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Tax Services in Oxnard California

Contractor holding hard hat.

Why Is Bookkeeping Important for Independent Contractors?

Independent contractors, whether they are freelancers, consultants, or gig workers, enjoy the freedom and flexibility that come with being their own bosses. While autonomy is a significant perk, it also comes with the responsibility of managing various aspects of their business, including bookkeeping. 

Financial Clarity

Maintaining accurate and organized financial records is paramount for independent contractors. Bookkeeping provides a clear and comprehensive overview of income, expenses, and overall financial health. 

This clarity is invaluable when making business decisions, planning for taxes, or assessing the feasibility of taking on new projects.

Tax Compliance

Independent contractors are responsible for handling their own taxes, including income tax and self-employment tax. 

Proper bookkeeping ensures that all income is accounted for, and expenses are accurately documented, making the tax filing process smoother and reducing the risk of errors. Timely and accurate tax reporting is crucial to avoid penalties and legal complications.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

Effective bookkeeping allows independent contractors to create realistic budgets and financial plans. By tracking income and expenses, contractors can identify patterns, allocate resources strategically, and set achievable financial goals. 

This proactive approach enhances financial stability and facilitates long-term business growth.

Legal Compliance

Maintaining meticulous financial records is not just about taxes; it also helps independent contractors stay compliant with various legal requirements. 

From business licenses to contractual agreements, having organized financial documentation ensures that contractors can easily access the information needed to fulfill legal obligations and navigate regulatory requirements.

Business Growth and Funding Opportunities

For independent contractors looking to expand their business or explore funding opportunities, organized financial records are essential. 

Lenders and investors often require a thorough understanding of a business’s financial health before providing support. Bookkeeping ensures that contractors can present a clear and compelling case for business growth or investment.

Wrapping It Up

Bookkeeping is a cornerstone of success for independent contractors. It goes beyond mere record-keeping; it is a proactive and strategic tool that supports financial stability, legal compliance, and business growth. I

ndependent contractors who prioritize bookkeeping invest in the long-term success and sustainability of their ventures, ensuring they can navigate the complexities of self-employment with confidence and efficiency.

JT Tax Services: Taxes Made Easy

When it comes to taxes, knowledge is power. That’s why at At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of all applicable tax laws and regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California, contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services. Feel free to contact us today!

Closeup of person using their credit card in front of a laptop illustrates blog "4 Tips To Prevent Charity Fraud"

4 Tips To Prevent Charity Fraud

With the holiday season around the corner, scammers are getting ready to prey on the good-hearted nature of people looking to donate to a worthy cause. The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect yourself from charity fraud. In this post, we will share some essential tips that will help you prevent charity fraud and ensure that your donations go to the right place.

Research the Charity

One of the best ways to prevent charity fraud is to do your research. Look up the organization online and read reviews from other donors. If you can’t find any information or the charity is brand new, get in touch with them directly. Ask questions about how they use the donations and if they have any documentation that can demonstrate their legitimacy. If they are genuine, they will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.

Be Wary of High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Some charity scammers are experts at using high-pressure sales tactics to guilt-trip you into donating. If you feel uncomfortable or pressured into donating, it’s important to take a step back and do not make any commitments on the spot. A legitimate charity will never use high-pressure tactics to get donations.

Check for the Charity’s Registration and Tax ID Number

A legitimate charity will always be registered with the government and have a tax ID number. You can check this information yourself by doing a quick online search or contacting the appropriate authorities. If the charity is not registered or can’t provide you with a tax ID number, it’s a red flag that they may not be legitimate.

The IRS has a Tax Exempt Organization Search tool you may find useful. 

Use Secure Payment Methods

When donating to a charity, make sure to use secure payment methods. Do not give out your credit card information to anyone over the phone or through an email. If the charity has a website, make sure they use a secure payment gateway to protect your personal information. If you have any doubts, call the charity directly to arrange your payment.

Wrapping It Up

Charity fraud is a significant problem, but by following these tips, you can protect yourself and ensure that your donations make a real difference. By doing your research, using secure payment methods, and staying away from high-pressure tactics, you can make a meaningful contribution to a worthy cause while avoiding scammers. 

