Category Archives: Tax Advice

Tax Advisor: Understanding Tax Implications of Remote Work


Remote work, since the pandemic, has transformed the traditional office landscape. Thanks to technology, employees can now work from anywhere, blurring the lines between home and office. This new flexibility offers many benefits, but it also raises important questions about the tax implications of remote work. 

As remote work becomes more commonplace, both employees and employers need to understand the tax rules that apply to this evolving work arrangement. Here are some tax implications for you and your tax advisor to keep in mind:  

  1. State Income Tax Considerations. If you live and work in D.C., Northern Virginia, or Maryland, you may be subject to taxes in both locations. *** Here’s how it works:
  • Tax Home vs. Work Location: Your “tax home” is typically where you live, while your “work location” is where your employer’s office is located. If they are in the same state, there’s usually no issue. However, if you’re working remotely from a different state, you may need to file income tax returns in both states.
  • Reciprocity Agreements: Some neighboring states have reciprocity agreements that allow residents of one state to work in another without paying income tax to the work state. These agreements can simplify the tax situation for remote workers.
  1. Tracking remote work days. For tax purposes, it’s essential to keep accurate records of where you work. The number of days you work in different states can impact your tax liability. Some states have a “day counting” rule that triggers tax obligations if you work there for a certain number of days within a tax year.
  2. Deductions for home office expenses. The tax implications of remote work also extend to home office deductions. For tax year 2013, the IRS introduced a simplified home office deduction method, allowing eligible taxpayers to deduct $5 per square foot of their home office space, up to a maximum of 300 square feet. For those who qualify, this deduction can help offset some of the costs associated with remote work, such as internet, utilities, and office supplies. However, to be eligible, your home office must be used exclusively for work purposes, and you must meet specific criteria outlined by the IRS.
  3. State sales tax obligations. If you’re running a remote business from your home, you may also have to consider state sales tax obligations. Many states require businesses to collect and remit sales tax on sales made to customers within the state. If you’re conducting sales remotely, you’ll need to navigate the rules and regulations regarding sales tax in both your home state and any other state where you have customers.
  4. Employer considerations. Employers also face tax-related challenges with remote work arrangements. They must determine their tax obligations in the states where remote employees reside and work. Additionally, they may need to address payroll tax issues, unemployment insurance, and compliance with various state labor laws.
  5. Impact on tax credits and deductions. Remote work can affect eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions. For example, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCC) depend on factors like income and work-related expenses, which may change when working remotely. Similarly, retirement account contributions and deductions may be impacted by changes in income and work arrangements. 
  6. Seek professional guidance from a tax advisor. Navigating the tax implications of remote work can be complex, especially if you work in multiple states or have specific deductions and credits in mind. To ensure compliance and optimize your tax situation, seek the assistance of a qualified tax advisor

Remote work offers flexibility and convenience, but it also brings tax considerations. Understanding the tax implications of remote work is essential for employees and employers to avoid surprises come tax season. 

A.K. Burton, PC, has experienced accountants who can help you do your tax preparation and remote work. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation.

We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area. 

*** For more information on marriage and taxes, visit the Tax News website

Tax Planning: How to Do Estimated Tax Payments


Tax planning is an essential aspect of managing your personal or business finances. 

One key element of tax planning is ensuring that you meet your tax obligations throughout the year. For individuals and businesses that don’t have taxes withheld from their income, estimated tax payments are important to staying compliant with the tax laws. 

Here are five ways to make your estimated tax payments.

