easytax

This helped answer some of my "procedural" questions on the ATX software --- From a comment on the ATX site made 11/17/14: The software will include the IRS instructions and forms, however there are several pieces of data that you must obtain from the client and enter manually. If the taxpayer had full coverage all year, then you will just need to check the box on line 61 of the 1040. If the taxpayer receives a 1095-A, you will need to complete Part II of the 8962. If there is a difference between the Premium Tax Credit calculated and the Advanced Premium Tax Credit received, it will flow to line 46 if the taxpayer received too much or line 69 if the taxpayer did not receive enough. If the taxpayer didn't have insurance or is claiming an exemption, you will need to fill out form 8965. If the taxpayer claimed an exemption through the marketplace, then the preparer will enter the Exemption number in Part I. (The taxpayer would provide that exemption ID number to you) If the taxpayer is claiming an exemption on the tax return, then you will select the exemption in Part III. If the taxpayer did not have insurance, then you will have to complete the Shared Responsibility Payment worksheet for each member of the household that didn't have insurance and the total amount will flow to line 61 of the 1040. Note: Part I, Part III and the Shared Responsibility Payment worksheet could be filled in the same return depending when the exemptions or lack of coverage apply. It is also possible that a 8962 and 8965 could be completed in the same return if the taxpayer had insurance for part of the year. Stephanie B Customer Care Director

The QuickBooks maker unveiled a series of live and virtual training opportunities to help preparers get ready for the 2014 tax season and the expected onslaught of confusion and new tax rules stemming from ACA. Intuit reports that its recent survey of tax pros revealed that only 7 percent of respondents felt “very prepared” for the changes resulting from the ACA. Tax professionals can earn free CPE credits –- three credits for the live sessions and one credit for the webinars -– as they learn more about the ACA’s implications for taxpayers and businesses and how they can help clients prepare. The next live seminar will be offered twice on Thursday, Nov. 13, in Los Angeles: from 8 a.m. to noon (Pacific Time) and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Hilton North Los Angeles/Glendale, 100 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale, Calif. The webinars will be on Nov. 18 and Nov. 20, and on Dec. 9 and Dec. 11. For information or to register, visit Intuit ACA Resources or the Intuit ACA sites for in-person training or webinar training. This was from a 'Tax Pros Today" article received today 11/10/2014 --- Nov. webinars are full -- Dec. 9 & 11 still open as of now (1900 hr. EST 11/10).

No - actually this is a "better" board as far as tax answers (maybe ATX has a more "software" answer available but tax wise I learn more here than at the other board). Agree, with complaints --- without --- an actual question or answer, so I also learn some software stuff here too. Is the time change why it is darker out earlier now? --- maybe that is why I am "off" more than normal too Changing my mind somewhat --- did not understand the "private forum" was pictures, kids, non-tax chatting mostly for those who contribute for this forum --- actually makes sense to me, as it lets "general chat" open for "GENERAL" things. Although, if we do get too crazy and there are too many non-tax things, I like to be able to skip them --- in favor --- of the "good" knowledge. Maybe the headings comment -- before and below --- is the answer? Also, your mention that some "software" questions, etc. tie into actual tax preparation knowledge makes more sense as the two MANY times do go together. TOTALLY agree where if the subject headings are specific and descriptive, it will HELP cut down on reviewing time, when we actually need to "keep up" LASTLY but definitely not least --- is Eric does a TREMENDOUS job of keeping us up, running and moving forward along with having moderators who are willing and knowledgeable to help and guide. PLUG ---- consider "donations" button. Mine are unfortunately usually small but heartfelt (and I believe Eric is appreciative of whatever is possible) --- join in --- THANKS.

Like the idea of separate because of easier to use, especially during busy time.

From a discussion on ACA and what MIGHT happen to --- ease - things ... Here is the URL for the MSN article where it is mentioned -- http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/personalfinance/4-ways-tuesday%e2%80%99s-election-could-hit-you-in-the-wallet/ar-BBc7fis?ocid=U147DHP Maybe we should "look at" getting insurance licenses too? (along with the proper E&O and mal-practice insurance --- because when enrolling, there will be questions on what policy, coverage differences, etc... --- and I for one DO NOT want to "hang myself" because someone says --- well they did not explain it properly, etc. --- which is a BIG insurance requirement) //// based on knowledge of PA, MD and NJ insurance requirements, law, etc. "People who are getting subsidies go in and out of the work force, and it's therefore really hard for them to predict what they're income really is," Gleckman explains. "It would be nice if we could figure out an easier way." One simple proposal that has received support in both parties is to move the Obamacare open enrollment, which currently takes place from November to February, closer to tax season in April. That way tax preparation firms could help people file their taxes and apply for enrollment simultaneously.