Remember to choose established and reputable charities that have a proven track record. By taking these precautions, you can give with confidence and support causes that matter to you.

JT Tax Services: Taxes Made Easy

When it comes to taxes, knowledge is power. That’s why at At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of all applicable tax laws and regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California, contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services. Feel free to contact us today!

Closeup of man holding cell phone with both hands illustrates blog "What Is Form 1099-K?"

What Is Form 1099-K? 

As a business owner, you must keep yourself updated about tax obligations. One of these obligations is to file annual tax returns and issue necessary forms to your contractors and employees. A crucial form in this regard is Form 1099-K. But do you know what this form is and how it works? In this blog post, we will guide you through the basics of Form 1099-K.

What is Form 1099-K?

Form 1099-K is a tax form issued by third-party payment processors to merchants, sellers, and other businesses that receive card payments such as credit and debit card transactions. 

The form lists the total dollar amount of all transactions in a given year, and businesses use it to report their income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). 

In short, Form 1099-K is used to track electronic payment transactions.

Who Files Form 1099-K?

If your business accepts digital payments exceeding $20,000 and does over 200 transactions, you must issue a Form 1099-K. Third-party transaction processors such as PayPal, Stripe or other payment vendors issue 1099-K on the IRS’s behalf. 

Note that even if the third-party processor has not reported this, you as business owner will be still responsible for issuing a 1099-K.

What Information is Required?

Form 1099-K requires certain basic information about the business and its transactions. Commonly asked questions such as “What type of payment was accepted?”, “what is the total exchange of money spent?”, “what is the name and address of the payee?” must be included in the form. It’s up to the business owner to ensure that the information is accurate and complete.

What Happens if You Fail To File Form 1099-K

If a business owner fails to file or issue 1099-K, the IRS imposes penalties and interest. Remember that it is the responsibility of the business owner to keep accurate records of their earnings and follow through on their tax requirements to avoid any unwarranted penalties.

Wrapping It Up

As a business owner, it is crucial to be aware of your tax filing duties and follow them diligently. Knowing about Form 1099-K and its requirements will assist you in avoiding penalties and ensuring that your tax obligations are met in a timely, responsible, and cost-efficient manner.  Familiarize yourself with the 1099-K form and stay ahead of the game, to save yourself from any predicaments.

JT Tax Services: Taxes Made Easy

When it comes to taxes, knowledge is power. That’s why at At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of all applicable tax laws and regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California, contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services. Feel free to contact us today!

Photo of couple holding tablet.

IRS Further Postpones tax-filing and tax-payment deadline for California Storm Victims

Individuals and businesses in 55 of California’s 58 counties will be able to take advantage of the new federal deadline. Keep reading to learn all the details.

What You Need To Know

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that it will postpone for a second time the federal tax-filing and tax-payment deadline for victims of storms that hit California earlier this year. 

Individuals and businesses in 55 of California’s 55 counties (the exceptions are Lassen, Modoc and Shasta counties) will have until Thursday, November 16 (instead of October 16), to file and pay their 2022 tax returns. 

The eligible returns and payments include those listed below (keep in mind that this extension applies only to federal taxes):

  • 2022 individual income tax returns and payments normally due on April 18.
  • For eligible taxpayers, 2022 contributions to IRAs and health savings accounts.
  • Quarterly estimated tax payments normally due on April 18, June 15 and Sept. 15.
  • Calendar-year 2022 partnership and S corporation returns normally due on March 15.
  • Calendar-year 2022 corporate and fiduciary income tax returns and payments normally due on April 18.
  • Quarterly payroll and excise tax returns normally due on May 1, July 31 and Oct. 31.
  • Calendar-year 2022 returns filed by tax-exempt organizations normally due on May 15.

Other returns and payments qualify. Visit the IRS Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief page for more details. 

Taxpayers in the affected areas don’t have to contact the IRS or take any other action to take advantage of the extended deadline. The IRS will automatically provide filing and penalty relief to any taxpayer with an IRS address of record located in the disaster area.