  1. Determine if you need to make estimated tax payments. Individuals and businesses that expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes after subtracting any withholding and refundable credits can make estimated tax payments. This applies to self-employed individuals, freelancers, independent contractors, and business owners whose income is not subject to withholding.
  2. Calculate your estimated tax liability. Estimate your income and deductions for the current tax year. Consider factors such as self-employment income, investment income, and any other sources of taxable income. Deductible expenses and credits should also be taken into account. You can use last year’s tax return as a starting point and adjust for any significant changes.
  3. Determine a payment schedule. For most individuals, estimated tax payments are due quarterly. The payment due dates are typically April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. However, if any of these dates fall on a weekend or a holiday, the deadline is shifted to the next business day.
  4. Calculate each payment. Divide your estimated tax liability by the number of payment periods to calculate the amount of each estimated tax payment. For example, if you have four payment periods, divide your estimated tax liability by four to determine the amount for each payment. It’s important to note that estimated tax payments are based on a pay-as-you-go system, so it’s ideal to make equal payments throughout the year to avoid penalties and interest.
  5. Submit your payment. The most convenient method is to make an electronic payment through the IRS Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS). *** This allows you to make secure online payments directly from your bank account. You can also pay by phone using the EFTPS Voice Response System or by mail using Form 1040-ES and a check or money order payable to the United States Treasury. Be sure to include the payment voucher from Form 1040-ES with your payment.
  6. Keep track of your payments. Maintain a record of the dates, amounts, and payment methods used for each payment. This documentation will be useful when filing your annual tax return, as you will need to report your estimated tax payments accurately.
  7. Review and adjust as needed. Regularly review your estimated tax payments and reassess your tax situation. If your income or deductions change significantly, you may need to adjust your estimated tax payments accordingly. It’s better to make adjustments as you go rather than underpaying and potentially incurring penalties at the end of the year.

Estimated tax payments are an important aspect of tax planning for individuals and businesses with income not subject to withholding. By following these steps, you can make your estimated tax payments on time to avoid penalties. Consider consulting a tax preparer or utilizing tax software to ensure accuracy and to receive guidance tailored to your specific tax situation.

A.K. Burton, PC, has been working with the IRS for our clients for many years. Our firm has experienced accountants who can help you do your tax planning and file your tax returns and represent you to the IRS. We do individual and business tax returns. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation.

We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area.

*** For more information on making estimated tax payments, visit the EFTPS page on the IRS website

Tax Planning: What You Need to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Tax Bill

Everyone who likes to file their tax returns, raise your hand! That’s what we thought. 

Filing taxes is massively stressful even if you have prepared. It’s even worse if you are unable to pay your tax bill. Know that you’re not alone, and there are tax planning strategies you can take now if you cannot pay the tax balance that is due.  

The following are practical tax planning strategies when you can’t pay your tax bill:

  1. File your tax return on time. Even if you cannot pay it all, file your tax return by the deadline. Failing to file can result in penalties and additional fees, which will only add to your financial burden. Filing on time means that you avoid complications and show your willingness to fulfill your tax obligations.
  2. Review your tax bill. Carefully review your tax bill. Make sure it’s accurate. Mistakes happen. Regardless, make sure you file as you don’t want to pay more than you owe. Double-check all calculations and cross-reference the information provided with your records. If you see discrepancies, contact the IRS or state tax authorities promptly to resolve the issue.
  3. Explore payment options. The IRS and your state’s tax authorities know that  everyone cannot pay their tax bill in full immediately. So, they offer several payment options to accommodate different financial situations. Those options include:
    a. Installment Agreement: You can request an installment agreement that allows you to pay your tax debt in monthly installments. The IRS or your state tax agency will work with you to determine a reasonable payment plan based on your income and expenses.
    b. Offer in Compromise: You may be eligible for a compromise offer that allows you to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed. This option is only available if you can prove that paying the full amount would cause significant financial hardship.
    c. Temporarily Delay Payment: If you’re experiencing a temporary financial hardship, you may be able to request a temporary delay in payment until your situation improves. During this time, penalties and interest will continue to accrue, but it can provide you with some breathing room to get back on your feet.
  4. Communicate with the Tax Authorities: Start communication with the tax authorities is vital when you’re unable to pay your tax bill. Contact the appropriate agency as soon as possible to discuss your situation and explore available options. Ignoring the issue will only lead to more severe consequences, such as liens or wage garnishments. 
  5. Consult a Tax Professional: Navigating the complex world of taxes can be challenging, especially when you’re facing financial difficulties. Seeking guidance from a qualified tax professional, such as a tax attorney or a certified public accountant (CPA), can provide you with valuable insights and help you make informed decisions. They can analyze your situation, explore all possible options, and negotiate on your behalf with the tax authorities.
  6. Adjust Withholdings: If you are unable to pay your tax bill this year, review your withholdings and adjust them. By increasing your withholdings, you’re paying a more accurate amount throughout the year, reducing a significant tax bill next time. Consult with a tax preparation professional to determine the optimal withholding amount based on your financial circumstances.

