Published on: 31 January 2019
Last Updated on: 08 August 2019
A letter from the IRS may seem serious, but the situation that results in the letter may not always be serious. You may find that you’re receiving a notification of a minor error or small sum of money that you owe. Even an audit isn’t causing to panic — the IRS may simply need some additional information in your personal files. Follow these tips to handle communications from the IRS in a calm, sensible manner.
You should always open and review documents from the IRS as soon as you receive them. The IRS will attempt to connect with you by mail to make initial contact regarding any issues with unpaid tax debt, tax filing errors, tax audits, and other issues. The sooner you address the problem, the easier it will typically be to find a satisfactory resolution.
If you ignore letters from the IRS, it is possible for the agency to reach out to you by phone. The IRS recently started working with private debt collection companies to handle unpaid tax debt. Many telephone scams exist as well, and you should be vigilant about confirming any information that you receive by telephone.
Keep Your Tax Documents Organized:
Ideally, you’ll have your tax documents for the last three years safely stored and ready for your review at any time you may need them. These materials include documentation regarding any protections you may enjoy through a third-party tax filing service. Many websites and companies provide audit protection or a guarantee of accuracy, which can give you valuable peace of mind if an audit should arise.
If you do not have these documents on hand, you should take the time to gather them as soon as you’re informed of any type of dispute or IRS audit. Having these documents provides an important sense of security going forward.
Verify the Tax Issue:
Before you make arrangements with the IRS to settle a debt, make sure that the amount of the debt is correct. The IRS may occasionally make errors, so it’s crucial that you check the numbers for yourself and file a dispute if you believe that the figure is incorrect. Contact the IRS immediately if you believe that the agency is operating with incorrect information.
Explore Your Tax Debt Options:
If you owe a debt to the IRS, you don’t necessarily have to pay the full sum immediately. You can explore several tax debt options. Understanding these options can help you avoid panic, particularly if you’re facing a debt too large to pay at once. You may qualify for an offer in compromise, a condition in which you settle your debt with the IRS for a lower sum of money. You can also request that the IRS delay collection or set up a payment plan to handle the debt in a series of installments.
If you hear from the IRS, you should take the time to thoroughly review all communications so that you understand what the IRS requests from you. If you need assistance navigating an audit, tax debt, or other situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help.
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In this day and age, there are way more options for financing your business than just traditional bank loans. As a matter of fact, many business owners prefer alternative business financing for a number of reasons. One reason is that it can be way faster and easier.
Business financing is a struggle for most new business owners. Most industries are often very competitive, and succeeding in the market is definitely not a piece of cake. It can take expensive marketing as well as expansions of physical shops and lots of other actions.
In other words, starting a business is not for the faint of heart - and it is especially not cheap. Therefore, many business owners decide to look into alternative business financing. In this way, it becomes possible to grow the business without involving the bank.
Small Loans, Line Of Credit And Business Credit Cards
Alternative business financing is actually not just one thing but many. The alternative solutions are very popular, which explains why a lot of different options are available. You can find a number of these options, as well as valuable information about business financing, online. To give a few examples, alternative business financing can be fast & short term business loans, business lines of credit, invoice financing, merchant cash advances, business credit cards and equipment financing.
As you can understand, the options are many. So how do you choose? Every option comes with different advantages and requirements. For example, a good credit history can be a requirement for some solutions, while it is not even a factor for others. Therefore, the first step is to get to know all your options and discover which ones suit you and your business the best.
A Faster And Easier Solution
Even though a bank can offer a certain sense of security, it can also be a long and troublesome way to go. Sometimes, your bank will require loads of documentation as well as a good explanation as to why you want to take a loan. Alternative business financing seems to attract a lot of business owners because the requirements are few, and the application process is way easier.
As a matter of fact, for the most part, the fastest and easiest loans are the most popular. Alternative business financing often only requires a 1-page application and limited documentation. The whole application process takes place online, where you do not have to explain anything to anyone. Furthermore, it can be over and done within a few minutes, and you can have the money available within a couple of hours or maybe a day.
All these traits make alternative lending options interesting to new business owners. However, you can also take a loan too quickly and too easily. It is always essential that you think it through and consider other options such as saving money or getting financial help from family and friends. There is no right solution for everyone.
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In the rapidly evolving business environment, automation has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping various operational aspects, including payroll and compliance processes. This technological advancement has significantly impacted how businesses manage their financial obligations and adhere to regulatory standards, much like workforce management systems have revolutionized employee scheduling and task allocation. Automation in payroll and compliance offers many benefits, ranging from enhanced accuracy to improved efficiency. This article dives into the impact of automation on these critical business functions, shedding light on its benefits and the future it heralds for organizations.
Streamlining Payroll Processing
The advent of automation in payroll processing has revolutionized the way businesses approach this critical function. Beyond merely automating calculations, sophisticated software solutions offer integrated time tracking, direct deposit setups, and even mobile access for on-the-go management. This ensures that every aspect of payroll—from initial hours worked to final payment—is handled precisely and efficiently.