This may meet your need. I am NOT a member but some are and I believe it has been mentioned here on the forum that they are a decent society. If you're like most experienced tax professionals, you know the basics of the Affordable Care Act - the Individual Mandate, the Premium Tax Credit, the Individual and Employer Shared Responsibility Penalty. But are you ready for the real-world application? Did you know that refunds may be delayed if the forms and worksheets aren't completed correctly? We'll provide you actual forms, checklists and examples of what to expect this tax season. Get the answers to your questions about ACA. Tax season is just around the corner, don't ignore the changes that must be made. Space is limited and spots are filling up quickly! November 4 November 6 Upcoming webinars: The ABCs of Form 3115 Office and Field Exams: An Expert's Perspective The Complicated Issues of Insolvency View all upcoming webinars

Taxman, I am no longer a licensed insurance agent, but things have not changed a lot for the better. Confirm - in a nursing home --- if so, then it is like taking the horse out of the barn - after the fire ---- nobody will write. If in an assisted living facility -- there may be hope -- BUT -- most providers will be cost prohibitive and may make a requirement that there is a two (2) year graduated wait until benefits for a nursing might be paid. For the most part --- if they have "problems" that require nursing home care (need/require ADL's - aid to daily living of a certain number)--- generally they will be dis-allowed by the long term care community (insurance wise).

1520 hr. 10/23/14 It is here and loads easily and STILL works. A good way to start the last release ! yea

My initial thoughts (much more detail needed --- but what the heck). Can NOT be a second home --- he stated it was rented out for a year plus. Could be an investment for son's tax return -- do purchase and sale that way. From what you say - long term as over a year from purchase to sale. Working up the basis will be interesting -- from your comments -- son will still have a GAIN. Plan B -- son legally has no income (your explaination) for 2013 -- so legally -- no can do. Plan C -- regardless of 1099S issuance -- this is a "SNAKE IN THE GRASS" waiting to "bite" son -- if not done legally and properly --- it either is the son's to report -- or it is the fathers --- they do not get to choose --- however the transaction was is how it is --- cut-dried- you just get the pleasure of "digging them out" and keeping them "tax legal". Rental income and expenses are all to father and his taxes --- son only was investor -- had no dealings with rental, etc. (ownership only). Money from aunt was "borrowed" by dad - so son not involved Cousin, (mortgage in cousins name -- not clear here) --- so cousin has mortgage filing, interest, costs, etc..) Since, I am nosy, please keep us informed. Thanks

Nice idea --- with reservations: In a pass life one of my responsibilities was to work on programs like this. EXCELLENT idea BUT make sure you structure it with "drop off" of weapons being done separately from doing taxes, etc.. MUST BE easily accessible, secure, many people around (not maybe right there but not you alone, etc.), security made known and immediate (at least at end of time daily) removal of weapons by police, etc. Criminals (even gang-bangers) are not dumb and if you do not meet these requirements, they would have no hesitation in helping you remove what you collect to a different place, etc.. Although some "politicians" are not much removed from "gang-bangers" (my opinion) -- you might want to see if the local government will help "work" and/or maybe expand the program. You will get mostly "semi-legal" people participating (those who have a weapon just in the closet, etc.) but you will still remove some possible sources and help a bit. Use the same safety of self and love ones as guidance for your "guns for refunds" guidance and you might be OK.

Alright 1649 hr. 10/21/2014 --- just checked and version 13.6.0.84 is current with no updates (yet). Is there a different place to get a copy of the organizer? I would like to see the ACA questions to compare them with what I put in my own organizer. Thanks.