Additional relief may be available to affected taxpayers who participate in a retirement plan or individual retirement arrangement (IRA). To learn more, contact the IRS or get in touch with our experts at JT Tax Services. 

JT Tax Services: Taxes Made Easy

When it comes to taxes, knowledge is power. That’s why at At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of all applicable tax laws and regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California, contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services. Feel free to contact us today!

Woman in meeting room illustrates blog "What Is a Limited Liability Company (LLC)? "

What Is a Limited Liability Company (LLC)?

One of the most popular business structures, especially for small business owners, is a Limited Liability Company, or LLC for short. If you’re unfamiliar with what an LLC is or how it operates, don’t worry! This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of what an LLC is, how it works, and why it might be the right option for your business.

What is an LLC?

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a legal structure that combines the benefits of a partnership or sole proprietorship with those of a corporation. 

Essentially, it’s a way to structure your business that offers both personal liability protection and flexibility. 

By forming an LLC, you are creating a separate legal entity that can own property, enter into contracts, and conduct business. 

However, unlike corporations, there are no shareholders or boards of directors to answer to – instead, owners of an LLC are referred to as members and can manage the company themselves.

How does an LLC work?

To form an LLC, you will need to file paperwork with your state’s Secretary of State and pay a registration fee. 

Typically, this involves providing basic information about your company, such as its name, address, and the names of its members. 

Once your LLC is registered, you’ll need to draft an operating agreement, which outlines how the business will be run, how profits and losses will be divided among members, and other important information. 

An LLC is typically taxed as a pass-through entity, meaning that the profits and losses are reported on the individual tax returns of members and not at the business level.

Why choose an LLC?

There are several benefits to choosing an LLC as your business structure. 

One of the most significant advantages is that LLCs provide personal liability protection to their owners. This means that if your business is sued or incurs debt, your personal assets (such as your home or car) cannot be used to satisfy those debts. 

Additionally, LLCs offer flexibility in terms of management structure, and there are typically fewer formalities required than with a corporation. This means that you can operate your business more informally while still enjoying the legal benefits of being a separate entity.

LLCs: What You Need To Keep in Mind

While LLCs offer many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. 

One of the most notable is that LLCs can be more expensive to form and maintain than sole proprietorships or partnerships.

 Additionally, the process of forming an LLC can be complex, and it may be beneficial to work with a lawyer or tax professional to ensure that you’re complying with all applicable laws and regulations. 

Finally, while LLCs provide personal liability protection, there are limits. For example, members can still be held personally liable if they engage in fraudulent or illegal activities on behalf of the company.

Wrapping It Up

Overall, a Limited Liability Company is a popular legal structure for entrepreneurs looking to start a business. 

It offers personal liability protection, flexibility, and a relatively easy process to set up and maintain. 

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider, such as the cost of formation and maintenance. 

By understanding how an LLC works and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right structure for your business.

JT Tax Services: Taxes Made Easy

When it comes to taxes, knowledge is power. That’s why at At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of all applicable tax laws and regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California, contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services. Feel free to contact us today!

Woman in business attire with man and woman in the background illustrates blog "What Is a C Corporation and How Does It Work?"

What Is a C Corporation and How Does It Work?

When starting a new business, it’s important to choose the right structure for your company. One popular option is a C Corporation. But what are they, exactly? Read on to learn more about C corporations, from a basic definition to their pros and cons. 

Definition of a C Corporation

A C Corporation is a type of business structure in which the company is owned by shareholders who have limited liability for the company’s debts and obligations. 

The corporation operates as a separate legal entity that can conduct business, own assets, and enter into contracts. 

This means that the corporation can sue and be sued, enter into agreements, and pay taxes separately from its owners.

How a C Corporation Works

A C Corporation is managed by a board of directors who are elected by the shareholders. 

The board of directors is responsible for making major business decisions, such as choosing the company’s officers, approving budgets, and setting corporate policies. The officers of the corporation, such as the CEO and CFO, are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business.

C Corporations issue stock to shareholders, which represents their ownership in the business. Shareholders are not involved in the day-to-day operations of the business and do not have liability for the debts and obligations of the corporation.

