Tax time is right around the corner and if you haven’t already filed your taxes, now is the time
to get your paperwork in order and get the deed done. No one enjoys filing their taxes, but
waiting until the last minute opens the door to mistakes and the potential for missed deadlines.
You’re going to need a variety of documents, depending on your filing status. The following are
just some of the most common forms that may apply.

W-2s
These detail all the income you had from employers throughout the year, whether you were
employed full- or part-time.

Form 1099
If you worked in the gig economy or had side hustles, the IRS considers that as being self-
employed. That makes you subject to a higher rate of taxation. Due to third-party payment
platforms, it can be difficult to differentiate self-employed income from gifts or repayments.
Form 1099 tells the IRS how much you made via self-employment. Be sure to keep accurate
records of expenses associated with self-employment or a small business.

Form 1098
This is provided by your mortgage company if you’re a homeowner. It will tell how much
mortgage interest was paid.

Form 1099-DIV
The form is for any income or dividends received from investment distributions. That includes
stocks and bonds, along with investment or rental properties.

Form 1098-E
Report student loan interest from this form. Depending on your income, it could potentially
qualify you for a deduction of up to $2,500.

Form 5498
Contributions throughout the year to your individual retirement account are reported on this
form. The amount may be tax deductible.

Form 1095-A
It’s a statement from the Health Insurance Marketplace. You can receive a tax credit for
premiums paid, offset by healthcare costs.

Letter 6419
Anyone who received advanced child tax credits will receive a letter outlining the amount they
received.

At Peavy and Associates PC our mission is to assist you with all your tax preparations, payroll and accounting needs.  We provide our clients with professional, personalized accounting services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Give us a call today (843) 347-0849 and discover why our clients return to Peavy and Associates, PC year after year!

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The most important reason you need a certified CPA is that they can save you money. Tax
preparers typically undergo a basic course before embarking on tax preparation services. A
certified CPA has years of specialized education and experience to draw upon. There are many
levels and specialties in the realm of CPAs and its important to find the right professional for
the task.

More Money
A certified CPA utilizes specialized, sophisticated software and is cognizant of the changing tax
laws. They’re knowledgeable in credits, deductions, extensions, and amendments of which the
average individual wouldn’t be aware. They can even amend returns from previous years. The
experts are able to identify errors that could result in higher taxes or an audit and maximize
refunds.

IRS Representation
Everyone fears an IRS audit and it’s difficult to justify a tax return when you’re in a panic. A
certified CPA has the authority to represent you in an audit. The professionals deal in facts,
figures, and speak the same financial language as the IRS.

They can also aid in lowering the financial cost of an audit and negotiate on your behalf if the
findings go against you. Just remember that even if the return is completed by the CPA, you’re
still responsible for the information that it contains.

Confidentiality & Documentation
Home filing systems can be haphazard, incomplete, and completely unsuitable if they pertain to
a business endeavor. A certified CPA retains your records and treats them with the utmost
confidentiality.

Future Planning
A certified CPA is a licensed professional qualified to prepare your taxes, plan for future tax
returns, retirement, investments, and business success.

Peace of Mind
Tax returns are complex and complicated. The peace of mind that comes with a certified CPA is
worth the extra cost. Consumer software and even online preparation sites are essentially a
one-size-fits-all solution for “easy” tax returns. They don’t provide the same level of experience
and expertise that’s provided by a certified CPA.

At Peavy and Associates PC our mission is to assist you with all your tax preparations, payroll and accounting needs.  We provide our clients with professional, personalized accounting services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Give us a call today (843) 347-0849 and discover why our clients return to Peavy and Associates, PC year after year!

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In days gone by, personal finance skills were taught in school. The courses went by the wayside
as other subjects were deemed more important. An example is algebra, which is a required
course, but one that few students use after leaving school. Be advised that youngsters tend to
emulate the financial attitudes of their parents and good financial habits can be learned.

Begin in Childhood
Parents shouldn’t be afraid to discuss money matters in front of the children. The age of 7 is a
good time to begin financial education by teaching children good spending habits. Young
children can be given a weekly amount, while teens can receive an amount at 2-week intervals.
It’s a good idea to tie the stipend to chores to encourage a work ethic.

Saving
The ability to save money rather than spending it for instant gratification is one of the best
lessons a child can learn. If the youngster wants something specific, suggest they save a portion
of their funds until they have the required amount.

