Dear Valued Client,

Greetings,

 

Tax season 2010 is here, and we have already started processing tax returns.  There are a few issues that we wanted to share with you.

 

On January 22, 2010 a special tax relief provision was enacted.  Taxpayers who itemize deductions on the 2009 return can deduct cash (not property) contributions to Haiti Relief organizations.  Only cash contributions made to these charities after January 11, 2010, and before March 1, 2010, are eligible.  This includes contributions made by text message, check, credit card or debit card.  The contributions must be made specifically for the relief of victims in areas affected by the January 12 earthquake in Haiti.  These contributions can be deducted on either your 2009 or 2010 returns, but not both.

 

During 2009 social security recipients should have received a one-time payment of $250.  This Economic Recovery Payment is actually a reduction to any Making Work Pay credit that working individuals are entitled to receive on their 2009 tax return.  As part of your tax preparation we will need to know if you did receive a $250 payment from social security.  If you cannot recall if you received the $250 economic recovery payment you will need to contact your respective agency for confirmation before we can file your 2009 return.  The IRS will not be able to provide this information.  This will only affect you if you collect social security benefits, and had earned wages during 2009.

 

We have begun scheduling appointments in both the Orleans and Westport offices.  Tax appointments can be scheduled in Orleans on Tuesdays during the filing season.  You can also drop off tax return information in the Orleans office at any time.  The office is checked regularly, and Anna will be working there Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9-2.  Appointments are available in the Westport office on the remaining days as well as Saturdays and weeknights.  You can also mail your tax organizer and supporting documentation to our Westport address.  We will work on your tax return and phone or email you with a list of questions.  Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions while assembling your tax information.

 

We are looking forward to working with you in the next few months.


Sincerely,
Sherri Mahoney-Battles


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Circular 230 Disclosure, United States Treasury regulations effective June 21, 2005 require us to notify you that to the extent of this communication, or any of its attachments, contains or constitutes advice regarding any U.S. Federal tax issue, such advice is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by any person for the purpose of avoiding any penalties that can be imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.
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Sherri Mahoney-Battles
Phone: 800-774-1040
508-636-9829
Sherilyn@taxingmatters.com