer free e-filing of extensions through the Free File Alliance; these companies are listed on IRS.gov.
Request an Extension of Time to Pay
Based on the circumstances, a taxpayer could qualify for an extension of time to pay. The IRS is willing to allow extensions of time to pay in order to assist in tax debt repayment. However, interest and certain penalties may apply. A taxpayer can request an extension from 30 to 120 days depending on the specific situation. Taxpayers qualifying for an extension of time to pay of 30 to 120 days generally will pay less in penalties and interest than if the debt were repaid through an installment agreement. Taxpayers can request an extension of time to pay using the Online Payment Agreement option available. If you owe tax but cannot pay the full amount, you should pay as much as you can by the April 15 due date in order to minimize any interest and penalty charges.
Apply for an Installment Agreement
The IRS may allow taxpayers to pay any remaining balance in monthly installments through an installment agreement. Taxpayers who owe $25,000 or less may apply for a payment plan electronically, using the Online Payment Agreement application. Alternatively, taxpayers may attach a Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, to the front of his or her tax return. Taxpayers must show the amount of their proposed monthly payment and the date they wish to make their payment each month. The IRS charges a $105 fee for setting up an installment agreement. The fee is reduced to $52 for those who establish a direct debit installment agreement and $43 for those with an income below a certain level (more information is available on Form 13844). Taxpayers are required to pay interest plus a late payment penalty on the unpaid taxes for each month, or part of a month, after the due date that the tax is not paid. A taxpayer who does not file the return by the due date — including extensions — may have to pay a failure-to-file penalty.
For more information about filing and paying taxes, choose “1040 Central” or refer to the Form 1040 instructions or IRS Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax. Taxpayers can download forms and publications from the official IRS Web site, IRS.gov or request a free copy by calling toll free 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).
2008 FILING SEASON STATISTICS
Cumulative through the weeks ending 4/3/07 and 4/4/08
Individual Income Tax Returns
2007
2008
% Change
Total Receipts
88,581,000
96,821,000
9.3%
Total Processed
84,215,000
90,064,000
6.9%
E-filing Receipts:
TOTAL
61,345,000
67,437,000
9.9%
Tax Professionals
44,210,000
47,184,000
6.7%
Self-prepared
17,135,000
20,253,000
18.2%
Web Usage:
Visits to IRS.gov
109,353,000
132,444,000
21.1%
Total Refunds:
Number
73,622,000
75,136,000
2.1%
Amount
$174.165
Billion
$183.043
Billion
5.1%
Average refund
$2,366
$2,436
3.0%
Direct Deposit Refunds:
Number
49,935,000
53,694,000
7.5%
Amount
$136.605
Billion
$147.164
Billion
7.7%
Average refund
$2,736
$2,741
0.2%
Subscribe to IRS Newswire
IR-2008-59, April 11, 2008
Podcast: Last Minute Reminders
WASHINTON — Now that the April 15 tax return filing and tax payment deadline is nearing, the Internal Revenue Service offers the following last-minute tips for those taxpayers who haven’t yet filed, paid what they owe or taken the necessary steps to ensure they receive the economic stimulus payment they qualify for.
Taxpayers can speed their receipt of their economic stimulus payment by choosing IRS e-file and direct deposit and by filing by the due date. They also can minimize possible interest assessments and late filing or late payment penalties by filing and paying by the due date.
File Electronically
Take advantage of e-filing, which is fast, accurate and easy. Most available tax preparation programs check for errors and necessary information, increasing the accuracy of the return and reducing the need for correspondence with the IRS to clarify errors or omissions. With most programs taxpayers can usually file a state tax return at the same time they electronically file their federal return. Once the return is accepted for processing, the IRS electronically acknowledges receipt of the return. Generally, when someone files electronically, their refund will be issued in about half the time it would take if they had filed a paper return. Those who choose direct deposit will get their refund in even less time and receive their economic stimulus payments sooner as well.
