Anthony Sykes & Company

          Some are surprised to find out that their Social Security benefits can be taxed. This would apply to survivor, disability benefits, or monthly retirement income. Supplemental Security Income ( SSI ) cannot be taxed. The final outcome depends on the individual’s total income and filing status.           For example, someone who files as “Single” would have a lower threshold to meet for tax responsibility, than those who are “Married, Filing Jointly”. The greater the combined amount of Social Security and other income, the more their benefits will be taxed. It is easier than ever to create different streams of income, and this can change your tax situation. If you have a pension, a job in the gig economy (rideshare driver, food on demand delivery), or are active with cryptocurrency, to the Internal Revenue Service ( IRS ) this is all income. If you are not sure if you need to pay taxes on your benefits, talk to your Qualified Tax Professional before May 17.

          It is easier to create different streams of income than ever before. With that ability comes certain obligations. Primarily, you must understand your tax responsibilities. All income is subject to tax. That includes part time, temporary, and side jobs. The payment may be in cash, property, goods, or even virtual currency. All of it must be reported, this means that a good record keeping system must be used during the year.           In addition, every employee must be classified correctly. This does not mean that the employer decides who is an employee and who is an independent contractor. An accurate classification is based on an examination of how the employer influences the work being done and how it is accomplished. When this is done correctly, all parties understand what is required from a tax standpoint. An employee will have income taxes withheld according to what is stated on the Form W-4 . A gig worker who is an independent contractor may be able to write off some

The Internal Revenue Service ( IRS ) will still initiate communication by written letter. Never using Social Media or a text message. There is always a specific reason for the letter, like informing the Taxpayer of a large Tax amount that is due, there is a question about the Tax Return, or that the Tax Return has been changed by the IRS . What should you do if you receive a letter like this?       Never ignore communication from the IRS . The letter will clearly state what needs to be done. There is no need to panic, reading the letter closely usually helps you to get a clear understanding about what has happened and if anything has changed. Always keep a copy of any letters or notices, and put them with your important tax documents. They may be needed later. If the letter informs you of a tax amount that must be paid, there are a variety of payment options . Pay as much as you can, even if it is not the full amount. However, if you are asked to pay in a specific way, like with a