Ask TaxMama Issue 506 - Texas Taxes Protest

2009-05-29 by



Happy Shavuot - commemorating the giving of the ten commandments

Dear Family,

Sheesh…running late today because I’m answering all the e-mails coming in this morning about tomorrow’s class. It looks as if I’ve found a meeting system that addresses the learning environment better than the general conference systems. We’ll be trying it out this weekend. And if you’re interested in the results, ask me and I’ll let you know. I’m so excited about all the new features, and all the terrific new students we’re getting to meet this summer, and the earlier students who are coming back to finish of the last Part or so of the exam. What’s especially nice is the return of long-ago students who had to drop out for a variety of personal reasons (most of them heart-wrenching). Whoever said the Internet was impersonal or dangerous, just has no idea of the delightful, reinforcing and positive relationships you can build online – without there being anything illicit in the relationship.

Happy Shavuout. This is the anniversary of Moses bringing the 10 Commandments to the Jews in the Sinai desert. Is that anything like us waiting for new tax commandments from President Obama?

Hey, did you get that e-mail notice from Advanta about your business card? I thought it was spam and tossed it. Then I got Barbara Weltman’s Idea of the Day, and later that morning, a letter from Advanta repeating the information in their e-mail. It seems they are shutting down their business credit card program entirely. They no longer have funding. So the last day to use that card is Sunday. After that, poof! It’s gone. But you will be given the opportunity to pay your balance off over time. (Don’t you pay the balance each month, anyway?) Not a surprise, I suppose. Have you seen their stock price go down from $41 to 63 cents over the last two years?

Speaking of scams, I just heard from an EA and attorney that he started getting claims notices from the Employment Development Department (California’s unemployment office) regarding people who’ve never worked for him – people he’s never even heard of. Be careful. It seems there is a new scam out there with people filing false claims. Open ALL mail from your unemployment office. If you get a fraudulent claim, be sure to object. While it costs you nothing out of pocket – it does raise your rate for next year’s unemployment insurance.

Monday is Tax Protest Deadline Day in Texas. Apparently, it’s the last day to file protests about your property tax valuation. Our good buddy, Brent Clanton, CNN650 morning show host is taking this opportunity to address other tax issues – solutions or disasters – emerging from the very active White House. I’ll bet you have ideas and opinions about health care funding; something that looks suspiciously like a VAT (don’t know what that is? Join us and we’ll explain); estate tax valuation; taxing global income, and more. Join us at 9:05 am CDT. (Of course, you can join Brent earlier! 7:00 – 10:00 am CDT) http://www.cnn650.com/

Remember to drop by and view last week’s Intuit Community webinar and all the other excellent resources on the Intuit Community Site.

You do know that there is a wealth of information that doesn’t cost you a dime, right? Why aren’t you using it? You’ll find that information – and other complimentary and paid educational opportunities from IRS. It’s all in the emailed newsletter subscribers receive. Sign up now.

Oh yes, did you see the Scripps National Spelling Bee Finals last night? We watched the first hour – and it was utterly charming – and fun. Let me tell you, without having memorized the official dictionary, there’s no way these young folks could have spelled most of the words presented to them. Though, there were one or two surprisingly common words mixed in.
Spelling Bee Finals

For my 12th birthday, my bat-mitzvah, my two brothers bought me a Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary – because they needed one in the house. To their chagrin, not only did I keep the dictionary in my room, inaccessible to them; but I read it! A little thin on plot, but great on subjects, even history, etiquette and stories you wouldn’t believe!

In IRS News this week, we learn about the newly-expanded work opportunity tax credit (WOTC) for eligible unemployed veterans and unskilled younger workers. With summer coming up, and summer hires, perhaps you can help someone in need – and get rewarded with a generous tax credit.
http://taxquips.com/index.php?cat=IRSNews

Today’s Money Funny is all about Men’s perspective on life and marriage.
http://taxquips.com/index.php?cat=MoneyFunnies

In TaxQuips this week, we learn about body builder expenses, and get into a discussion about taxes for a former UK resident who has moved to the US and is selling his UK home.
http://taxquips.com/index.php?cat=TaxQuips

As always, we love your feedback, opinions and ideas.
You are what makes all this fun – and interesting!

Please use the Comments link online.
http://taxquips.com/index.php?id=1238

TaxNerd gear makes a bold statement during tax season.
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Hugs from your favorite TaxNerd,

Eva Rosenberg, EA

Your TaxMama is watching…out for you.

www.TaxMama.com
www.TaxQuips.com
www.IRSExams.com
www.taxnerd.net
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TAX CALENDAR 2009
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06.15.2009 2nd 2009 Estimated Payment – all entities Due

06.15.2009 Employers Make monthly Payroll tax deposit

06.15.2009 Personal Tax Returns Due for US Taxpayers overseas Form 1040

06.15.2009 or File extensions for US Taxpayers overseas Form 4868

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Ask TaxMama
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