Episode Title: EITC Awareness Day: 50 Years of Helping Working Families

Description: The IRS and national partners are celebrating 50 years of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)! Learn if you qualify for this valuable tax break, which can put thousands of dollars back in your pocket. We'll cover eligibility, how to claim it, and new changes for this tax season. Don't miss out!

Show Notes:

• EITC 50th Anniversary: The IRS and partners launched EITC Awareness Day to highlight this important credit.
• Who's Eligible? Income limits, citizenship requirements, and more. Use the EITC Assistant tool to check your eligibility.
• How Much? The average EITC refund was $2,743 in 2023, with a maximum of $7,830 for families with children in 2024.
• How to Claim: IRS Free File, Direct File, tax professionals, and free VITA/TCE sites.
• New This Year: E-filing with duplicate dependents is now easier with an IP PIN.
• Refund Timing: Expect EITC/ACTC refunds by March 3rd if you file early and choose direct deposit.
• Resources:
• IRS EITC Central: [Link to EITC Central]
• EITC Assistant: [Link to EITC Assistant]
• VITA/TCE Locator: [Link to VITA/TCE Locator]
• Publication 596: [Link to Publication 596]

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Episode Title: Tax Time Made Easy: Top Tips from the IRS

Description: Feeling overwhelmed by tax season? The IRS just released their top 6 tips to make filing your 2024 return smoother. We break down what you need to know, from gathering documents to free filing options. Don't miss out on potential refunds and avoid headaches!

Show Notes:

• IRS released 6 tips to simplify tax filing (IR-2025-19, Jan. 30, 2025)
• Key Documents: Social Security numbers, bank info, W-2s, 1099s, 1098s, digital asset records, 1095-A, IRS letters.
• Report All Income: Online sales, investments, part-time work, self-employment, app-based services.
• File Electronically: Faster refunds, less errors.
• Free Filing Options:
• IRS Free File (income under $84,000)
• Direct File (25 states, expanded support)
• Free File Fillable Forms (for those comfortable with taxes)
• VITA/TCE (free help for eligible taxpayers)
• MilTax (military community)
• Choosing a Filing Method: Self-file, online services, tax professional (check credentials).
• IRS Online Resources: IRS.gov, Interactive Tax Assistant, IRS2Go app, social media.

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Episode Title: Tax Season is Open! What You Need to Know for 2025

Description: The IRS has officially opened the 2025 tax filing season! Millions of returns are already in, and the deadline is April 15th. We break down key dates, free filing options, and how to avoid scams. Get your taxes done right this year!

Show Notes:

• The 2025 tax filing season is officially open as of January 27, 2025.
• The IRS expects over 140 million individual tax returns for tax year 2024.
• The filing deadline is April 15th.
• Free Filing Options:
• IRS Free File (for those with income of $84,000 or less)
• IRS Direct File (available in 25 participating states)
• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
• Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
• MilTax (for military members and some veterans)
• Key Tips:
• File electronically and choose direct deposit for faster refunds.
• Wait for all income documents before filing.
• Use a trusted tax professional.
• Be aware of tax scams.
• New IRS Improvements:
• Enhanced IRS Online Account features.
• New scam alert banner on the Online Account.
• Redesigned notices.
• Mobile-adaptive tax forms.
• Virtual assistants for refund and other questions.
• Refunds: Most refunds issued in less than 21 days, but don't rely on a specific date. EITC/ACTC refunds may be delayed until after mid-February.

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Episode Title: IRS Updates Energy Tax Credit FAQs: What You Need to Know

Description: The IRS has released updated Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit and the Residential Clean Energy Property Credit. This episode breaks down the key changes from the previous guidance, helping you understand how these tax credits can benefit your home improvement projects. We'll cover the significant updates and point you to where you can find more information.

Show Notes:

• IRS Announcement: IR-2025-17, released January 17, 2025
• Updated FAQs: Found in Fact Sheet 2025-01 (PDF)
• Supersedes: Previous FAQs in Fact Sheet 2024-15 (PDF), released April 17, 2024
• Key Takeaway: Significant changes have been made to both the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit and the Residential Clean Energy Property Credit sections.
• Reliance Information: More details on reliance are available in the updated FAQs.