Extra Earnings
The opportunity to earn extra money provides children with more control over how they earn,
save and spend. It also teaches a work ethic.

Philanthropy
Introduce children to the concept of philanthropy. Parents that give to charitable endeavors
should take their children with them when they contribute and talk about why they’re giving
back to the community.

Resist Temptation
It’s difficult for parents to see their children want something and struggle to achieve it. Resist
the temptation to give youngsters extra money before the allotted time. The negative
consequences of being careless with their money is a strong and powerful lesson. Be sure to
discuss spending habits with children and ways they can do better in the future.

Budgeting
The early foundation for budgeting as a child will help teens. Show them how to create a
budget that accounts for the things they need vs things they want. It’s a lesson in prioritization.

Pitfalls
It’s equally important to discuss the pitfalls of high-interest student loans and credit card debt,
along with paying bills on time, as youngsters mature into adults.

Certified public accountants (CPAs) are in high demand and not just at tax time. They act as
trusted consultants on financial matters and maintain information on accounts for individuals,
businesses, and even non-profit organizations. CPAs assist clients in attaining their financial
goals. The professionals can choose to specialize in a particular area of accounting
encompassing taxation, personal finance, forensic accounting or environmental accounting.

College Level Accounting
CPAs in Florida are required to complete 150 semester hours of college-level education in
accounting by an accredited educational institution.

Acquire Experience
Those desiring to become a CPA must also complete a required 2,000 hours of experience over
12 months of work or a minimum of 20 hours per week. A CPA that’s currently licensed or an
approved chartered accountant must verify the hours. Individuals can begin working toward
the completion of their work experience after completing 120 hours of classwork from an
accredited educational institution.

CPA Exam
Prospective CPAs must pass the Uniform CPA Exam. Created and developed by the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), it’s the only pathway to being able to practice
as a CPA. Candidates must apply to the Florida Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation
(DBPR), Division of Certified Public Accountants to receive authorization to take the exam. The
4-part exam must be passed within an 18-month time period.

Licensure
Licensing is required of CPAs to pursue their chosen profession. They must create an account
with the DBPR to apply for a license. Individuals must also provide documentation that they’ve
completed all the educational requirements; work experience; exam results; pay a fee; and
submit their application. This must be accomplished within 3 years of passing their exam via a
printable form or an online portal.

Licenses must be renewed every 2 years. CPAs are required to complete 80 hours of ongoing
education, of which 8 must be in accounting, auditing and technical business. In addition,
behavioral coursework must be completed, limited to no more than 20 hours, along with a
minimum of 4 hours in ethics.

The IRS is one of the few governmental agencies that has the ability to make people freeze in terror – and for good reason. The IRS has the authority to garnish wages, levy fines, take money from your bank accounts, and confiscate your car, home and other personal property. When the IRS notifies you of an audit, there are specific steps to take.

Don’t Panic

Difficult as it may be, you need to remain calm if you’re to discover the extent and reason for the audit. It may be the result of an innocent mistake and easily rectified. The IRS notification will explain why you’re being audited.

It may not even be the result of an actual error. The IRS uses computer technology that screens and selects returns to be audited. They’re often chosen based on a statistical formula against what the IRS considers the “norm.”

People with incomes of 25,000 or less and those making $500,000 or more are the most likely to be audited. If the company you work for is audited, you might be, too.

The Process

Most IRS audits are conducted via mail and there’s no need to sit face-to-face with an auditor. However, if you receive a notice that you’re being audited, providing a timely response is critical. You should know that the IRS has up to three years in which it can start and conclude the audit process from one of your tax returns.

Hire a Professional

It’s an excellent idea to hire a tax professional that’s legally able to represent you in an audit. Collect all the documentation that you used to complete your return in the year for which you’re being audited. The more information you can provide to the tax professional, the better he/she can advocate for your interests.

Findings

You should know that if the auditor finds you at fault, you have the right to appeal within 30 days. The IRS will send a letter indicating the audit is closed, at which time you can appeal. Unfortunately, many people only see the decision rendered in the letter, not their ability to dispute the findings. You must appeal within 30 days of receiving the letter.

