How to pick a tax preparer this season
IRS guidelines help you choose a qualified preparer. Beware contingent fees tied to refunds and firms outsourcing to unknown workers. Verify credentials, contactability, privacy safeguards, and demand a signed return with the preparer’s identifying number and a copy for review.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
IRS
Delays in 1099 forms ripple through brokerage houses
The Baltimore Sun reports brokerages are pushing back mailing 1099 forms as tax law changes and AMT rules complicate reporting. Firms like Morgan Stanley plan later 1099 mailings, with extensions possible though not expected to last long. Wachovia cites increased complexity since 2003 tax law changes, boosting corrected 1099s nationwide.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Bob Cassel
Baltimore-Washington Financial Advisors
Columbia
IRS
Patricia McClanahan
Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association
Travis Larson
Securities Industry Group
McClanahan
Morgan Stanley
AMT
Cassel
Wachovia Securities
Wachovia
Julia Flenner
Balance transfers hurt credit and future loans
Jeff Brown argues that moving debt among cards signals risk to lenders, can lower credit scores, and jeopardize mortgages or auto loans. A temporary fix may work if a six month zero interest transfer is chosen, fees checked, and debt reduced promptly. Avoid new charges and keep few old ecards for a stable report.
E-filing reduces tax mistakes and speeds refunds
Devine notes e filing prevents costly errors with processing within 10 business days while paper returns may take two months. Colahan from SS C Lawrence office says electronic filing is more accurate, convenient, and cost effective and provides verifiable proof of submission and receipt for loans or other needs.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Devine
IRS
Colahan
Lawrence
Ss&C’s
Business editor contact for Mark Fagan
Business editor Mark Fagan can be reached at 832-7188 for assignment questions or newsroom coordination.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Mark Fagan
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