Tips on Choosing a Tax Preparer

1. You should always ask if the tax preparer has an IRS preparer tax identification number (PTIN). 2. Important credentials are certified public accountant (CPA) or/and an enrolled agent (EA). 3. It is best practice to obtain a written agreement for service fees. 4. A tax preparer should… Be reachable during tax season. Be up-to-date.…

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IRS Releases 2018 Form W-4 and Updated Withholding Calculator

The IRS has released a new version of Form W-4, as well as a new withholding calculator to help taxpayers adjust their 2018 tax withholding. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made major changes to the tax law and it is important to ensure that you are having the right amount of tax withheld from…

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Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week: January 29 – February 2, 2018

DAY 5 – How are the IRS and state revenue officials protecting taxpayer data today? Password protocols have been enhanced for individual and tax professional software. The IRS is requesting additional information from tax professionals who contact them to discuss client information. The additional information may include SSN, date of birth or home address.  According…

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Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week: January 29 – February 2, 2018

DAY 4 – Reasons to Use Direct Deposit for your Tax Refund Nowadays, using direct deposit is the fastest and safest way to receive a tax refund. Taxpayers who option out of e-file and choose to file a paper return can still use direct deposit as their refund method. Direct deposit is beneficial because it…

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Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week: January 29 – February 2, 2018

DAY 3 – How Do You Protect Yourself From Identity Theft? TREAT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION LIKE CASH, don’t leave it laying around.  By taking a few simple steps, you can reduce your risk of identity theft. Do not routinely carry your social security card or any type of document with your social security number. Keep…

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Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week: January 29 – February 2, 2018

DAY 2 What To Do If You Become A Victim Of Tax Identity Theft Respond immediately to any IRS notice.  Call the IRS at 800-829-1040 to verify the notice received of tax identify theft or your tax professional will call on your behalf with Power of Attorney. When the IRS confirms they sent the notice, an…

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Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week: January 29 – February 2, 2018

The 2017 tax filing season is officially here.  Fortis is helping to raise awareness on tax identity theft so that you do not become a victim. We also know identity theft is a frustrating process for victims.  If you become a victim, we are committed to resolving your case as quickly as possible.   DAY…

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Fortis Perspectives – November 2017

FROM THE DESK OF OUR DIRECTOR OF TAX   Year-End Tax Planning In the Wake of Tax Reform. As you have undoubtedly seen in the news, the U.S. House and Senate have each released their respective versions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act over the last few weeks. The House bill presented many challenges for…

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