At Peavy and Associates PC our mission is to assist you with all your tax preparations, payroll and accounting needs.  We provide our clients with professional, personalized accounting services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Give us a call today and discover why our clients return to Peavy and Associates, PC year after year!

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Retirement is a critical time in an individual’s life in financial terms. A retiree’s ability to live as they want will depend on their investments, the age they retire, and the lifestyle they want to maintain. It’s beneficial to consult with an accountant to take advantage of all the ways to save.

Diversification

Diversity in investments can help people manage their tax burden. Not all income is taxed the same. Some sources are taxed as long-term capital gains that don’t add to the yearly tax responsibility.

The 15 Percent

The 15 percent tax bracket is ideal for retirees. It’s possible for couples to make up to $100,000 after taking the standard deduction and still remain within the 15 percent bracket. They’ll receive zero tax on income sources as long as they qualify as long-term capital gains.

Roth IRA

This is one of the few resources that individuals can draw funds from that won’t add to taxable income, as it doesn’t involve pre-tax money. Traditional IRAs can be converted to a Roth IRA, though individuals will be taxed on the amount in the year that the IRA is converted.

Delay Withdrawals

Individuals may be able to draw on their retirement resources, but it’s best not to if they’re still working. After the age of 70, there’s no reason to delay withdrawing from retirement accounts. The SECURE Act resulted in changes to the Required Minimum Distribution. Waiting until age 72 to take the first distribution will result in paying a higher tax rate.

Social Security

Individuals may discover that up to 85 percent of their Social Security benefits are taxable, depending on the amount of money a person has from other resources.

No Tax States

Some retirees choose to relocate to states such as Florida and it’s not all about the climate. There are currently 39 states that provide tax exemptions on interest, dividends, pensions and/or Social Security benefits. Some don’t even charge state income tax.

At Peavy and Associates PC our mission is to assist you with all your tax preparations, payroll and accounting needs.  We provide our clients with professional, personalized accounting services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Give us a call today and discover why our clients return to Peavy and Associates, PC year after year!

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An accounting service provides a variety of services that are an integral part of operating a financially solvent business and maintaining compliance. It’s essential that Individuals speak with several firms before choosing one to ensure that it will be able to meet business needs.

Some accounting firms offer a comprehensive range of services, while others specialize in one or more areas. Business owners may have requirements beyond bookkeeping, payroll and tax filing. It’s critical that the accounting service provide the services unique to a particular business operation.

Bookkeeping and Payroll

Owning a business doesn’t automatically mean that the owner is good with the financial responsibilities of operating an enterprise. Accounting firms can process payroll, issue checks, and provide the appropriate forms for onboarding new employees. The firms help business owners monitor cash flow and may offer services for accounts payable, receivable and past due.

Taxes

An accounting service will provide advice and assistance in planning for tax time, prepare the necessary documents, and file federal and state taxes. The firm can also represent a client in IRS audits and reviews. Accounting services work closely with clients to identify beneficial strategies and business structuring to take advantage of tax laws. Services ensure that clients are in compliance with state and federal regulatory and tax laws.

Valuation and Financing

Businesses want to grow and that may include obtaining a loan to purchase new equipment or expand a facility. It can also encompass mergers and business buyouts. An accounting firm can provide the documentation to prove the company’s valuation, worth and growth for banks or investors.

Estate Planning

Businesses have needs for estate planning that are unique An accounting firm is adept at identifying those needs. The firm will work with an attorney skilled in estate planning to establish a family trust or business ownership transfer.

At Peavy and Associates PC our mission is to assist you with all your tax preparations, payroll and accounting needs.  We provide our clients with professional, personalized accounting services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Give us a call today and discover why our clients return to Peavy and Associates, PC year after year!

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A W-2 is essential for filing taxes, but in the frenzy to collect all the necessary documentation needed to file each year, the form can easily become lost. It’s not uncommon for the forms to get lost in the mail. It’s a very good reason why individuals should have a filing system and not wait until the last minute to file their federal tax return.

Contact the Employer

If the employer has already mailed a W-2 to an employee, the individual can contact their employer, human resources, or the person in charge of payroll to get a duplicate. It’s typically the easiest and fastest way to obtain a duplicate copy. The form may be mailed, but a copy may be able to be immediately supplied.