Advantages of a C Corporation

One of the main advantages of a C Corporation is that it offers limited liability to its shareholders. 

This means that the personal assets of the shareholders are protected from the corporation’s debts and obligations. Additionally, the corporation can raise capital by issuing stock to investors, which can help the business grow and expand.

Another advantage of a C Corporation is that it can deduct certain business expenses, such as salaries, benefits, and property taxes. This can help reduce the company’s tax liability and increase its profits.

Disadvantages of a C Corporation

One of the main disadvantages of a C Corporation is that it is subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and then the shareholders pay taxes on any dividends they receive. This can result in a higher overall tax liability for the company and its shareholders.

Another disadvantage of a C Corporation is that it requires more formalities and paperwork than other business structures, such as a sole proprietorship or partnership. This can result in higher administrative costs and more time spent on compliance.

JT Tax Services: Taxes Made Easy

When it comes to taxes, knowledge is power. That’s why at At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of all applicable tax laws and regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California, contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services. Feel free to contact us today!

Photo of calendar beside a laptop illustrates blog "How Long Will It Take for the IRS to Process My Amended Return?"

How Long Will It Take for the IRS to Process My Amended Return?

If you had to amend your tax return, chances are that you are wondering how long it will take for the IRS to process it. Well, wonder no more, because in today’s post we give you the inside scoop on this useful tax topic.

What Is an Amended Return?

First, let’s understand what an amended return is and why you might need to amend your tax return in the first place. 

Simply put, an amended return is a tax return you file to correct errors in a previously filed tax return. 

Some common reasons to amend your return include mistakes in reporting your income, or inaccuracies in deductions, credits, or filing status. 

How Long Will It Take for the IRS to Process My Amended Return?

The duration of time it takes for the IRS to process your amended return and issue depends on several factors. 

For example, the previous estimated time to process an amended return was 16 weeks. However, under the current circumstances, the IRS estimates that it takes more than 20 weeks to process an amended return, regardless of whether you file electronically or on paper.

The reason is that, according to the agency’s information, the IRS has 1.43 million unprocessed 1040-X Forms which are being processed in the order they were received.

We know: 20 weeks is a long time. However, you can check the status of your amended return using the tool Where’s My Amended Return on the IRS website. Note that it can take up to three weeks after you mail or file your amended return electronically for it to show up on the system. 

For more tax tips, be sure to check out our previous blogs: “Filing Status: What Is It And Why It Matters?” and “How To Organize Your Tax Records

JT Tax Services: Taxes Made Easy

When it comes to taxes, knowledge is power. That’s why at At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are working with experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of all applicable tax laws and regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California, contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services. Feel free to contact us today!

Couple looking at laptop illustrates blog "Will Tax Refunds Be Bigger in 2023?"

Will Tax Refunds Be Bigger in 2023?

Tax season 2023 has officially started, and with it come all types of questions. For example, will tax refunds be bigger in 2023? In today’s blog post, we answer this question and provide some useful tips for the filing season. 

Will Tax Refunds Be Bigger in 2023?

Unfortunately, the answer is no: it is unlikely that your tax return will be bigger in 2023 than in the last two years. One of the main reasons is that there were no Economic Impact Payments for 2022

Additionally, some tax credits (such as the child tax credit) that were extended to offer economic relief during the pandemic have reverted to their 2019 levels. 

To sum it up, many of the tax incentives that were deployed over the last two years to help Americans deal with the impact of COVID-19 are being rolled back. For many taxpayers, this return to normal will translate into a smaller tax refund in 2023.

Regardless of the size of your return, there are some things you can do speed up the process:

  • File as early as possible (while making sure that all the information in your return is accurate)
  • File electronically
  • Choose direct deposit for your tax refund 

What You Need To Keep in Mind

Federal tax season 2023 began on January 23. The deadline to file your federal taxes this year is April 18, 2023

However the IRS has given victims of the storms that hit California an extended May 15 deadline to file federal individual and business tax returns and make the related tax payments.

