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The Brilliant Blog
Business news, tax policy updates, pro accounting tips, tutorials for QuickBooks, software reviews, & more.
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Should You Get an IRS Identity Protection PIN?
IRS assigns Identity Protection PINs (IP PINs) are to prevent misuse of social security numbers. Why should you get one?

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20222 min read
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What You Need to Know About the IRS and Tax Audits
An audit from the IRS can be intimidating. The more prepared and better represented you are, the greater your chance for a positive outcome.

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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Were You Affected by a Disaster Loss?
If you are impacted by federal disaster declaration, you may be eligible for tax filing deadline extensions and other tax benefits:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20225 min read
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Our Olympic Champs Get a Tax Break
In addition to winning an Olympic medal, winners are compensated by the U.S. Olympic Committee with tax-free prize money:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20222 min read
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Tax Breaks for Grandparents
Grandparents raising their grandchildren should be aware of a variety of tax breaks that may ease their financial burden:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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Mid-Year Tax Planning Checklist
Planning taxes in mid-year is a smart move. Here is a list of several life events that may trigger tax opportunities or consequences:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20222 min read
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Should You Opt Out of the Advance Child Tax Credit?
If you have children under 18, you might've already received the first Advanced Child Tax Credit. Learn why may be beneficial to opt-out:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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With the Potential Higher Capital Gains Rate Looming Interest in Opportunity Zone Funds Renews
The Biden administration released its 2022 fiscal year budget. Here are details of some of the proposed tax changes:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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4 of the Most Common IRS Tax Problems
The IRS may contact you about your tax return for many reasons. Here are 4 common reasons the IRS may contact—and demand action from—you.

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20222 min read
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Tax Ramifications of Disposing of a Vehicle
If you buy a new car, how should you deal with an old car? Options with and without tax ramifications are available:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20225 min read
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Getting Married and Related Tax Issues
Getting married has tax implications that newlyweds need to consider. Tax problems and surprises can be avoided by taking certain step:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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Congress Introduces Tax-Preparer Regulation Legislation
Congress is working on regulating untrained tax preparers, who may have overlooked your deductions and credits due to the pandemic:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20222 min read
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Minimizing Tax on Social Security Benefits
Find out if your social security benefits are taxable and how to minimize taxes on your benefits:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20223 min read
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How Long Should You Keep Old Tax Records?
Here's how to determine which tax documents should be kept and which can be disposed of after a certain period of time:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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35 Million: The Total Backlog of Tax Returns The IRS Had At The End Of Tax Season
The midyear report indicates a large backlog of tax returns. Despite backlogs being common, this year's is much larger than ever before.

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20222 min read
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IRS Extends COVID-19 Relief Leave Donations
In 2020, the emergency disaster declaration allowed employees to donate unused sick leave/PTO. The IRS extended the donations through 2021.

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20222 min read
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Contemplating Refinancing Your Home Mortgage? Things You Should Consider
You may be thinking about refinancing your mortgage since mortgage rates are currently at historic lows. Here are a few things to consider:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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Tax Rules for Home Flippers
Would you consider flipping a house? Flipping properties appears to be gaining in popularity now that mortgage interest rates are low.

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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Day Care Providers Enjoy Special Tax Benefits
If you provide a family daycare business through the use of your home, you may be able to deduct some expenses related to your business.

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20224 min read
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Did You Get a Letter from the IRS? Don’t Panic.
If you have gotten a letter from the IRS do not panic. Here are some potential reasons why you got the letter and what you can do:

Mariko Hayashi-Hall
Jul 28, 20223 min read
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