Online Access

In some instances, employers utilize systems that will allow an individual to access their own information, see their W-2 online, and download a duplicate copy. Employees may be required to contact their employer or the payroll service to get access. If all attempts to obtain a duplicate W-2 from an employer has failed to produce results, it’s time to contact the IRS.

IRS Website

Businesses must also file tax returns. That includes information about employees and their earnings. If the employer has already provided that information to the IRS, individuals may be able to obtain a transcript of the data. Individuals will need to visit the official IRS website, click on “Get Your Tax Record,” and complete the required IRS form online.

Be prepared to answer questions. In addition to the individual’s contact information and employment dates, they’ll have to provide an estimate of their wages and taxes withheld. Employer contact information will also be required.

Alternative Form

Individuals will still be required to file their federal income taxes on time and pay any amount they owe. The IRS has a “Substitute for Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement” that can be filed. If a W-2 is received after the person has already filed their taxes and the information is different, an emended tax return must be filed.

At Peavy and Associates PC our mission is to assist you with all your tax preparations, payroll and accounting needs.  We provide our clients with professional, personalized accounting services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Give us a call today and discover why our clients return to Peavy and Associates, PC year after year!

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Teens work a variety of jobs for extra money, they may be employed in the family business, or have unearned income from interest or dividends. In 2022, any child that earned $1,150 or more in unearned income is required to file a return. Tax laws surrounding teens, their income, and the type of income are complex. If in doubt, it’s best to hire a tax professional.

Earned Income

Anyone earning $12,550 or more is required to file a federal tax return and that includes teens. A minor that earns $400 or more in wages or tips working full- or part-time must file a tax return. Even if the teen isn’t required to file a return, it’s a good idea to do so if the employer withheld federal income tax from earnings.

Dependents

However, there are some important elements attached to the question of teen tax returns. It will depend on if the teen is 19 or younger, age 24 and a student, or permanently disabled. Another consideration is if the parent provided 50 percent or more of their support and how many months of the year the teen lived with their parent. If any of those situations apply, the teen may still qualify as a dependent.

Unearned Income

A teen that qualifies as a dependent and has unearned income of more than $1,100 must file a return. However, if the teen only had unearned income, parents may be able to include that income on their own tax return. The disadvantage is that it might propel parents into a higher tax bracket.

Earned & Unearned

Teens that have both earned and unearned income, will need to file their own return if they have more than $1,100 of unearned income, over $12,550 in earned income, or if the combined total is the larger of $1,100 or earned income of up to $12,200 plus $350.

At Peavy and Associates PC our mission is to assist you with all your tax preparations, payroll and accounting needs.  We provide our clients with professional, personalized accounting services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Give us a call today and discover why our clients return to Peavy and Associates, PC year after year!

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The tax code is highly complex. There are ways in which individuals can reduce their tax burden, many of which they’re unaware. Anyone can save themselves a significant amount of time, money and stress by hiring a tax accountant.

However, the tax professionals provide far more than assistance at tax time. Tax accountants help clients attain their financial goals, recommend tax strategies, and ensure taxes are filed accurately and on time. More than 74 million individuals and business owners received assistance from a tax professional in 2020. There are 3 essential questions to ask when hiring a tax accountant.

Self-Employment Taxes

Many individuals are operating side hustles and working in the gig economy without realizing that the IRS considers that self-employment. That makes earnings subject to additional taxes. Individuals should ask their tax accountant if they’re paying self-employment taxes and if there’s any way to reduce the amount.

Self-employment taxes include Social Security and Medicare, along with state and federal taxes on income. There are ways to reduce the tax burden and a tax accountant will know how to accomplish that.

Payroll

Business owners need to ask their tax accountant about placing themselves on the company’s payroll in the future. There’s a tax deduction that can be taken by doing so. Not all business entities are able to do this and a tax accountant will know if the client qualifies. For those that do qualify, it’s viewed as a distribution for IRS purposes and owners will be taxed as an employee.

Estimated Taxes

Many small business owners encounter problems during their first years of operation because they don’t budget for their taxes or fail to make estimated tax payments. A tax accountant will be able to provide sound advice and guidance on whether individuals should be making estimated tax payments.

At Peavy and Associates PC our mission is to assist you with all your tax preparations, payroll and accounting needs.  We provide our clients with professional, personalized accounting services and guidance in a wide range of financial and business needs. Give us a call today and discover why our clients return to Peavy and Associates, PC year after year!

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