Use IRS Free File
Free electronic filing from nearly 20 companies is available to taxpayers whose 2007 adjusted gross income was $54,000 or less. That means 70 percent of all taxpayers, 95 million filers, can take advantage of the IRS-sponsored Free File program. The only way to access this program is through the IRS’s secure, official Web site, IRS.gov. Free File is also available for individuals who are filing a tax return solely to receive their economic stimulus payment. There is no charge for this service.
Economic Stimulus Payments
Starting in May, the Treasury will begin sending economic stimulus payments to more than 130 million households. To receive a payment, taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 of qualifying income and file a 2007 federal income tax return. The IRS will take care of the rest. Eligible people will receive up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples), and parents will receive an additional $300 for each eligible child younger than 17. Millions of retirees, disabled veterans and low-wage workers who normally do not need to file a tax return must do so this year in order to receive a stimulus payment. People filing only to receive the economic stimulus payment do not have to file by April 15 and they do not have to file a Form 4868 for an extension. These people must file Form 1040A, though, by Oct. 15 to receive the payment in 2008. Taxpayers normally required to file who cannot meet the April 15 deadline should file a Form 4868 to obtain an extension to file until Oct. 15.
Avoid Scams
If you receive unsolicited email or telephone calls from anyone purporting to be from the IRS, it’s probably a scam. Don’t click on any links; don’t answer any questions. Forward the emails or report the calls to phishing@irs.gov.
Earned Income Tax Credit
Earned income of less than $39,783 in 2007 may qualify a taxpayer (married filing jointly with more than one qualifying child) to claim the earned income tax credit. This credit could be worth up to $4,716 (depending on the number of qualified children and level of earned income). When the EITC exceeds the amount of taxes owed, it results in a tax refund to those who claim and qualify for the credit. To qualify, taxpayers must meet certain requirements and file a tax return, even if they did not earn enough money to be obligated to file a tax return. An electronic special “EITC Assistant” is available to help taxpayers determine whether they are eligible. Taxpayers can access more information on this credit by clicking on “1040 Central” on the front page of IRS.gov.
Make Sure Your Paper Return is Error-Free
Those who file a paper return can avoid most potential delays in processing the return and avoid additional correspondence with the IRS to clarify errors should make certain they:
Double-check their figures,
Sign their form,
Attach all required schedules,
Send their return or request an extension by the April 15 filing deadline.
Pay Electronically
Taxpayers who file electronically can e-file and e-pay in a single step by authorizing an electronic funds withdrawal or by credit card. Electronic payment options are convenient, safe and secure methods for paying taxes or user fees. Taxpayers can charge taxes on their American Express, MasterCard, Visa or Discover cards, using an IRS-authorized service provider listed on IRS.gov. The service providers charge a convenience fee based on the amount of tax the taxpayer is paying. Taxpayers should not add the convenience fee to their tax payment. For those who can’t file or pay on time, the IRS provides extensions of time to file and payment plans.
Request an Extension of Time to File
Taxpayers who can't meet the deadline to file their tax return can get an automatic six-month extension of time to file from the IRS, but they must submit the request by April 15. The extension gives taxpayers until Oct. 15 to file the tax return. However, an extension of time to file does not give the taxpayer an extension of time to pay, which must be separately requested. Those who owe taxes can make a payment when they file the extension either by mailing a check made out to the U.S. Department of the Treasury or by several electronic payment methods, such as electronic funds withdrawals from bank accounts and credit card payments. Taxpayers can get an automatic six-month extension of time to file their tax returns by filing Form 4868, Automatic Extension of Time to File. Taxpayers can e-file the extension request from a home computer or through a tax professional who uses e-file. Taxpayers can e-file their extensions at no cost. Several companies offer free e-filing of extensions through the Free File Alliance; these companies are listed on IRS.gov.
Request an Extension of Time to Pay
Based on the circumstances, a taxpayer could qualify for an extension of time to pay. The IRS is willing to allow extensions of time to pay in order to assist in tax debt repayment. However, interest and certain penalties may apply. A taxpayer can request an extension from 30 to 120 days depending on the specific situation. Taxpayers qualifying for an extension of time to pay of 30 to 120 days generally will pay less in penalties and interest than if the debt were repaid through an installment agreement. Taxpayers can request an extension of time to pay using the Online Payment Agreement option available. If you owe tax but cannot pay the full amount, you should pay as much as you can by the April 15 due date in order to minimize any interest and penalty charges.