If you are unable to pay your tax bill it can be overwhelming, but you can take steps to resolve it. By filing your tax return on time, reviewing your bill for accuracy, exploring payment options, communicating with tax authorities, seeking professional guidance, and adjusting your withholdings, you can navigate this challenging scenario. We recommend hiring an accountant or a tax professional to help you with your tax returns or to represent you to the IRS or state tax department.

A.K. Burton, PC, has been working with the IRS for our clients for many years. Our firm has experienced accountants who can help you do your tax planning and file your tax returns and represent you to the IRS. We do individual and business tax returns. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation.

We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area.

*** You can find out about tax payments and other tax information on the IRS website.

Why is My Tax Refund Smaller This Year?


If you have been getting the same refund on your tax return every year for many years, this year may be a major disappointment for you.

Tax refunds will be smaller this year for millions of Americans. It’s sad but true. We have to return to the Covid pandemic in 2021 when the federal government gave out stimulus checks. While Americans were getting $1,500 per household member, Congress was working behind the scenes to rewrite the US Tax Code and eliminate many deductions.

But, as with everything else tax-related, it can be complicated. Let’s look at several reasons why your tax refund check may be smaller this year.

  1. The American Rescue Plan passed at the start of the pandemic in March 2021, gave some financial relief to millions of families. It increased the 2021 child tax credit from $2,000 to $3,000 per child, 17 years old and younger. It also added $600 for children under six years old. Because of this, many Americans will not like the smaller check they receive this year. These child tax credits may reduce an individual’s refund. They may have received too much of an advance credit and do not qualify when filing their tax return making their refund much smaller than in 2021.
  2. Unemployment assistance. In 2020, the federal government waived federal taxes on all unemployment income. For the 2021 tax year, however, that is no longer the case. Unemployment assistance during 2021 is categorized as taxable income. Millions of Americans were still collecting unemployment benefits into 2022. Because of this benefit, many will see lower refunds this year. When someone receives unemployment assistance, they can have their taxes withheld. Many millions of recipients did not have any money withheld; thus, they have to pay those taxes back making their tax refund much smaller. To claim unemployment income on a tax return, they would have received a 1099-G form from the state or District unemployment agency. This form has instructions on how to complete this form.
  3. Student loan debt. As the pandemic lockdown went into effect, the U.S. Department of Education froze public student loan payments and temporarily stopped interest from accruing on student loans. It may have helped many students struggling to pay their loans. However, the $2,500 above-the-line deduction was worthless during the freeze. That means that now they have more taxable income, so their tax refund (if any) will be much lower.

So, when filing your 2022 tax returns this year, your deductions may be complicated and potentially incorrect, meaning you may pay even more or less than you should. We would advise that you hire a professional tax advisor or accountant for your tax preparation so that you can maximize your refund. You may also consult the IRS website for more information on a tax refund schedule. ***

A.K. Burton, PC, has been working with the IRS for our clients for many years. Our firm has experienced accountants who can help you file your tax returns and represent you to the IRS. We do individual and business tax returns. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation.

We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area.

*** Visit the IRS website for more information about tax refunds.

Tax Preparation: 2022 Laws That May Affect Your Tax Returns

Every year brings a panoply of new tax laws, passed by the United States Congress. Some of these laws are easy to implement. However, some other new tax laws can be complicated. In any case, it can make tax preparation for most people even more difficult as most people don’t keep track of the laws.  

Accountants spend many hours studying the latest tax laws. We even attend webinars and conventions to learn more about these laws. It’s always a challenge! Some new tax laws make us scratch our heads while others seem to be commonsensical.  

