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TOPICS / TAX

IRS extends e-signature authorization for 6 months

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the IRS issued guidance extending the temporary authorization to issue a number of IRS forms using electronic signatures from June 30, 2021, through Dec. 31, 2021.

IRS to automatically issue refunds on tax-free unemployment benefits

To help taxpayers who might otherwise have been required to file amended income tax returns, the IRS announced that, beginning in May and continuing into the summer, it will automatically issue to eligible taxpayers refunds of income tax paid on 2020 unemployment benefits.

IRS provides details on April 15 postponement

The IRS issued a notice providing more details and clarification of its previously announced postponement of the April 15 tax deadline for individuals. The notice extends the date for making 2020 IRA contributions; however, it does not extend the date for estimated tax payments.

IRS postpones April 15 deadline

The IRS announced that it is postponing the April 15 deadline for individual tax returns and payments. The postponement applies only to individual taxpayers. Formal guidance is expected in the near future.

AICPA recommends Circular 230 changes

In response to a request for comments about planned revisions to Circular 230, Regulations Governing Practice Before the IRS, the AICPA sent a letter making recommendations to the director of the IRS’s Office of Professional Responsibility.

AICPA requests tax deadline postponements until June 15

In a letter, the AICPA asked the IRS to postpone until June 15, 2021, all 2020 federal income tax and information returns and payments (e.g., extension and estimated payments) originally due April 15, 2021.

Beware of identity theft scam involving unemployment benefits

The IRS warned taxpayers that identity thieves are fraudulently claiming state unemployment benefits using stolen taxpayer identities. Here is what taxpayers should do if they receive a Form 1099-G reporting state unemployment benefits they did not receive.

IRS explains extended payroll tax due dates

The IRS issued updated procedures for the deferred employee portion of employment tax payments, which were further extended from April 30, 2021, to Dec. 31, 2021, by year-end legislation.

Tax filing season to start Feb. 12, IRS announces

The IRS announced that it will start accepting 2020 tax returns on Feb. 12, a later date than usual. The delay stems from programming changes needed to account for year-end tax legislation.

FROM THIS MONTH'S ISSUE

Flip out with the latest Tech Q&A

The September Technology Q&A column shows how to create dynamic to-do lists with Excel's checkboxes and also how to set up multifactor authentication texts that don't rely on phones. Flip through both items and view a video walkthrough in our digital format.