Apply for an Installment Agreement
The IRS may allow taxpayers to pay any remaining balance in monthly installments through an installment agreement. Taxpayers who owe $25,000 or less may apply for a payment plan electronically, using the Online Payment Agreement application. Alternatively, taxpayers may attach a Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, to the front of his or her tax return. Taxpayers must show the amount of their proposed monthly payment and the date they wish to make their payment each month. The IRS charges a $105 fee for setting up an installment agreement. The fee is reduced to $52 for those who establish a direct debit installment agreement and $43 for those with an income below a certain level (more information is available on Form 13844). Taxpayers are required to pay interest plus a late payment penalty on the unpaid taxes for each month, or part of a month, after the due date that the tax is not paid. A taxpayer who does not file the return by the due date — including extensions — may have to pay a failure-to-file penalty.
For more information about filing and paying taxes, choose “1040 Central” or refer to the Form 1040 instructions or IRS Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax. Taxpayers can download forms and publications from the official IRS Web site, IRS.gov or request a free copy by calling toll free 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).
2008 FILING SEASON STATISTICS
Cumulative through the weeks ending 4/3/07 and 4/4/08
Individual Income Tax Returns
2007
2008
% Change
Total Receipts
88,581,000
96,821,000
9.3%
Total Processed
84,215,000
90,064,000
6.9%
E-filing Receipts:
TOTAL
61,345,000
67,437,000
9.9%
Tax Professionals
44,210,000
47,184,000
6.7%
Self-prepared
17,135,000
20,253,000
18.2%
Web Usage:
Visits to IRS.gov
109,353,000
132,444,000
21.1%
Total Refunds:
Number
73,622,000
75,136,000
2.1%
Amount
$174.165
Billion
$183.043
Billion
5.1%
Average refund
$2,366
$2,436
3.0%
Direct Deposit Refunds:
Number
49,935,000
53,694,000
7.5%
Amount
$136.605
Billion
$147.164
Billion
7.7%
Average refund
$2,736
$2,741
0.2%
Subscribe to IRS Newswire
Friday, February 22, 2008
Orginizing your Quarterly Tax Payments
from www.banks.com
By Chris Bibey February 20th, 2008
If you are self- employed, you need to pay income tax just like everybody else. The best way to do this is to send quarterly payments on both the federal and state level. By doing this, you will keep up with the rest of the tax payers who have this money deducted from their paycheck each month.
Staying organized is essential if you are going to pay your quarterly tax payments on time. Once you get used to paying these taxes it will more or less become a part of your business. But even then, you always need to be organized.
The amount of quarterly taxes that you pay is based on the income that you earn during that particular period. For this reason, it is essential that you keep close track of every dollar that you earn. This will allow you to know just how much money you are supposed to pay. Remember, if you do not pay each quarter you will have to pay at the end of the year. The bottom line is that paying quarterly taxes is a way of life for self-employed workers.
To set up quarterly payments for the first time, visit a tax professional or certified public accountant. They can give you the proper forms, as well as tips on what percentage of your income to pay, etc. After your first year of filing, you will begin to receive the proper paperwork in the mail for paying federal and state income tax.
All in all, staying organized will make it much easier for you to pay your quarterly taxes with success. As you can imagine, this is not something that you want to get behind on.
By Chris Bibey February 20th, 2008
If you are self- employed, you need to pay income tax just like everybody else. The best way to do this is to send quarterly payments on both the federal and state level. By doing this, you will keep up with the rest of the tax payers who have this money deducted from their paycheck each month.
Staying organized is essential if you are going to pay your quarterly tax payments on time. Once you get used to paying these taxes it will more or less become a part of your business. But even then, you always need to be organized.
The amount of quarterly taxes that you pay is based on the income that you earn during that particular period. For this reason, it is essential that you keep close track of every dollar that you earn. This will allow you to know just how much money you are supposed to pay. Remember, if you do not pay each quarter you will have to pay at the end of the year. The bottom line is that paying quarterly taxes is a way of life for self-employed workers.