Here are several notable new tax laws to keep in mind when doing your tax preparation: 

  1. Charitable Tax Credit increase. The America Rescue Plan deduction returns to the nonrefundable status of $2,000 per qualifying child and is limited to dependents under the age of 16.
  2. More charitable deduction changes. During COVID-19, taxpayers could take an above-the-line charitable donation tax deduction, meaning they are claiming the standard deduction and an additional deduction for a charitable donation. Single filers may deduct up to $300. Married couples filing jointly may deduct up to $600. 
  3. New reporting requirement for third-party settlement organizations. This deals with Paypal, Venmo, Cash App, and other third-party payment companies. TPSOs were required to file a Form 1099-K if customers processed 200 or more transactions and received a minimum of $20,000 or more in payments. This law deletes the transaction requirement and requires Form 1099-K for any account holder who receives at least $600 in payments for goods and services. Recently, the IRS delayed implementing the new law until 2023. Though not mandatory for 2022, you may get a Form 1099-K as these third-party payment companies prepare for the upcoming change.
  4. Child and Dependent Care Credit Decrease. These are deductions for qualified childcare services so that you can work, you can receive a childcare credit for some or all expenses. The IRS did reduce the child and dependent care credit cap in 2022. It decreased from a maximum of $8,000 in 2021 to a maximum of $2,100 in 2022. 
  5. Employer-sponsored retirement contributions increased. The contribution limit for elective deferrals to 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the Thrift Savings Plan increased to $20,500 for 2022. The total amount that can be contributed to a plan by you and your employer combined increased to $61,500. The catch-up contribution for taxpayers aged 50 and older stayed at $6,500.
  6. Clean Vehicle Credit eligibility change. If you bought a new electric vehicle after August 16, 2022, it had to have had a final assembly in North America to get the $7,500 credit. This requirement was added as part of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2021.

Some of these tax law changes may affect your tax preparation for your 2022 tax returns. If you have questions, you can consult the IRS. We highly recommend that you consult your tax advisor or accountant for your tax preparation and filing.

A.K. Burton, PC, has been working with the IRS for our clients for many years. Our firm has experienced accountants who can help you get the ball rolling with year-end tax planning for your small business. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation.

We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area.

*** For more information on IRS Tax Brackets visits the Tax Foundation website.  

Tax Preparation: Estimated Tax Payments Due and 990 Extended Deadlines


If you were granted a tax filing extension and want to pay more than you need to…this blog is not for you. For anyone else, who was granted an extension, this post will help you to avoid the failure to file a penalty and also guide you on everything you need to make your tax filing go as smoothly as possible.

The extended individual tax filing deadline is October 15. If you have not filed your 2021 taxes yet, you have less than a month to complete this task or risk facing steep penalties.

The fine for missing the deadline is known as the failure to file a penalty. This penalty equals 5% every month you don’t file up to 25% of what you owe.

To put this in perspective, if you owe $10,000 in taxes, and fail to file on time, you’ll owe an extra $500 a month up to $2500. In many places, $2500 is a month or two of rent.

The best way to avoid this penalty is to meet with a tax preparer as soon as possible. When you do meet with your tax preparer, here’s what you should bring to be prepared:

Forms of identification including

  • Photo ID
  • Social Security Cards
  • TIN assignment letters for you, your spouse, and dependents (if applicable)
  • Bank account information if receiving direct deposit for return (voided check can also work)
  • Last 2 years of tax returns

Income documents including

W-2 form(s) for all jobs last year

  • 1099-NEC and/or 1099-K 
  • Records of income not reported on 1099 forms
  • Records of expenses including receipts, credit statements, etc.
  • Record of estimated tax payments
  • SSA-1099 form for Social Security benefits (if retired)
  • 1099-R for pension/IRA/annuity income (if retired)
  • 1099-G (if you received unemployment income or refund of state/local income taxes)
  • 1099-R (if you received disability income)
  • Documents for income or loss from the sale of stocks, bonds, or real estate (if applicable)
  • Documents for alimony received (if applicable)
  • Statements for prizes or lottery/gambling winnings (if applicable)
  • Documents for any other income

Expense documents to claim tax deductions including

  • 401k or IRA contributions
  • Taxes paid on the state and local level
  • Mortgage and property tax bills
  • Receipts for charitable donations
  • Records for supplies used as an educator

Everyone’s situation is different. It’s best to call a tax preparer as soon as possible to know precisely what is needed for your appointment.