Understood, the however there is --- what will the "program do"? It is simple if the answer is yes --- continue moving on. If "no", will the program move to the different forms to figure the penalty, etc. and if so, will they be "mandated" by the "program" to be used in order to e-file, etc.. Given there will be a LOT of entry and information gathering -- there almost MUST be an additional cost as there may be A LOT of additional time. Just a different perspective. Just like the IRS does not "bow to the courts" for use of what is done, said in divorce decrees, etc. --- a lot may depend on how our illustrious "programmers" read and understand (or not) what really needs to be done (hopefully by code and just not what is "understood", read, heard, or been stated in seminars, etc. by the IRS employees or presenters). Remember the IRS has specificially stated that you can not rely on their information (instructions, forms, regulations, etc. as the definitive answer or way to do things -- their words) but MUST rely on the "code" as written. ----- SCARY isn't it ....

You will probably need form 8832 (unless you do a sub S corp. - exception in directions). See this URL for discussion (jumping to the proper type (single, corp., etc.) at the top right under "Related Links"): http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Limited-Liability-Company-LLC You also might want to review Pub 3402 which can be found here: http://www.irs.gov/uac/Publication-3402,-Taxation-of-Limited-Liability-Companies One of the things will be timing as some election options can only be done not more than 75 days before or more than 12 months after election filing. Easy read, just step through the material.

Think WEBINAR! As a person who does almost all with Webinars my perspective is that you can help more people, increase your business (both as tax pro and teacher) with not that much more work over giving a "class". Costs can be very variable but you do not have to pay a lot to have a GREAT course --- after all, you have you -- that would be the biggest cost with the GREATEST benefit; the rest is just tech (easy stuff).

Not that I am aware of. The 1023 is required in all circumstances. Here is the URL for the four ways: http://www.irs.gov/Charities-&-Non-Profits/Charitable-Organizations/Automatic-Revocation-How-to-Have-Your-Tax-Exempt-Status-Retroactively-Reinstated Note: If it happens again --- reinstatement only has two ways NOT four. Hope this helps.

By the way, Also found this tidbit on "Security" features/software you may want to consider. I personally like a suite (Norton 360 Premier) but that is only because I am too lazy to load separately always update each separately. I LIKE automatic! As an aside, I am looking at ZoneAlarm suite for all when I next renew (cost is better and as far as I can tell --- right now, the protection is good too). Security Software Hackers and viruses and malware – oh my, George Takai. With all these digital threats online, it's easy to sell people on a $39.99 to $89.99 annual fee for a full security solution from Norton, McAfee or whoever your favorite security company is. The sad part isn't the money you're wasting, it's that you're actually less secure putting all your eggs in one security basket. Instead of paying for security software, grab a free antivirus (such as AVG), malware protection (MalwareBytes Anti-Malware), and firewall (ZoneAlarm). Utilizing security solutions from three manufacturers triples your security against malicious attackers, who have to figure out a way to exploit three separate security measures.

Yup, me too. Besides, as I get older --- less things to remember that do not really count.

Tom, Just explain to her that it is a chauvinist "thing" (stress government ---- NOT YOU) --- she "for sure" will understand!

Here is some information on storage too (I am NOT a cloud believer - I like my data where I can physically get it): Cloud Storage There are so many cloud services out there these days, it's almost hilarious. Solid state drives may still be expensive, but they're coming down in price, and soon, you'll be able to cheaply fit terabytes of storage on your body. Storing your data on someone else's servers is ludicrous, not to mention expensive. Dropbox's 1 TB plan costs $9.99/mo. , totaling $119.88 per year. At Best Buy, a 1 TB, USB 3.0 hard drive costs $69.99. Plug that into your home PC, and you can create a VPN, accessible by any of your devices anywhere you have an internet connection (so long as your PC is turned on). Spend another $69.99, and you can plug the second 1 TB hard drive into your router, making it accessible to anyone on your WiFi connection. Cloud storage may end up being valuable one day though, so be sure to sign up for every GB of free space you come across. Just don't spend any money on it, and for the love of God, don't store any confidential data there. Use what you have shown your son ... backup and save everything to YOUR hard drive (please consider both an on-site and off-site drive. Yes, it costs a bit but IS WELL worth it --- as you found when you "thought" you had LOST 2014 --

Download the initial ATX disk (instead of getting it in the mail). Keep it as a file on YOUR hard drive and at the end of the season (year) download the latest ATX disk again keeping it on your hard drive. Now (and you could do this at each step too) simply save the ATX program file to a thumb drive and if you want burn it to a CD rom or DVD. Even if you do not have a "burner" simply take the thumb drive with the programs to your local Wal-Mart and have them burn you a copy (friends, family, other stores do this too). Now you have your backup and install disk as you want. Remember to save your install codes too.

