Six Important Facts about Dependents and Exemptions
January 17, 2012
Washington, D.C. – Even though each individual tax return is different, some tax rules affect every person who may have to file a federal income tax return. These rules include dependents and exemptions.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has six important facts about dependents and exemptions that will help you file your 2011 tax return. [Read more]
Do I Need to File a Tax Return This Year?
January 16, 2012
Washington, D.C. – You are required to file a federal income tax return if your income is above a certain level, which varies depending on your filing status, age and the type of income you receive.
However, the Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that some people should file even if they aren’t required to because they may get a refund if they had taxes withheld or they may qualify for refundable credits.
State Officials Announce Record Decline in Tennessee Traffic Fatalities
January 14, 2012
Lowest Number of Traffic Fatalities since 1963
Nashville, TN – Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security officials today announced preliminary figures indicating the state has recorded the fewest number of traffic fatalities in 48 years. In 2011, there were 947 traffic-related deaths on Tennessee roadways, representing the lowest figure since 1963 when 941 people were killed as a result of a crash.
Last year’s preliminary number of 947 traffic deaths marks just the third time in 48 years vehicular fatalities have dipped below 1,000. Since 2006, Tennessee traffic fatalities have declined by 26.2 percent, including a drop in fatalities involving large trucks (34.5%), pedalcyclists (28.6%), motorcyclists (19.1%) and pedestrians (4.5%). [Read more]
Don’t be Scammed by Cyber Criminals
January 13, 2012
Washington, D.C. – The Internal Revenue Service receives thousands of reports each year from taxpayers who receive suspicious emails, phone calls, faxes or notices claiming to be from the IRS. Many of these scams fraudulently use the IRS name or logo as a lure to make the communication appear more authentic and enticing.
The goal of these scams – known as phishing – is to trick you into revealing your personal and financial information. The scammers can then use your information – like your Social Security number, bank account or credit card numbers – to commit identity theft or steal your money.
Housing Program for Teachers, Law Enforcement, Firefighters, and EMTs
January 12, 2012
Washington, D.C. – Law enforcement officers, pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade teachers and firefighters/emergency medical technicians can contribute to community revitalization while becoming homeowners through HUD’s Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers a substantial incentive in the form of a discount of 50% from the list price of the home. In return you must commit to live in the property for 36 months as your sole residence. [Read more]
Tennessee Announces Clean Tennessee Energy Grant Program and Energy Efficiency Projects
January 11, 2012
Projects Benefit Both the Environment and Bottom Line
Nashville, TN – Tennessee Deputy Governor Claude Ramsey, Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau and General Services Commissioner Steven G. Cates today announced a series of energy efficiency projects in state government, as well as the new Clean Tennessee Energy Grant Program.
The state projects, as well projects for other public and private entities that will be funded through the grant program, are designed to both increase cost savings and decrease emissions.
“Increasing energy efficiency in state government will help us be even better stewards of both taxpayer dollars and our environment,” Haslam said. “These projects will benefit Tennesseans on both fronts, and I look forward to implementing additional projects as we move forward.” [Read more]
Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam unveils Legislative Agenda to move Tennessee Forward
January 11, 2012
Bills highlight governor’s focus on jobs, education, efficient government and lower taxes
Nashville, TN – Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam today announced his priorities for the 2012 legislative session during a press conference where he was joined by legislators in the Old Supreme Court Chamber of the Capitol.
His legislative agenda is designed to move Tennessee forward by supporting his goal to make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs through economic development efforts, meaningful education reform, a more efficient and effective state government and improved public safety. [Read more]
Ten Tips to Help You Choose a Tax Preparer
January 11, 2012
Washington, D.C. – Many people look for help from professionals when it’s time to file their tax return. If you use a paid tax preparer to file your return this year, the IRS urges you to choose that preparer wisely. Even if a return is prepared by someone else, the taxpayer is legally responsible for what’s on it. So, it’s very important to choose your tax preparer carefully.
This year, the IRS wants to remind taxpayers to use a preparer who will sign the returns they prepare and enter their required Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). [Read more]
New Year’s Holiday Weekend Traffic Fatalities Decline
January 10, 2012
Lowest Number of Traffic Deaths on Record during New Year’s Period
Nashville, TN – Preliminary reports indicate two people were killed during the New Year’s holiday weekend, compared with six fatalities during last year’s holiday period. Statistics for the 2011-2012 New Year’s holiday reflect the time period from 6:00pm, Friday, December 30th, 2011, to midnight Monday, January 2nd, 2012.
There were two fatal crashes during the 2011-2012 New Year’s holiday period. Both were single vehicle crashes, and both victims were not wearing safety restraints. Alcohol was a factor in one of the crashes. [Read more]
IRS Offers Top 10 Tax-Time Tips
January 9, 2012
Washington, D.C. – The income tax filing season has begun and important tax documents should be arriving in your mailbox. Even though your return is not due until April, you can make tax time easier on yourself with an early start.
Here are the Internal Revenue Service’s top 10 tips to ensure a smooth tax-filing process.
1. Gather your records Round up any documents you’ll need when filing your taxes: receipts, canceled checks and other documents that support income or deductions you’re claiming on your return. [Read more]
