You’re Getting Audited – Here’s What to Do

Most of us will never be audited. But when it does happen, it might feel a little scary. The truth of the matter is IRS auditors do audits every day. They know what to look for and can ask questions that you may easily answer incorrectly. Here’s how you can be more prepared if it happens to you:

• Respond to the IRS in a timely manner. Do not let it get to a point that a face-to-face examination is required.
• Ask for help. Do this right away. Too many clients think the problem is easy to resolve, but inadvertently say the wrong thing or open another audit issue inadvertently.
• Know what is being asked. Clearly understanding the core question can simplify the solution. Why is the auditor asking to see your 1099s? Is it regarding a form you don’t have? Is the auditor asking about your small business profits because he/she thinks your business is a hobby?
• Understand how the auditor has been trained. The IRS has certain areas in which it focuses training for its auditors. These are published in Audit Technique Guides (ATGs) and are available for review on the IRS website. The ATGs can be helpful in identifying areas for potential audits, as well as help you understand what the IRS likes to question.

Even if there’s only a small chance that you’ll be audited in your lifetime, it can be helpful to know how you can prepare for it if it happens to you.

For More Info :
http://www.bas-pc.com/ 

Answers to Common Questions After You File Your Tax Return

Many taxpayers have questions after they file their tax returns. The IRS provides answers to many of them. These are a few of the most common.

* How can I check the status of my refund?

You can go online to check on your refund if it has been 24 hours since the IRS would have received your e-filed tax return or four weeks after you mailed your paper return. Go to www.irs.gov and click on “Where’s My Refund?” You will need your Social Security number, your filing status, and the amount of your tax refund.

* What records should I keep?

Keep receipts, canceled checks, or other substantiation for any deductions or credits you claimed. Also keep records that verify other items on your tax return (W-2s, 1099s, etc.). Keep a copy of the tax return, along with the supporting records, for seven years.

* What if I discover that I made a mistake on my return?

If you discover that you failed to report some income or claim a deduction or tax credit to which you are entitled, you can correct the error by filing an amended tax return using Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.

* What if my address changes after I file?

If you move or have an address change after filing your return, send Form 8822, Change of Address, to the IRS. You should also notify the Postal Service of your new address so that you’ll receive any refund you’re due or any notices sent by the IRS.

For answers to other tax questions you may have, give us a call.

For More Information, Visit: Accountants in New Jersey | QuickBooks Consultant

Considering Paying for Your Child’s College Education?

Should you pay for your child’s college education? Or should your child find the financing? There are compelling arguments for both sides, but ultimately, your family needs to do what’s best for your financial situation. Most families find that a combination of both works the best.

Parents should pay.

Arguments in favor of shelling out your hard-earned cash for a son’s or daughter’s higher education can be compelling. For one thing, college is a very expensive proposition these days. A year of undergraduate study at a private university can easily top $30,000 and public in-state schools can run over $12,000. Of course, if your student decides to get an advanced degree or go to medical or law school, he or she can run up a bill exceeding the cost of your home mortgage. Advocates of this point of view ask, “Do you really want to saddle your kid with that kind of debt so early in life?”

They add that if your child ends up working to pay for college, that’s less time available for study and making friends. And, of course, friendships built in college can generate a wealth of opportunities for a future career. Also, by investing in tax-deferred 529 plans, parents can withdraw funds free from federal and some state income taxes when it’s time for college.

The child should take the responsibility.

Others argue that covering the cost of your child’s college education should not be your priority. After all, they reason, your kid has a lifetime to pay back student loans, and making loan payments can generate a positive credit history. Advocates of this position also argue that kids who have to pay for their own tuition, books, and living expenses learn responsibility and value the investment that college represents. They also point to available tuition reimbursement plans provided by some companies or the military service option as a way to get a college education without breaking the bank.

Those on this side of the debate often argue that 529 plans are overrated as a savings vehicle because investment options can be limited and tax rules are likely to change, undermining future tax benefits. Finally, they reason that a parent’s own retirement savings should take precedence over saving for a child’s education.

Making the decision.

Of course, your family’s dynamics, the importance you place on a college education, and your personal financial priorities will factor into this decision. If you’d like help looking at the pros and cons of this important issue, give us a call.

See more at: Certified Accountants in New Jersey | Business Accounting Systems