To set up quarterly payments for the first time, visit a tax professional or certified public accountant. They can give you the proper forms, as well as tips on what percentage of your income to pay, etc. After your first year of filing, you will begin to receive the proper paperwork in the mail for paying federal and state income tax.
All in all, staying organized will make it much easier for you to pay your quarterly taxes with success. As you can imagine, this is not something that you want to get behind on.
2008 Economic Stimulus Act Provides Tax Benefits to Businesses
from www.irs.gov
2008 Economic Stimulus Act Provides Tax Benefits to Businesses
IR-2008-22, Feb. 21, 2008
WASHINGTON — In addition to providing stimulus payments to individuals, the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 provides incentives to businesses. These incentives include a special 50-percent depreciation allowance for 2008 purchases and an increase in the small business expensing limitation for tax years beginning in 2008.
50-Percent Special Depreciation Allowance
Depreciation is an income tax deduction that allows a taxpayer to recover the cost or other basis of certain property over several years. It is an annual allowance for the wear and tear, deterioration or obsolescence of the property.
Under the new law, a taxpayer is entitled to depreciate 50 percent of the adjusted basis of certain qualified property during the year that the property is placed in service. This is similar to the special depreciation allowance was previously available for certain property placed in service generally before Jan. 1, 2005, often referred to as “bonus depreciation.” To qualify for the 50 percent special depreciation allowance under the new law, the property must be placed in service after Dec. 31, 2007, but generally before Jan. 1, 2009.
To reflect the new 50-percent special depreciation allowance, the IRS is developing a new version of the depreciation and amortization form for fiscal year filers. The new form will be designated as the 2007 Form 4562-FY.
Section 179 Expensing
In general, a qualifying taxpayer can elect to treat the cost of certain property as an expense and deduct it in the year the property is placed in service instead of depreciating it over several years. This property is frequently referred to as section 179 property, after the relevant section in the Internal Revenue Code.
Under the new law, a qualifying business can expense up to $250,000 of section 179 property purchased by the taxpayer in a tax year beginning in 2008. Absent this legislation, the 2008 expensing limit for section 179 property would have been $128,000. The $250,000 amount provided under the new law is reduced if the cost of all section 179 property placed in service by the taxpayer during the tax year exceeds $800,000.
The new law does not alter the section 179 limitation imposed on sport utility vehicles, which have an expense limit of $25,000.
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2008 Economic Stimulus Act Provides Tax Benefits to Businesses
IR-2008-22, Feb. 21, 2008
WASHINGTON — In addition to providing stimulus payments to individuals, the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 provides incentives to businesses. These incentives include a special 50-percent depreciation allowance for 2008 purchases and an increase in the small business expensing limitation for tax years beginning in 2008.
50-Percent Special Depreciation Allowance
Depreciation is an income tax deduction that allows a taxpayer to recover the cost or other basis of certain property over several years. It is an annual allowance for the wear and tear, deterioration or obsolescence of the property.
Under the new law, a taxpayer is entitled to depreciate 50 percent of the adjusted basis of certain qualified property during the year that the property is placed in service. This is similar to the special depreciation allowance was previously available for certain property placed in service generally before Jan. 1, 2005, often referred to as “bonus depreciation.” To qualify for the 50 percent special depreciation allowance under the new law, the property must be placed in service after Dec. 31, 2007, but generally before Jan. 1, 2009.
To reflect the new 50-percent special depreciation allowance, the IRS is developing a new version of the depreciation and amortization form for fiscal year filers. The new form will be designated as the 2007 Form 4562-FY.
Section 179 Expensing
In general, a qualifying taxpayer can elect to treat the cost of certain property as an expense and deduct it in the year the property is placed in service instead of depreciating it over several years. This property is frequently referred to as section 179 property, after the relevant section in the Internal Revenue Code.
Under the new law, a qualifying business can expense up to $250,000 of section 179 property purchased by the taxpayer in a tax year beginning in 2008. Absent this legislation, the 2008 expensing limit for section 179 property would have been $128,000. The $250,000 amount provided under the new law is reduced if the cost of all section 179 property placed in service by the taxpayer during the tax year exceeds $800,000.
