Every year the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) releases its list of tax scams, spotlighting the myriad ways that people try to separate you from your money.¹
The “Dirty Dozen”
Identity Theft
Using your personal information, an identity thief can file a fraudulent tax return and claim a refund. If you’ve been a victim of stolen personal information, you can contact the IRS so the agency can protect your tax account.
Phishing
Be wary of fake emails or websites looking to steal your personal information. If you receive a request for information that appears to be from the IRS, contact the IRS directly to verify the request.
Telephone Scams
Scammers will contact you pretending to be from the IRS. They may say that you are due a large refund or owe money (even threatening arrest or revocation of your driver’s license). If you receive such a call, call the IRS and contact the Federal Trade Commission using their “FTC Complaint Assistant” at FTC.gov.
Inflated Refund Claims
Tax preparers promising inflated returns may ask clients to sign a blank return or charge fees based on a percentage of the refund. Beware of phony storefronts or preparers advertising through word-of-mouth to community groups where trust is high.
Return Preparer Fraud
Dishonest preparers may use tax preparation as an excuse to steal your personal information, so only use a preparer who signs the return and has an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number.
Hiding Income Offshore
The IRS has strengthened its ability to identify offshore holdings, and the failure to report them will be costly.
Impersonation of Charitable Organizations
Fraudulent charities raise money or obtain private information from individuals looking to help. Donate only to recognized charities, and beware of charities whose names sound similar to the well-known ones.
False Income, Expenses or Exemptions
Falsifying your tax return is a high risk, low reward exercise, especially in this age of Big Data.
Frivolous Arguments
Ignore promoters of frivolous arguments that promise you tax relief. Not only are they expected to fail, but you may be subjected to penalties and possible jail time.
Falsely Padding Deductions or Returns
Dishonestly reporting deductions to reduce tax bills or inflate refunds may open you up to penalties and prosecution.
Abusive Tax Structures
If someone is proposing to eliminate or substantially reduce your taxes through complex tax structures, walk away—they may be offering nothing more than illegal tax evasion.
Excessive Claims for Business Tax Credits
This happens when taxpayers or their tax preparers improperly claim the research credit or the fuel tax credit, which is generally limited to off-highway uses, such as farming.
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How does the University of California Retirement Plan (UCRP) define service credit for members, and how does it impact retirement benefits? In what ways can University of California employees potentially enhance their service credit, thereby influencing their retirement income upon leaving the University of California?
Service Credit in UCRP: Service credit is essential in determining retirement eligibility and the amount of retirement benefits for University of California employees. It is based on the period of employment in an eligible position and covered compensation during that time. Employees earn service credit proportionate to their work time, and unused sick leave can convert to additional service credit upon retirement. Employees can enhance their service credit through methods like purchasing service credit for unpaid leaves or sabbatical periods(University of Californi…).
Regarding the contribution limits for the University of California’s defined contribution plans, how do these limits for 2024 compare to previous years, and what implications do they have for current employees of the University of California in their retirement planning strategies? How can understanding these limits lead University of California employees to make more informed decisions about their retirement savings?
Contribution Limits for UC Defined Contribution Plans in 2024: Contribution limits for defined contribution plans, such as the University of California's DC Plan, often adjust yearly due to IRS regulations. Increases in these limits allow employees to maximize their retirement savings. For 2024, employees can compare the current limits with previous years to understand how much they can contribute tax-deferred, potentially increasing their long-term savings and tax advantages(University of Californi…).
What are the eligibility criteria for the various death benefits associated with the University of California Retirement Plan? Specifically, how does being married or in a domestic partnership influence the eligibility of beneficiaries for University of California employees' retirement and survivor benefits?
Eligibility for UCRP Death Benefits: Death benefits under UCRP depend on factors like length of service, eligibility to retire, and marital or domestic partnership status. Being married or in a registered domestic partnership allows a spouse or partner to receive survivor benefits, which might include lifetime income. In some cases, other beneficiaries like children or dependent parents may be eligible(University of Californi…).
In the context of retirement planning for University of California employees, what are the tax implications associated with rolling over benefits from their defined benefit plan to an individual retirement account (IRA)? How do these rules differ depending on whether the employee chooses a direct rollover or receives a distribution first before rolling it over into an IRA?
Tax Implications of Rolling Over UCRP Benefits: Rolling over benefits from UCRP to an IRA can offer tax advantages. A direct rollover avoids immediate taxes, while receiving a distribution first and rolling it into an IRA later may result in withholding and potential penalties. UC employees should consult tax professionals to ensure they follow the IRS rules that suit their financial goals(University of Californi…).
What are the different payment options available to University of California retirees when selecting their retirement income, and how does choosing a contingent annuitant affect their monthly benefit amount? What factors should University of California employees consider when deciding on the best payment option for their individual financial situations?
Retirement Payment Options: UC retirees can choose from various payment options, including a single life annuity or joint life annuity with a contingent annuitant. Selecting a contingent annuitant reduces the retiree's monthly income but provides benefits for another person after their death. Factors like age, life expectancy, and financial needs should guide this decision(University of Californi…).
What steps must University of California employees take to prepare for retirement regarding their defined contribution accounts, and how can they efficiently consolidate their benefits? In what ways does the process of managing multiple accounts influence the overall financial health of employees during their retirement?
Preparation for Retirement: UC employees nearing retirement must evaluate their defined contribution accounts and consider consolidating their benefits for easier management. Properly managing multiple accounts ensures they can maximize their income and minimize fees, thus contributing to their financial health during retirement(University of Californi…).
How do the rules around capital accumulation payments (CAP) impact University of California employees, and what choices do they have regarding their payment structures upon retirement? What considerations might encourage a University of California employee to opt for a lump-sum cashout versus a traditional monthly pension distribution?
Capital Accumulation Payments (CAP): CAP is a supplemental benefit that certain UCRP members receive upon leaving the University. UC employees can choose between a lump sum cashout or a traditional monthly pension. Those considering a lump sum might prefer immediate access to funds, but the traditional option offers ongoing, stable income(University of Californi…)(University of Californi…).
As a University of California employee planning for retirement, what resources are available for understanding and navigating the complexities of the retirement benefits offered? How can University of California employees make use of online platforms or contact university representatives for personalized assistance regarding their retirement plans?
Resources for UC Employees' Retirement Planning: UC offers extensive online resources, such as UCnet and UCRAYS, where employees can manage their retirement plans. Personalized assistance is also available through local benefits offices and the UC Retirement Administration Service Center(University of Californi…).
What unique challenges do University of California employees face with regard to healthcare and retirement planning, particularly in terms of post-retirement health benefits? How do these benefits compare to other state retirement systems, and what should employees of the University of California be aware of when planning for their medical expenses after retirement?
Healthcare and Retirement Planning Challenges: Post-retirement healthcare benefits are crucial for UC employees, especially as healthcare costs rise. UC’s retirement health benefits offer significant support, often more comprehensive than other state systems. However, employees should still prepare for potential gaps and rising costs in their post-retirement planning(University of Californi…).
How can University of California employees initiate contact to learn more about their retirement benefits, and what specific information should they request when reaching out? What methods of communication are recommended for efficient resolution of inquiries related to their retirement plans within the University of California system?
Contacting UC for Retirement Information: UC employees can contact the UC Retirement Administration Service Center for assistance with retirement benefits. It is recommended to request information on service credits, pension benefits, and health benefits. Communication via the UCRAYS platform ensures secure and efficient resolution of inquiries(University of Californi…).