FDNY

11 hours ago, Abby Normal said:

The biggest problem with buying off the shelf is all the crapware that comes preinstalled, and is set to run automatically at startup. Back when new computers came with a Windows disc, I would reformat the hard drive and reinstall just windows to make sure all that crap was gone. But you can use a good uninstaller to get rid of all traces of those Dell or HP (or whatever brand) programs they install. Dell is the most famous for crapware that impacts performance, security and causes other problems.

That is so true.  Years ago a friend of mine told me about that and he said to use a Bloatware remover that I've used more than once.  I recently used it after installing a new HP printer.   I did remove a few things via control panel but I always research each item before I hit uninstall.   

For this problem I have always used Abby’s first link above.

Control Panel > Administrative Tools > Services then restart 2020 but sometimes I would need to close then start the service.  If you have previous years you may have to restart all of them.  It’s a fickle program at times but rarely happens now.

3 hours ago, ILLMAS said:

I am surprised they can handle any programs at all, aren't they workstations?

They are stand alones , great machines.

2 hours ago, Abby Normal said:

You probably could have just turned off the auto-started ATX server services, because just having programs on your drive won't normally cause problems, unless your problem is drive space. But, computers are mysterious sometimes.

I never thought of that.  I should have come here first.  I do have all those past years on a newer laptop that works fine but will stop the services, after you tell Yardley how to do it.

This is probably obvious but I just had to share it.  In February 2013 I bought a new Dell Optiplex 9010 because my few years old at the time Dell could not handle ATX 2012 as we all remember that debacle.  The 9010 had 2012-2019 ATX on it, and performed well, but slowed the last year.  While doing a 2019 amended return I got a black screen of death.  Was able to resurrect it but it kept happening.  So my next thought (before reaching out to everyone here) was to get rid of ATX 2012-2016, services and all, since it's not really needed any more.  Now the computer works great, ATX loads in seconds instead of minutes.

This year I purchased an Optiplex 7070 Micro which is about the size of what my wife calls "a Billy Sandwich."  At least something good happened to me this tax season.  

While I have been able to keep up my regular work schedule I have now hit a wall with the usual procrastination and getting information has become like pulling teeth.  It’s the same people every year but with the month extension they use it as a license to torture me.  Only answer to that is price increase.  I also have a few EMS workers who are testing for Covid at NY metro airports as contract workers.  They all talk among themselves saying they should deduct meals, mileage, parking, tolls, masks (like they’re not supplied) and haircuts!  My answer is to use someone who will help you with that.  Two took my advice, what a relief.

Received a few calls that automatic state estimated tax withdrawals occurred on the 15th but no federal.  I tell them to wait, it will happen.

Just found out that an amended return filed in March 2020 was processed, just thought I would pass that little tidbit along.

I assume you did the restart of services for all years on your computer 

I’ve always met them at least once until I moved to MA.  Now there must be about 30 I have not met.  Having a friendly relationship with them sometimes calls for an exchange of photos so I send one from 10 years ago.

22 hours ago, grandmabee said:

I just didn't want to miss anything for the NY return as only do 1 or 2 a year.

Lucky you.  If you did 10 it would cost $100 a year and have to watch all kinds of videos with questions, but the instructors are very pleasant state workers.

If I can't find the box 14 item I either ignore it or put in Not on List.    As long as there is no discrepancy between Federal and State income that's good enough to not go hunting.

I have the same situation.  Since they died in 2020 and not disqualified due to income then yes they get the payment.  

I see in the efiled forms tab that it seems like everything is included, even forms that don't have any changes.  Maybe that's a good thing, will never miss anything as with a mailed packet.  Attachments are very easy as they also show on efiled forms tab.

I've also tracked one and it showed up in their system within in a reasonable timeframe, I think a week or 2.

On 3/31/2021 at 5:33 PM, Carolbeck said:

 The Federal is fine, but the NYS is not. When you include the IT-558 for

the code A-011, the IT-201 is doubling adding back the excluded UCE. 

This only happens if on an earlier return, before being automatic, you manually subtracted the UCE on Sch 1 L 8, so it's there twice.  It will double the amount on NY.  

What a crazy year, one for the books.

Ha!  But something just doesn’t seem right.  A tax season with all kinds of ups and downs and no program updates makes me a little suspicious.   At least the form updates seem to be keeping up, I hope.

What a day, I hope you charge them big time.  All the best to you and your husband for a speedy recovery.

Wouldn’t the Spanish SS be taxable if applicable like our SS, not sure what treaty says.

What I do with Canadian OAS is treat it like US SS pursuant to the treaty 

1 hour ago, Randall said:

They should move the filing date back to the year 9595. 

 

Great song by Zager  and Evans.  By 9595 we may have a problem if those lyrics come true.

To answer the second question I always get an 8332 signed.  I like to make sure custodian parent signs so no surprises.  These can be the most difficult clients, that’s why I usually let one of them go unless everyone is on a friendly basis.

18 minutes ago, Possi said:

 

I'm also happy about wine. 

Cheers.

I have noticed that I am drinking a little more lately, puts a smile on my face and a bounce in my step.  Thankful for the little things that make life more enjoyable during these doubly stressful times for tax practitioners.

I'm reading a book,  while on my early morning life cycle ride, Optimum Health by Dr. Sinatra, a cardiologist.  In it he mentions studies that were done on accountants during tax season and no surprise there are higher incidences of health issues during the season that subside after the season.  He also recommends a glass of red wine a day so this is a no brainer (he doesn't mention the size of the glass though, you be the judge).

But a big takeaway from your post is the calming effect of that update,  can't wait for ATX's because the work and stress is piling up and I may need more wine.

My client did have 2 incidents of ID theft from his credit union recently.  He finally got through and agent also didn’t have an answer as to why he got the letter.  Agent asked 3 questions, how much SS did you get, how much estimated tax did you pay and where did your pension come from.  After 3rd question agent said Bingo, you’re good to go.  My guess was that someone tried to file for a refund in his name, but I filed this guy early and he owed.  I hear IRS is getting good at stopping ID theft.

Client says the recording keeps saying due to high volume call back later.  At least letter gives him 30 days.  Good luck.

I go with keeping it simple as asset sale with purchase info as basis, nice and neat.  No hiding under desk, no time for this, you have work to do.

So sorry for your loss Rita and family. You’ve been a good daughter and great comfort to Mom.

26 minutes ago, Lion EA said:

That’s Switzerland, land of banking, watches, and your favorite, some of the best chocolates in the world.  Netherlands happens to be the home office of ATX/CCH where they wear wooden shoes and have the most beautiful windmills.