If you need help filing your tax return, contact JT Tax Services. Our team will answer all your questions and ensure that you get your maximum tax refund. 

For more tips on how to navigate the 2023 tax season, check out our previous blog “Reminder: Tax Season Begins January 2023.”

Have Questions? at JT Tax Services, We Have Answers

At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are limiting your liability while staying compliant with all regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California, contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services.

Photo of student with earphones and smartphone illustrates blog: "What You Need to Know About Education Tax Credits"

What You Need to Know About Education Tax Credits

If you or someone included on your tax return are pursuing higher education, we encourage you to consider two little-known tax credits: the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) and the Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC), two tax breaks that can reduce the amount of tax you owe.

Education Tax Credits: What You Need to Know

The purpose of the AOTC and the LLC is to help with the cost of higher education by lowering the amount of tax you owe. 

Regardless of the differences between these credits (we’ll touch on that later), three conditions must be met in order to qualify for any of them:

  • You, your dependent, or a third party pays qualified education expenses for higher education.
  • An eligible student must be enrolled at an eligible educational institution.
  • The eligible student is yourself, your spouse, or a dependent you list on your tax return.

On the other hand, you CANNOT claim these credits if someone else (such as your parents) lists you on their tax return; if your filing status is married filing separately; if you already claimed or deducted another higher education benefit using the same student or same expenses; or if you or your spouse were a non-resident alien for any part of the year and did not choose to be treated as a resident alien for tax purposes.

Differences Between AOTC and LLC

One of the most relevant differences between these two credits is that the AOTC, applies only when the student hasn’t completed four years of post-secondary education before 2021. Plus, the student must be pursuing a degree or other recognized education credential and must have no felony drug convictions as of the end of 2021.

By contrast, it’s possible to qualify for the LLC with all years of post-secondary education and for courses to acquire or improve job skills. Additionally, the student does not need to be pursuing a degree or other recognized education credential. Finally, the requirement of no felony drug convictions does not apply in this case. 

Another important difference is that the AOTC is a partially refundable tax credit (40%), while the LLC is not refundable. This distinction is worth keeping in mind because not refundable tax credits cannot be used to increase your tax refund or to create a tax refund when you don’t have one.

If you are interested in learning more about education tax credits, contact us today. We’ll be glad to help you make sense of these tax breaks and determine if you qualify for any of them. 

Need Help With Your Taxes? Contact the Experts at JT Tax Services

Do you need assistance with personal or business taxes?  JT Tax Services is here to help! We give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are limiting your liability while staying compliant with all regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California. Contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services.

When Is Tax Day 2022?

When Is Tax Day in 2022?

New Year’s is almost here! But before you turn the page on 2021, make sure to mark this important tax date on your calendar for 2022.

When Is Tax Day in 2022?

Tax Day is the deadline to submit your federal tax return. This day is usually April 15 or the Monday after if the 15 falls on Saturday, Sunday, or a Festivity. 

The Federal Tax Day next year will be April 18, 2022, because April 15 is Emancipation Day, a regional government holiday observed in Washington D.C.

In 2020 and 2021, Tax Day was moved due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The IRS deemed it necessary to give taxpayers more time to file their taxes given the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

However, there are no official plans to push Tax Day to a different date in 2022, so it’s a good idea to begin gathering any supporting documents you may need and contact a tax expert if you have any questions. 

When Is the First Day to File Your Taxes?

Each year, during the first days of January, the IRS issues a statement announcing the first day to file taxes. Stay tuned to learn when you can begin filing, as well as other useful tips from our experts. 

Once you are ready to file, you can do it either by mail or using electronic filing (or e-file). E-file is usually the most convenient option, as it helps you get your tax refund faster. 

Finally, keep in mind that this information (including the April 18 deadline) applies only to federal taxes — the dates and processes for state taxes may be different. Contact your local tax agency or a tax expert you trust to ensure you file and pay all your taxes on time. 

Need Help With Your Taxes? Contact the Experts at JT Tax Services

Do you need assistance with personal or business taxes?  JT Tax Services is here to help! We give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are limiting your liability while staying compliant with all regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California. Contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services.

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