Getting Married?

Tax checklist for newlyweds
Summertime is common time for wedding bells to ring, and newlyweds can make their tax filing easier by doing a few things now. A taxpayer’s marital status as of December 31 determines their tax filing options for the entire year, but that’s not all newlyweds need to know.

Report a name change
Report any name changes to the Social Security Administration. The name on a person’s tax return must match what’s on file at the SSA. Otherwise, it could delay any tax refund. Taxpayers should file Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card with their updated information. It’s available on SSA.gov, by phone at 800-772-1213 or at a local SSA office.

Update address
Notify their local post office, employers and the IRS of any address change. To officially change their mailing address with the IRS, taxpayers must compete and submit Form 8822, Change of Address. See page 2 of the form for detailed instructions.

Check withholding
Newly married couples must give their employers a new Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Certificate, within 10 days. If both people work, this could move them into a higher tax bracket or be affected by the additional Medicare tax. The Tax Withholding Estimator on IRS.gov can be used to check withholding and provide tips for completing a new Form W-4.

Review filing status
Married people can choose to file their federal income taxes jointly or separately. While filing jointly is usually more beneficial, it’s best to figure the tax both ways to find out which makes the most sense.

More information

Business Tax Account @ IRS.GOV

The IRS continues to expand its online capabilities with the Business Tax Account tool, giving a growing number of eligible business taxpayers a quicker and easier way to access tax information online and meet their tax obligations. Sole proprietors, individual partners of partnerships, individual shareholders of S corporations and C corporations should check if they’re eligible to use Business Tax Account.

Features and access depend on the business structure and the individual’s role in the business. Business taxpayers can make electronic payments, set up a future payment or cancel a scheduled payment. They can also access:

  • Balance due.
  • Payment history.
  • Authorization requests from a lender submitted through Income Verification Express Service.
  • Transcripts for the business’s tax return, tax account, record of return and entity.
  • Digital copies of select IRS notices.
  • Business name and address on file.
  • Tax compliance report or a tax certificate for award use.

For more on the most recent updates on BTA, check out the December 2024 Fact Sheet on Business Tax Account.

Where’s My Refund?

The IRS makes it simple to track your tax refund. Simply go to the refund tracker at https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund and input your SSN, your filing status, and your expected refund amount. The Franchise Tax Board of CA also offers a refund tracker. Simply go to https://www.ftb.ca.gov/refund/ and provide your SSN, the numbers to your address, your zip code, and the expected refund. Although turnaround times vary, you can typically expect your CA refund in a week to 10 days, and your IRS refund in 10 days to 3 weeks.

2025 Tax Season: Key Updates

Tax season opens 1/27/25

As we step into the new year, it’s time to gear up for the 2025 tax season, which officially begins on Monday, January 27. This year’s tax season promises to be more taxpayer-friendly than ever, thanks to the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) historic modernization efforts. Let’s take a closer look at what’s new and how it can benefit you as you prepare your tax return for the 2024 tax year.

Enhanced Tools and Accessibility

The IRS has made significant strides to enhance the tax-filing process for individuals and families across the nation. Some of the notable improvements include:

  • Expanded Digital Tools: Taxpayers can now access more of their tax account information using advanced text and voice virtual assistants. These tools are designed to provide real-time assistance and improve user experience.
  • Improved Online Accounts: The IRS Individual Online Account has been upgraded with expanded features, allowing users to manage their taxes more effectively. This includes easier access to payment options, account history, and personalized notifications.
  • Mobile-Friendly Tax Forms: Dozens of tax forms are now accessible on mobile devices, making it easier than ever to review and complete your forms on the go.
  • Heightened Scam Alerts: With scams and schemes targeting taxpayers on the rise, the IRS has expanded its alert system to help individuals identify and avoid potential threats.

In-Person Assistance and Customer Support

For those who prefer in-person support, the IRS is increasing its hours at Taxpayer Assistance Centers nationwide. These centers provide personalized help to address your tax-related questions and concerns. Additionally, the IRS aims to maintain high service levels on its main taxpayer phone lines, with a goal of achieving an 85% level of service.

“These taxpayer-focused improvements we’ve done so far are important, but they are just the beginning of what the IRS needs to do,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “More can be done with continued investment in the nation’s tax system.”

Preparing for the April 15 Deadline

The IRS anticipates receiving over 140 million individual tax returns for the 2024 tax year. With the federal deadline set for Tuesday, April 15, now is the time to start organizing your documents and planning your filing strategy.

The Importance of Trusted Tax Professionals

More than half of all tax returns are expected to be filed with the assistance of a tax professional this year. Using a trusted tax professional can help ensure that your return is accurate and filed on time while reducing your risk of falling victim to scams.

At our accounting office, we’re committed to helping you navigate this tax season with confidence. From answering your questions to ensuring your compliance with the latest tax laws, our team of experienced professionals is here to make the process as smooth as possible.

Stay Ahead This Tax Season

The IRS’s modernization efforts are a testament to the agency’s commitment to making tax filing more efficient and secure for everyone. Whether you’re filing independently or working with a professional, taking advantage of these new tools and resources can help you stay ahead this tax season.

Have questions or need assistance? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll make this tax season your most seamless one yet.

Protect your information: Sign up for IP PIN

The IRS urges taxpayers who plan to file early in 2025 to sign up for an IP PIN before Saturday, Nov. 23. The IRS reminds taxpayers they can still sign up for an IRS Online Account. Taking these steps will make it easier for taxpayers to protect their information and avoid refund delays by accepting certain e-filed tax returns that claim dependents who have already been claimed on another taxpayer’s return. This modification will benefit filers claiming important tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.