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Episode Title: IRS Clarifies Tax Rules for State Paid Family & Medical Leave

Episode Description: The IRS has released new guidance (Rev. Rul. 2025-4) clarifying the tax treatment of state-mandated paid family and medical leave programs. This episode breaks down what employers and employees in states like D.C. need to know about contributions, benefits, and reporting requirements. Are you impacted? Listen to find out!

Show Notes:

• IRS Guidance: IR-2025-16, issued January 15, 2025, provides clarity on the tax implications of state paid family and medical leave programs.
• Key Takeaways:
• Employer contributions are generally deductible as excise tax.
• Employee contributions may be deductible as state income tax (if itemizing).
• State paid family leave benefits are taxable income.
• State paid medical leave benefits are taxable income to the extent of employer contributions.
• Transition relief is available for 2025.
• Who is Impacted: Employers and employees in states with mandatory paid family and medical leave programs (like D.C.).
• IRS Revenue Ruling: Rev. Rul. 2025-4 (PDF)
• Submit Comments: The IRS is seeking feedback on additional scenarios. Find the ruling and submit comments at https://www.regulations.gov (search for IRS-2025-0012) or by mail (address provided in the show).

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Episode Title: IRS Deadline Alert: Wage Statements & 1099s Due January 31st!

Description: Heads up, business owners! The IRS is reminding everyone that wage statements (W-2s) and certain information returns (like 1099-NECs) are due January 31st. Don't get hit with penalties! We break down what you need to file, how to file electronically, and what to do if you need an extension. Listen now to stay compliant!

Show Notes:

• Key Deadline: January 31st for filing wage statements and certain information returns.
• Forms Due:
• Form W-2 (Wage and Tax Statement) and W-3 (Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements) to the Social Security Administration.
• Form 1099-NEC (Nonemployee Compensation) to the IRS.
• Recipient Copies: Also due January 31st. Check form instructions for specific dates.
• E-Filing: Required for 10+ information returns. Use the IRS's IRIS system for free 1099 e-filing.
• Extensions: Form 8809 for a 30-day extension (not automatic). Extension for furnishing copies to recipients must be requested via fax.
• Penalties: Avoid penalties by filing accurately and on time.
• Resources:
• IRS E-file information returns page
• IRS Information Returns Intake System (IRIS)
• Form 8809, Application for Extension of Time to File Information Returns
• IRS Information Return Penalties page
• IRS Forms, instructions and publications search tool

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Episode Title: IRS Fast Tracks Tax Dispute Resolution with New Pilot Programs

Description: The IRS is making it easier to resolve tax disputes! Learn about the new Fast Track Settlement pilot programs designed to speed up and simplify Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). We break down the key changes, including issue-by-issue eligibility, clearer denial explanations, and a "last chance" option. Tune in to see how these changes could benefit you.

Show Notes:

• IRS announces three pilot programs to improve Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
• Focus on Fast Track Settlement (FTS) and Post-Appeals Mediation (PAM)
• Key changes:
• Issue-by-issue FTS eligibility
• Executive approval required for FTS/PAM denials
• Clear explanations for FTS/PAM denials
• "Last Chance FTS" pilot for SB/SE taxpayers
• FTS participation no longer precludes PAM eligibility
• Traditional appeals process still available
• Inquiries: ap.adr.programs@irs.gov
• Feedback: Announcement 2025-06 PDF

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Episode Title: IRS Advisory Council Gets a Refresh: Meet the New Members for 2025

Description: The IRS has announced 18 new members for its Advisory Council (IRSAC) for 2025! We break down who these individuals are, what the IRSAC does, and why it matters for taxpayers. From tax professionals to legal aid experts, this diverse group will provide crucial feedback to the IRS. Tune in to learn more!

Show Notes:

• IRS Announcement: The IRS has appointed 18 new members to the Internal Revenue Service Advisory Council (IRSAC) for 2025 (IR-2025-13).
• What is the IRSAC? A public forum established in 1953 where IRS officials and public representatives discuss tax administration issues.
• Purpose: Provides feedback, observations, and recommendations to the IRS.
• 2025 Chair: Christine Freeland, President of Christine Z. Freeland, CPA PC.
• New Members: A diverse group representing taxpayers, tax professionals, businesses, and more. (List a few key names/roles)
• Key Areas of Representation: Taxpaying public, tax professionals, small and large businesses, tax-exempt entities, and information reporting interests.
• Annual Report: The IRSAC will submit its annual report in November 2025.

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