Automated systems adeptly manage varying tax rates and legal requirements for businesses operating across different states or countries, ensuring compliance and accuracy regardless of geographic complexities. The result is a streamlined process that saves time and significantly reduces the administrative burden on staff, allowing businesses to allocate resources to areas that drive growth and innovation.
Enhancing Accuracy And Reducing Errors
Automated payroll systems have become invaluable in enhancing the accuracy of financial transactions and reducing errors. By removing manual data entry, the risk of human error significantly decreases, leading to more reliable payroll outcomes. These systems are designed to automatically update in response to changes in tax laws, employee benefits, and other variables, ensuring that every payment is calculated based on the most current information.
Furthermore, they offer detailed records and reports that can be quickly reviewed and audited, providing additional oversight. This meticulous approach to payroll not only safeguards against compliance issues but also builds trust among employees, who can be confident in the accuracy and reliability of their paychecks.
Improving Compliance With Regulatory Changes
The dynamic nature of tax laws and employment regulations makes compliance a moving target for many businesses. Automated payroll systems are equipped to handle these changes seamlessly by incorporating updates directly into their calculations and reporting features. This automation ensures that businesses remain compliant without needing to monitor and adjust to new regulations manually.
It also provides a significant advantage in risk management, as the system can alert businesses to potential compliance issues before they become problematic. By leveraging automation, companies can navigate the complex regulatory compliance landscape more quickly and confidently, minimizing exposure to penalties and legal issues.
Enhancing Employee Self-Service Capabilities
Implementing employee self-service capabilities through automation has transformed the employee experience regarding payroll and benefits management. These platforms empower employees to take charge of their personal information, view detailed pay histories, and access year-end tax documents independently. This level of transparency and control is a convenience for employees and fosters a sense of empowerment and engagement. Additionally, by decentralizing these tasks, HR departments are relieved of routine inquiries, allowing them to concentrate on strategic initiatives that contribute to the company's culture and growth. This shift improves operational efficiency and enhances the overall workplace environment by promoting a culture of transparency and self-sufficiency.
Facilitating Data-Driven Decision Making
In payroll and compliance, automation provides more than just operational efficiencies; it offers strategic insights. The data collected and analyzed by automated systems can inform various business decisions, from budgeting and financial planning to workforce development strategies. This wealth of data enables companies to identify trends, such as overtime usage or departmental labor costs, allowing for more informed decision-making. By knowing the financial implications of these trends, businesses can optimize their operations, forecast future costs more accurately, and strategically plan for growth. This level of analysis was previously unattainable with manual processes, highlighting how automation not only streamlines administrative tasks but also provides a strategic advantage.
Prioritising Cybersecurity In Automated Systems
An additional point to consider in the context of automation in payroll and compliance is the critical importance of prioritizing cybersecurity. As businesses rely increasingly on digital platforms to manage sensitive employee information and financial data, the potential for cyber threats grows. Implementing robust security measures, including encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security audits, is essential to protect this data from breaches.
Furthermore, educating employees about cybersecurity best practices can help mitigate risks associated with phishing scams and other digital threats. By prioritizing cybersecurity within automated payroll and compliance systems, businesses can safeguard their data, protect their employees' information, and maintain the integrity of their financial operations in the digital age.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the impact of automation on payroll and compliance is profound, offering businesses the opportunity to streamline processes, enhance accuracy, improve regulatory compliance, empower employees, and make informed decisions. As technology advances,
automation will likely play an increasingly central role in these areas, much like workforce management systems have become integral to managing modern workplaces. The benefits of automation in payroll and compliance are clear, promising a future where businesses can operate more efficiently, accurately, and compliantly, ultimately contributing to their overall success and sustainability.
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2.4 million funerals take place in the U.S. every year. If you're not in the funeral business, this is a sobering thought.
When a parent dies, the grief and pain you are dealing with can often be compounded by financial pressures if you are named as their executor.
In a way, it is flattering to be named a parent's executor. It means they trusted your intelligence, patience, and fairness enough to appoint you the overseer of their property after they are gone.
In other ways, it is overwhelming to consider the number of debts, unknown assets, and contentious relatives you will need to keep a record of.
If you are unsure what to do when a parent dies and you are the executor, take a deep breath, pick up a pen, and begin to approach your responsibilities in an organized, measured way.
What to Do When A Parent Dies and You Are the Executor:
Right after someone dies, there is usually a period of chaos. During this time, the estate needs to be opened, and the executor is appointed to avoid surprises by debt collectors or the IRS. You may have already been appointed the executor in a will.
No one should begin to take or distribute assets yet.
As the executor, it is your job to decide whether or not the will should go into probate, which is the official "proving" of the will in court. If the estate is larger, or if there is some disagreement about the will, probate may be necessary before you can begin carrying out your duties as the executor.
When you go through probate, you will have to file papers with the local probate court, prove that the will is valid, and present the court with a list of debts and assets. You should also explain how they should be distributed. The probate process could take anywhere from a few months to a year.
If your parent set up a living trust, you won't have to go through probate. The person named as the trust's successor will be able to distribute assets according to the will without having to go through the courts.
