Archive for December 22, 2011

PTIN System Unavailable for New Applications

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PTIN System Unavailable for New Applications from Dec. 26 until Jan. 9

 

Due to previously scheduled maintenance on IRS systems, the PTIN system will be unavailable for new applications from 5:00 PM ET on Friday, Dec. 26 until approximately 9:00 AM ET on Monday, Jan. 9. Preparers are still able to renew existing PTINs during this window. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. We are exploring ways to mitigate the outage for preparers who cannot meet the December 26 deadline.  More to come on this issue.

Saver’s Credit, Plan Now to Get Full Benefit

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Plan Now to Get Full Benefit of Saver’s Credit; Tax Credit Helps Low- and Moderate-Income Workers Save for Retirement

IR-2011-121, Dec. 16, 2011

WASHINGTON — Low- and moderate-income workers can take steps now to save for retirement and earn a special tax credit in 2011 and the years ahead, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

The saver’s credit helps offset part of the first $2,000 workers voluntarily contribute to IRAs and to 401(k) plans and similar workplace retirement programs. Also known as the retirement savings contributions credit, the saver’s credit is available in addition to any other tax savings that apply.

Eligible workers » Read more..

IRS issued final regulations requiring paid tax return preparers to file a due diligence checklist

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Starting Jan. 1: Tax Preparers Need to File Due Diligence Checklist with All Earned Income Tax Credit Claims

IR-2011-122, Dec. 20, 2011

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued final regulations requiring paid tax return preparers to file a due diligence checklist, Form 8867, with any federal return claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). This is the same form that is currently required to be completed and retained in a preparer’s records.

The due diligence requirement, enacted by Congress over a decade ago, was designed to reduce errors on returns claiming the EITC, most of which are prepared by tax professionals. The IRS created Form 8867, Paid Preparer’s Earned Income Credit Checklist, to help preparers meet the requirement by obtaining eligibility information from their clients. Preparers have » Read more..