AUGUST 2024

Bogus “Self Employment Tax Credit” Scam Warning

Scammers have been spreading false information about a “Self Employment Tax Credit”, claiming that self-employed individuals can receive large IRS refunds. In reality, this credit does not exist. These scammers often charge fees to prepare tax returns but file fraudulent claims for the Credit for Sick and Family Leave, which was only available in 2020 and 2021. Victims of this scam may face IRS penalties, interest charges, and repayment demands. If a tax credit or refund claim sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

JULY 2024

Upcoming Tax Deadlines

July 10: Employees who earned $20+ in tips in June must report them to employers. July 15: Payroll tax and nonpayroll withholding deposits due for June. July 31: Employers must file Form 5500 for employee benefit plans and deposit FUTA tax if over $500. Employers must also file Form 941 for Q2 payroll taxes.

JULY 2024

IRS Impersonation Scams

The IRS warns about scammers impersonating IRS, Social Security, and Medicare representatives via phone, email, text, and social media. Common tactics include fake tax debts, false prize claims, threats of arrest, and urgent payment demands via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. The IRS does not contact taxpayers by email, text, or social media regarding bills or refunds. If unsure about a call or message, hang up and contact the IRS directly at 800-829-1040.

JULY 2024

Summer Home Upgrades and Kids’ Activities May Bring Tax Benefits

Certain home improvements and children’s activities during summer may qualify for tax credits. Energy-efficient home upgrades such as solar water heaters, energy-efficient windows, and AC units may be eligible for clean energy or energy efficiency tax credits. Additionally, parents who pay for summer day camps or childcare may qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit. A tax professional can help determine eligibility for these credits and document expenses properly. Home Energy Credits: IRS Home Energy Tax Credits.

JUNE 2024

Upcoming Tax Deadlines

June 10: Employees who earned $20+ in tips in May must report them to employers. June 17: Estimated tax payments for individuals due (second installment). June 17: U.S. citizens living abroad must file Form 1040 or request an extension until October 15. Corporate estimated tax deposits are also due.

JUNE 2024

Clean Vehicle Credit Dealer Transfers

Since January 1, 2024, buyers or lessees of electric, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), or fuel-cell vehicles eligible for the Clean Vehicle Credit (CVC) may transfer the credit to a dealer to reduce the purchase price or use it as a down payment. Buyers must provide a valid taxpayer ID and sign a certification confirming personal use within the U.S.. Dealers must certify vehicle eligibility and provide documentation. Taxpayers should store these records for their 2024 tax return filing.

JUNE 2024

U.S. Citizens and Residents Must File Tax Returns Even If They Lived Abroad in 2023

U.S. citizens and resident aliens must pay federal tax on worldwide income, including earnings while living abroad. Those eligible for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion or Foreign Tax Credit must still file a tax return to claim these benefits. Expats have until June 17, 2024, to file (an automatic 2-month extension), but any tax owed was due in April, and interest may apply. Additionally, those with foreign bank accounts may need to file an FBAR separately from their tax return.

MAY 24

Upcoming Tax Deadlines

May 10: First-quarter payroll tax filings (Form 941) are due for timely filers. Employees who earned $20+ in tips in April must report them to employers. May 15: Payroll tax and nonpayroll withholding deposits for April are due.

MAY 24

Filing Extensions and Minimizing Penalties

Taxpayers who filed an extension for their 2023 tax return have until October 15, 2024, to submit their return. However, an extension does not extend the time to pay. Any unpaid taxes after April 15 accrue penalties and interest. The IRS advises those unable to pay in full to pay what they can and set up an installment plan. Failure-to-file penalties are 10 times higher than failure-to-pay penalties. IRS Payment Portal: IRS Payments.

MAY 24

Unclaimed 2020 IRS Refunds Deadline

The IRS has reminded taxpayers that the deadline to claim 2020 tax refunds is May 17, 2024. Unclaimed refunds occur when taxpayers do not file returns due to missed paperwork, incorrect addresses, or other issues. If unclaimed by the deadline, refunds become the property of the U.S. Treasury. Those eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Recovery Rebate Credit should file as soon as possible.

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