The new law does not alter the section 179 limitation imposed on sport utility vehicles, which have an expense limit of $25,000.
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Saturday, February 16, 2008
IRS Will Send Stimulus Payments Automatically
from www.irs.gov
IRS Will Send Stimulus Payments Automatically Starting in May; Eligible Taxpayers Must File a 2007 Tax Return to Receive Rebate
IR-2008-18, Feb. 13, 2008
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today advised taxpayers that in most cases they will not have to do anything extra this year to get the economic stimulus payments beginning in May.
“If you are eligible for a payment, all you have to do is file a 2007 tax return and the IRS will do the rest,” said Acting IRS Commissioner Linda Stiff.
The IRS will use information on the 2007 tax return filed by the taxpayer to determine eligibility and calculate the amount of the stimulus payments.
The IRS will begin sending taxpayers their payments in early May after the current tax season concludes. Payments to more than 130 million taxpayers will continue over several weeks during the spring and summer. A payment schedule for taxpayers will be announced in the near future.
Stimulus payments will be direct deposited for taxpayers selecting that option when filing their 2007 tax returns. Taxpayers who have already filed with direct deposit won't need to do anything else to receive the stimulus payment. For taxpayers who haven't filed their 2007 returns yet, the IRS reminds them that direct deposit is the fastest way to get both regular refunds and stimulus payments.
Most taxpayers just need to file a 2007 tax return as usual. No other action, extra form or call is necessary. This Web site will be the best information source for all updates and taxpayer questions.
In most cases, the payment will equal the amount of tax liability on the tax return, with a maximum amount of $600 for individuals ($1,200 for taxpayers who file a joint return).
The law also allows for payments for select taxpayers who have no tax liability, such as low-income workers or those who receive Social Security benefits or veterans’ disability compensation, pension or survivors’ benefits received from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2007. These taxpayers will be eligible to receive a payment of $300 ($600 on a joint return) if they had at least $3,000 of qualifying income.
Qualifying income includes Social Security benefits, certain Railroad Retirement benefits, certain veterans’ benefits and earned income, such as income from wages, salaries, tips and self-employment. While these people may not be normally required to file a tax return because they do not meet the filing requirement, the IRS emphasizes they must file a 2007 return in order to receive a payment.
Recipients of Social Security, certain Railroad Retirement and certain veterans’ benefits should report their 2007 benefits on Line 14a of Form 1040A or Line 20a of Form 1040. Taxpayers who already have filed but failed to report these benefits can file an amended return by using Form 1040X. The IRS is working with the Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure that recipients are aware of this issue.
“Some people receiving Social Security and veterans’ benefits may not realize they will need to file a tax return to get the stimulus payment,” Stiff said. “To reach these people, the IRS and Treasury will work closely with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Social Security Administration and key beneficiary groups on outreach efforts.”
Eligible taxpayers who qualify for a payment will receive an additional $300 for each child who qualifies for the child tax credit.
Payments to higher income taxpayers will be reduced by 5 percent of the amount of adjusted gross income above $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for those filing jointly.
Taxpayers must have valid Social Security Numbers to qualify for the stimulus payment. If married filing jointly, both taxpayers must have a valid Social Security Number. And, children must have valid Social Security Numbers to be eligible as qualifying children.
Taxpayers who file their tax returns using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number issued by the IRS or any number issued by the IRS are ineligible. Also ineligible are individuals who can be claimed as dependents on someone else’s return, or taxpayers who file Form 1040-NR, 1040-PR or 1040-SS.
To accommodate taxpayers who file tax returns later in the year, the IRS will continue sending payments until December 31, 2008. The IRS also cautions taxpayers that if they file their 2007 tax return and then move their residence that they should file a change of address card with the U.S. Postal Service.