Don’t spend 25% more on taxes by missing the deadline. Book an appointment with a tax preparer today and be prepared by gathering all the documents you need to make your appointment go smoothly.

Don’t pay more than you need to.

File today.

A.K. Burton, PC, has been working with the IRS for our clients for many years. Our firm has experienced accountants and lawyers who can represent you before the IRS and resolve any issues you may have. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation.

We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area.

For more information, visit the Tax Outreach website

How to Avoid an Audit on Your 2021 Tax Returns

Audit!

That word sends shivers into any honest taxpayer. You do everything you know to do on your tax returns. Your CPA has signed it and filed it. 

However, despite all that, the audit notice from the IRS has arrived. You’re stressed.

It doesn’t have to be that way. You can avoid an audit on your 2021 tax returns if you take the right preventative steps to do it. Here are some smart and legal ways to do it: 

    1. Don’t lie or attempt to cheat the IRS: This is the first and foremost reason! SO many people try to cheat the IRS every year. Some get away with it but most do not. Besides that, it’s just wrong. Dishonest tax filers claim excessive or unreasonable tax deductions. They are so obvious, that the IRS flags them and begins investigating. Their agents will ask for additional information. If discrepancies are found, the agency may levy penalties. Instead, be truthful in all your deductions and credits.
    2. Keep accurate and detailed records: There is a boatload of different forms that are available based on deductions and income. They can be confusing and it’s easy to make mistakes or forget them. Thus, the importance of keeping accurate and thorough records during the year. Keep all expense receipts in a file labeled for that year. That file should be accessible at all times. File your taxes only when you have all the required forms so you won’t have to amend your tax return.
    3. Don’t overdo it with your home office deduction. Self-employed people who have businesses in their homes are considered independent contractors. The deductions designated for that should be “reasonable” as the IRS defines it or it may become a huge red flag, especially if the home office is where you derive most of your income. So, claim just a percentage of your mortgage or rent that is your true workspace. Other expenses, such as phone, AC/heat, supplies, and other expenses can be claimed as business-related.
    4. File electronically. A good way to avoid audits is to file them online. The IRS encourages this for one big reason: paper filing usually contains many more errors than electronic files. Hard copy errors are 21% as electronic filing is 0.5%. The IRS software has protections in place so that filers have fewer errors. 
    5. Hire an experienced bookkeeper, accountant, or CPA. Tax laws change every year. It’s almost impossible to keep up with them unless you are an accounting professional. So, protect yourself and hire an accountant or bookkeeper to file your taxes for you. Most good accountants will also represent you to the IRS, which can be invaluable to prevent an audit. 

Tax Day is April 18, 2022, which is only a few weeks away as we publish this blog. No one wants to be audited. It can be agonizing. If you have not done the above steps or wonder if you are going to be audited, please contact an accountant for a consultation. 

AK Burton, PC, knows the current tax laws and how to work with the IRS. Our experienced tax preparers can file your business and personal tax returns and represent you to the IRS. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation. 

We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area.

The Expectations for the 2022 Tax Preparation Season


The holiday season has come and gone but “tax season” is always with us. This tax season may be as complicated as ever due to the pandemic and a flurry of new tax laws that came down from Congress. 