Your overall responsibility as the executor is to make sure that all debts and creditors of the deceased are paid off. Then the rest of their assets can be distributed according to their expressed wishes.
An executor is different from a power of attorney, who makes decisions about life-sustaining medical treatments while a loved one is still alive. Once they have passed, the power of attorney is no longer valid.
If there are any dependent children or pets, you will need to be certain that guardians are appointed in accordance with the decedent's wishes. These are often complicated things to handle, you might want to enlist the services if an expert right away. Thomas Church, Florida Will Contest Attorney is one of the best Estate Litigation experts in USA.
Get the Right Paperwork:
Your first duty as the executor is to find your parent's will. It could be filed away with important paperwork or in the hands of their attorney. It is usually necessary to file with a probate court, even if it is determined that probate is not necessary.
If there is a will in place, you will receive letters testamentary, which is a legal document authorizing you as the executor to take control over the decedent's estate. If there is no will, you will receive letters of administration. You can then begin your work as an executor.
You should also be certain that a pronouncement of death has been filed. This is a letter filled out by a medical professional stating where and when the decedent died.
A death certificate should become available after the funeral. You can obtain it from your funeral home, county registrar, or health department. About 10-15 copies should be sufficient to cover your administration needs.
You will need the certificate to prove the situation to insurance, credit card, and mortgage companies. If you find you need more copies, they can be obtained from the Department of Vital Records.
It is important to begin keeping a list of assets and liabilities before liquidating assets, paying off debts, and distributing funds among beneficiaries.
Acquiring credit card statements, mortgage statements, vehicle registrations, a social security card, and copies of insurance policies will also make the process smoother.
You should be sure to punch a hole in the decedent's driver's license and passport to help prevent fraud.
Giles & Robinson, P.A. explains that an ancillary administration can take six to nine months to finalize.
Hire Some Help:
An estate attorney, like Verhaeghe Law, can help you avoid mistakes that could cost you money in the long run. A financial consultant can help with asset transfers. An insurance agent can assist with claims forms to help make sure beneficiaries are paid.
The costs of the funeral, as well as getting the decedent's affairs in order, are taken from the estate. Don't be afraid to ask for help to make sure the process goes smoothly and does not end up making you liable for problems that may arise.
Stop Payments:
The decedent's estate is responsible for any debts that arise after death. Heirs and beneficiaries are not responsible, although some feel a sense of moral responsibility to pay them off.
You should notify all credit card companies, government agencies, utility companies, and mortgage banks of the death. This will help you to avoid late charges, and accounts will be transferred to decedent status. Doctors and other health professionals who may be owed fees should also be notified.
Check the decedent's credit card statements and be certain to cancel any payments with "auto-renewal," such as those for magazine subscriptions, AARP, AAA, and clubs. You may want to wait a month or two before closing the decedent's primary credit card so that you can view the companies that need to be notified.
Be certain to contact the three main credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and Transunion, immediately. They can flag the decedent's account so no one will try to steal their identity. It is also a good idea to check back two months later to be certain no fraud has occurred.
You should be sure to notify Social Security so they will stop payments and you will not be responsible to pay back posthumous checks.
If your parent was employed at the time of their death, you will need to call their employer. You can find out about any payments due to them, death benefits, life insurance policies, and beneficiary benefits.
Pay Off Debts:
Keep a list of how much your parent owed to mortgage companies, credit card companies, car payments, etc. You may need to liquidate assets, such as selling houses or cars, to pay off these debts.
Check with a CPA to see if your decedent's taxes have been paid. Money from the estate can be used to pay any money owed to the IRS.
You will also need to file taxes for your parent from the day of the year they passed until the date of death. If the estate is large, there may also be state or federal estate taxes to pay.
Consolidate Assets:
The executor should open a separate bank account for ongoing bills, as well as incoming checks. Keep valuables safe in a safety deposit box.
You should hire an assessor to see how much their property is worth. It is your duty as the executor to maintain the decedent's property until it is sold or bequeathed to the proper beneficiary.
Distribute Assets and Maintain Healthy Communication:
After all known debts are paid, you can begin distributing remaining funds to the family as specified in the will. It is important to get and keep a signed receipt from each beneficiary after they are paid.
Many arguments and breakdowns during the asset distribution process happen because folks feel that they are being overlooked or marginalized. It is important to let them know what the timeline is so that they will know exactly what is being done with the funds and when they can expect to receive funds that are due them.
It is a good idea to take some time before making investments with estate funds, as grieving can be an emotionally overwhelming time for most.
Close the Estate:
You may be required to file a petition in court before distributing assets and closing the estate. As the executor, your duty is complete.
Take Care of Yourself:
Losing a parent can be one of the most confusing, disheartening times in an individual's life. If you are overwhelmed by the complications of what to do when a parent dies and you are the executor, be sure to enlist the help of qualified professionals.
By keeping detailed records, liquidating assets, paying off debts, and distributing assets, you can be assured that your parent's affairs have been handled properly and you can begin taking steps toward the next chapter in your life.
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