The IRS will mail two informational notices to taxpayers advising them of the stimulus payments. However, taxpayers should be alert for tax rebate scams such as telephone calls or e-mails claiming to be from the IRS and asking for sensitive financial information. The IRS will not call or e-mail taxpayers about these payments nor will it ask for financial information. Scam e-mails and information about scam calls should be forwarded to phishing@irs.gov.Related Items:
FS-2008-15, Facts about the 2008 Stimulus Payments
FS-2008-16, Stimulus Payments: Instructions for Low-Income Workers and Recipients of Social Security and Certain Veterans’ Benefits
IRS Will Send Stimulus Payments Automatically Starting in May; Eligible Taxpayers Must File a 2007 Tax Return to Receive Rebate
IR-2008-18, Feb. 13, 2008
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today advised taxpayers that in most cases they will not have to do anything extra this year to get the economic stimulus payments beginning in May.
“If you are eligible for a payment, all you have to do is file a 2007 tax return and the IRS will do the rest,” said Acting IRS Commissioner Linda Stiff.
The IRS will use information on the 2007 tax return filed by the taxpayer to determine eligibility and calculate the amount of the stimulus payments.
The IRS will begin sending taxpayers their payments in early May after the current tax season concludes. Payments to more than 130 million taxpayers will continue over several weeks during the spring and summer. A payment schedule for taxpayers will be announced in the near future.
Stimulus payments will be direct deposited for taxpayers selecting that option when filing their 2007 tax returns. Taxpayers who have already filed with direct deposit won't need to do anything else to receive the stimulus payment. For taxpayers who haven't filed their 2007 returns yet, the IRS reminds them that direct deposit is the fastest way to get both regular refunds and stimulus payments.
Most taxpayers just need to file a 2007 tax return as usual. No other action, extra form or call is necessary. This Web site will be the best information source for all updates and taxpayer questions.
In most cases, the payment will equal the amount of tax liability on the tax return, with a maximum amount of $600 for individuals ($1,200 for taxpayers who file a joint return).
The law also allows for payments for select taxpayers who have no tax liability, such as low-income workers or those who receive Social Security benefits or veterans’ disability compensation, pension or survivors’ benefits received from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2007. These taxpayers will be eligible to receive a payment of $300 ($600 on a joint return) if they had at least $3,000 of qualifying income.
Qualifying income includes Social Security benefits, certain Railroad Retirement benefits, certain veterans’ benefits and earned income, such as income from wages, salaries, tips and self-employment. While these people may not be normally required to file a tax return because they do not meet the filing requirement, the IRS emphasizes they must file a 2007 return in order to receive a payment.
Recipients of Social Security, certain Railroad Retirement and certain veterans’ benefits should report their 2007 benefits on Line 14a of Form 1040A or Line 20a of Form 1040. Taxpayers who already have filed but failed to report these benefits can file an amended return by using Form 1040X. The IRS is working with the Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure that recipients are aware of this issue.
“Some people receiving Social Security and veterans’ benefits may not realize they will need to file a tax return to get the stimulus payment,” Stiff said. “To reach these people, the IRS and Treasury will work closely with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Social Security Administration and key beneficiary groups on outreach efforts.”
Eligible taxpayers who qualify for a payment will receive an additional $300 for each child who qualifies for the child tax credit.
Payments to higher income taxpayers will be reduced by 5 percent of the amount of adjusted gross income above $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for those filing jointly.
Taxpayers must have valid Social Security Numbers to qualify for the stimulus payment. If married filing jointly, both taxpayers must have a valid Social Security Number. And, children must have valid Social Security Numbers to be eligible as qualifying children.
Taxpayers who file their tax returns using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number issued by the IRS or any number issued by the IRS are ineligible. Also ineligible are individuals who can be claimed as dependents on someone else’s return, or taxpayers who file Form 1040-NR, 1040-PR or 1040-SS.
To accommodate taxpayers who file tax returns later in the year, the IRS will continue sending payments until December 31, 2008. The IRS also cautions taxpayers that if they file their 2007 tax return and then move their residence that they should file a change of address card with the U.S. Postal Service.