Easy to miss ---- remember to always read the BLUE writing at the top of the form. As we speed along many times (me anyway), I missed taking the time and spent more time figuring it out, when reading the BLUE writing would have led me directly to my need. According to the directions on that form (ATX program - BLUE writing at top of sch. E form pg. 2) you enter the date for part II and part III below (sch. E pg. 2 line 27 is in part II) on the K-1 input Worksheets for 1120S, 1065, and 1041. Hope this what you need.

Think of it this way ---- INS goes out and looks for those they want. IRS has problems/preparers REPORTED to them, and what do they do (congress cutting the IRS money not being counted here). The Service is dropping the ball on investigating problem preparers, Treasury inspectors say. IRS failed to investigate more than one-third of preparers who were referred to area offices for possible malfeasance. Inspectors took a look at those who fell through the cracks and found many instances in which preparers had greatly overstated deductions and credits or had filed bogus Schedule Cs to inflate the amount of refundable tax credits, such as the earned income credit. Others looked to be committing identity theft. We all try to do a good job and be compliant because we are professionals and WANT TO DO --- the RIGHT THING. Part of that is not wanting the penalties, etc. from the IRS. Here apparently it proves to be a "crap shoot" as by the above findings --- even if actually turned in --- we may or may not be contacted! Full disclosure --- due to my experience and "luck" -- if you are even vaguely affiliated with me --- you will be caught --- since childhood (remember when the dinosaurs roamed) -- God has kept me inline by making sure if I did something even a little wrong/incorrect (by mistake or willingly)--- it would be known. That has always extended to those I know too --- so beware --- .

I would agree here ---- but my overall belief is that our society is going on a downward trend because --- everybody wants to be nice to the "perps" and not (put in your own words -- scare, hinder, debase, embarrass, etc.) the actual people doing the "WRONG". That is why we have "country club prisons, etc. --- so the people who only take life savings, etc. from families (and ruin them - almost as much as taking actual life) do NOT get thrown into those places who have the "REAL (/s)" bad people who robed a store, did drugs, etc.. If you do wrong, then -- do the time --- wherever it might be. Ever notice that as actual punishment lessens -- people tend to do more bad things? AGAIN --- personal responsibility --- regardless. rant // put on time out///

As an FYI ------ In today's emails ------ NOTICE, it states ---This Program allows ANYONE to open a Tax Preparation Office ----- hopefully their package talks about tax training, etc. too. If anyone goes this way, please share. Thanks, Ed Open a Tax Kiosk for the 2014 Tax Season 1040TaxBiz, the Master vendor for Family Dollar's Tax Kiosk program, is now accepting requests for the 2014 tax season. This program allows anyone to open a Tax Preparation Office inside of one of their 8,000 plus locations. Contact 1040TaxBiz for details on how to open one or one hundred locations. Why open a tax kiosk this season? 1040taxbiz is the exclusive national placement agent with Family Dollar for this coming tax season, giving you access this tax season to 15,000 to 40,000 in foot traffic per month. According to Family Dollars website "Our Core Customer: Female head of household in her mid-40’s making less than $40,000/year" This customer will usually claim Head of household, Earned income credit and Child Tax credit resulting in a refund from anywhere in between 5,000 to 8,000. The customer’s that frequent Family Dollar go 2-3 times a week this is the perfect opportunity for you to touch the customer multiple times before they decide who will do their taxes. That person could be you. Reserve your Family Dollar Kiosk today. Call 1-888-297-4066 or check out our website www.1040taxbiz.com Expand your reach Everything you need to open this tax season. Call now to discuss how you can start your Tax Preparation business now. Already in the Tax business and want to grow, take a look at our Wholesale plans. Foot Traffic Great locations Software Training Marketing Support Complete Packages start as low as $1,499.00 per location This email is being send on behalf of 1040TaxBiz. 5901 E 38th Indianapolis in 46218. We do not share your information with anyone.

According to the article --- very much so. The HOWEVER here is the "look ahead" from the BIG tax prep companies that basically --- where there is confusion and complexity --- there is profit. View the article here: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/magazine/health-law-waivers-too-complicated-to-claim/ar-BB84fxu