Your expectations for your personal and business tax preparation may have to be adjusted, particularly with working with the IRS (always a challenge) and the child and dependent tax credit. Here are some facts to keep in mind as you get your documents in order to file for 2021:

  1. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Delayed and behind 
  2. E-filing begins January 24, 2022: The IRS is already way behind in preparing for this tax season and is still working on 2019 and 2020 tax filings. These disruptions are blamed on the ongoing pandemic along with budget cuts, a shrinking workforce, and outdated technologies at the IRS.
  3. Delayed refund for returns claiming Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). The IRS cannot issue refunds before mid-February 2022 for returns that properly claim ACTC. This time frame applies to the entire refund, not just the portion associated with ACTC.
  4. The Child and Dependent Care Credit: 
    • Differences in credits for qualifying children and other dependents tax year 2021
    • Enhanced child tax credit. For 2021, the child tax credit applies to qualifying children who have not attained age 18 by the end of 2021. Also, the initial amount of the child tax credit is increased to $3,600 for each qualifying child who has not attained age 6 by the end of 2021 and $3,000 for each other qualifying child who has not attained age 18 by the end of 2021. The credit for other dependents has not been enhanced. 
    • In the know. Important abbreviations: ACTC means additional child tax credit.  ATIN means adoption taxpayer identification number.  ITIN means individual taxpayer identification number.  NCTC means nonrefundable child tax credit.  ODC means credit for other dependents.  RCTC means refundable child tax credit.
    • Delayed refund for returns claiming ACTC. The IRS cannot issue refunds before mid-February 2022 for returns that properly claim ACTC. This time frame applies to the entire refund, not just the portion associated with ACTC.
    • 2021 Child and dependent care credit information: The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, was enacted on March 11, 2021, making the Child and Dependent Care credit substantially more generous and potentially refundable (up to $4,000 for one qualifying person and $8,000 for two or more qualifying persons) only for the tax year 2021, This means an eligible taxpayer can receive this credit even if they owe no federal income tax. Your federal income tax may be reduced by claiming the Credit for Child and Dependent Care expenses on your tax return. ***

If you have been frustrated the past filing your individual and/or business in the past, this year will not be any different. We are constantly hearing from clients who are having difficulty contacting the IRS to get important information or a consultation on a previously filed tax return. 

AK Burton, PC, knows the current tax laws and how to work with the IRS. Our experienced tax preparers can file your business and personal tax returns and represent you to the IRS.  Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation. Our office is open. Covid protocols if requested. We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area. 

*** For more information on Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, visit the IRS website.   

 

2021 Child Tax Credit and Advanced Child Tax Credits

As the season’s change, so do the tax laws. Congress and the Internal Revenue Service make adjustments yearly though they usually give taxpayers a year to get ready for the changes. Most of them are minor, however, there are a few laws, especially following the COVID-19 crisis, that affect millions of Americans.  

The pandemic spurred lawmakers to sign into law the American Rescue Plan. It includes an important change to the Child Tax Credit (CTC)***, which will become effective July 15, 2021. The changes to the CTC include:

  • amount increased for many taxpayers
  • fully refundable
  • includes children who turn 17 in 2021
  • monthly advance payments of half the estimated annual CTC from July through December

Here are some details about the CTC:

  1.  Your child must be under eighteen (18) years of age
  1.  For tax year 2021, the Child Tax Credit is increased from $2,000 per qualifying child to:
    1. $3,600 for children ages 5 and under at the end of 2021; and
    2. $3,000 for children ages 6 through 17 at the end of 2021. 
  2. Depending on your tax bracket and filing status, you may be phased out from receiving the refundable credit:
    1. A single filer with children under 17 making up to $75,000 will receive the full payment for each child, while those earning up to $90,000 will get a reduced amount. 
    2. Joint filers with children who make up to $150,000 will get the full credit, while those earning up to $170,000 will receive a smaller amount.
  1. Unlike the economic impact payments which did not need to be paid back if they were issued in error, the CTC must be paid back if issued to an ineligible recipient. To unenroll in the advance CTC payments go to: www.irs.gov/childtaxcredit2021 .

If you have any questions about child tax credits, consult your income tax advisor or accountant. A.K. Burton, PC, can do all your income tax preparation. We have experienced staff who can prepare and file your federal and state tax return and represent you before the IRS. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation. Our office is open. At this time we are not providing in-person services because of the pandemic. We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area.

***Find out more about the Child Care Tax Credit from the IRS website.