The IRS will mail two informational notices to taxpayers advising them of the stimulus payments. However, taxpayers should be alert for tax rebate scams such as telephone calls or e-mails claiming to be from the IRS and asking for sensitive financial information. The IRS will not call or e-mail taxpayers about these payments nor will it ask for financial information. Scam e-mails and information about scam calls should be forwarded to phishing@irs.gov.Related Items:
FS-2008-15, Facts about the 2008 Stimulus Payments
FS-2008-16, Stimulus Payments: Instructions for Low-Income Workers and Recipients of Social Security and Certain Veterans’ Benefits
Saturday, February 2, 2008
IRS warns of rebate scams
from CNNMoney.com
Identity thieves use economic stimulus plan to steal personal information over the phone, Internet.
January 31 2008: 8:16 AM EST
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Even before Congress passes an economic stimulus package, identity thieves are using promises of tax rebates to trick people into revealing financial and personal data, the Internal Revenue Service warned Wednesday.
Under one scheme, the IRS said, people are receiving phone calls telling them they can only receive a rebate if they provide bank account information for a direct deposit.
The tax agency stressed that it does not collect information by telephone and that no legislation has been enacted that would allow it to provide advance payments to taxpayers or that specifies the details of those payments.
The House last week, as part of an economic stimulus package, approved tax rebates of $600 and $1,200 respectively for most individuals and couples, with another $300 per child. The Senate is now considering a slightly different version.
The IRS also repeated past warnings of e-mails, supposedly coming from the agency, where people are asked to enter personal information on a form needed to obtain a tax refund.
Don't spend your rebate just yet
A new scam, it said, involves an e-mail notification that a person's tax return will be audited with instructions to click on links to complete forms with personal and account information.
Businesses and accountants are also getting e-mails with instructions to download information on tax law changes. Clicking on these links could download "malware" onto the recipient's computer that gives the scammer remote access to the computer hard drive.
In another telephone scam, a caller claims to be an IRS employee who says the taxpayer has not cashed a refund check and asks the person to verify his or her bank account number.
On Tuesday, at a Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing for Douglas Shulman, the nominee to be IRS commissioner, Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., expressed concern that taxpayers would be victimized by tax prepares and lenders who charge high interest rates for short-term advances on their stimulus rebates.
The IRS advised people not to click on any link from an e-mail purporting to come from the tax agency. People receiving questionable e-mails can contact the IRS through phishing@irs.gov.
Senate Democrats: Add checks for seniors
Identity thieves use economic stimulus plan to steal personal information over the phone, Internet.
January 31 2008: 8:16 AM EST
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Even before Congress passes an economic stimulus package, identity thieves are using promises of tax rebates to trick people into revealing financial and personal data, the Internal Revenue Service warned Wednesday.
Under one scheme, the IRS said, people are receiving phone calls telling them they can only receive a rebate if they provide bank account information for a direct deposit.
The tax agency stressed that it does not collect information by telephone and that no legislation has been enacted that would allow it to provide advance payments to taxpayers or that specifies the details of those payments.
The House last week, as part of an economic stimulus package, approved tax rebates of $600 and $1,200 respectively for most individuals and couples, with another $300 per child. The Senate is now considering a slightly different version.
The IRS also repeated past warnings of e-mails, supposedly coming from the agency, where people are asked to enter personal information on a form needed to obtain a tax refund.
Don't spend your rebate just yet
A new scam, it said, involves an e-mail notification that a person's tax return will be audited with instructions to click on links to complete forms with personal and account information.
Businesses and accountants are also getting e-mails with instructions to download information on tax law changes. Clicking on these links could download "malware" onto the recipient's computer that gives the scammer remote access to the computer hard drive.
In another telephone scam, a caller claims to be an IRS employee who says the taxpayer has not cashed a refund check and asks the person to verify his or her bank account number.
On Tuesday, at a Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing for Douglas Shulman, the nominee to be IRS commissioner, Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., expressed concern that taxpayers would be victimized by tax prepares and lenders who charge high interest rates for short-term advances on their stimulus rebates.
The IRS advised people not to click on any link from an e-mail purporting to come from the tax agency. People receiving questionable e-mails can contact the IRS through phishing@irs.gov.
Senate Democrats: Add checks for seniors
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