EITC Claimants, R&D Tax Credit Form, and the ERC Moratorium
Tax Policy/News:
September 18: IRS to reduce audits of EITC claimants
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced its intention to decrease the audit rate for low-income taxpayers who claim refundable tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
This move is part of a broader strategy to shift focus towards auditing wealthier taxpayers and large corporations. IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel highlighted this "rebalancing effort" in a letter to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden.
Werfel emphasized that the IRS aims to assist taxpayers in submitting accurate filings from the outset, which would enhance payment accuracy and reduce administrative burdens for both the IRS and the taxpayer. This reallocation of resources will allow the IRS to concentrate on its core objectives of equitable and efficient tax administration. Additionally, the IRS is addressing the disparity in its audits of Black taxpayers, aiming to reduce the significant difference in audit rates between Black and non-Black taxpayers.
The recent announcement aligns with the IRS's previous declaration to increase audits of large partnerships, major corporations, and high-income taxpayers.
The IRS plans to utilize artificial intelligence for its partnership audits, leveraging additional funding from the Inflation Reduction Act. The focus on high-wealth tax evaders, complex partnerships, and large corporations has been praised by various officials, emphasizing the importance of equity in tax administration. However, the IRS has also faced criticism regarding its cybersecurity measures, with some pointing out longstanding vulnerabilities that could compromise taxpayer information.
September 15: IRS previews changes in R&D tax credit form
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has provided a preview of the anticipated changes to the form used for claiming research tax credits.
The sneak peek of the revised Form 6765, titled "Credit for Increasing Research Activities," comes after some tax professionals expressed concerns in 2021 regarding a memorandum released by the IRS. The new form is being introduced as companies adjust to accounting for research and development expenses, especially after the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 mandated the amortization of R&D expenses.
The IRS's proposed changes to Form 6765 aim to offer taxpayers a consistent format for tax reporting, enhance the quality of information received for tax administration, and optimize the agency's management of research credit issues.
The proposed modifications include the introduction of a new Section E with five questions for miscellaneous information, a new Section F for reporting data for each business component as mandated under Section 41 of the Tax Code, and the relocation of certain questions to the top of Form 6765.
The IRS is also seeking feedback on whether Section F should be optional for specific taxpayers, including those with certain expenditure thresholds or those qualifying as a Small Business for the Payroll Tax Credit. Feedback is to be submitted by October 31, 2023, and the IRS will consider all input before finalizing changes to the form.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has imposed an immediate moratorium on the processing of new claims for the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) until at least the end of the year. This decision was taken in response to a surge in improper claims and concerns about scams targeting honest small business owners.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel highlighted that a significant portion of new claims from the aging program are ineligible, with businesses being put at financial risk due to aggressive marketing and promotion tactics.
The IRS will continue to process previously filed ERC claims received before the moratorium. However, due to heightened fraud concerns, the processing times are expected to be longer. On July 26, the IRS shifted its focus to review these claims for compliance, intensifying audit work and initiating criminal investigations on dubious claims. The agency revealed that hundreds of criminal cases are underway, and thousands of ERC claims have been flagged for audit.
The IRS has emphasized that while payouts for these claims will continue during the moratorium, they will be at a slower pace due to detailed compliance reviews. The standard processing goal for existing ERC claims has been extended from 90 days to 180 days, and it could be even longer if the claim requires further review or audit.
The IRS might also request additional documentation from taxpayers to validate the legitimacy of their claims. Commissioner Werfel expressed concern about the increasing number of honest small business owners falling victim to scams. He urged businesses to consult trusted tax professionals who are well-versed with the complex ERC rules, rather than relying on promoters seeking hefty contingency fees.
The IRS is also developing new initiatives to assist businesses that have been misled by aggressive promoters, including a settlement program for repayments for those who received an incorrect ERC payment. Additionally, the IRS is collaborating with the Justice Department to tackle fraud in the ERC program and address promoters who are flouting the rules.
Economic News/Policy:
September 19: Yellen says U.S. 'soft landing' can weather strike, govt shutdown, student loan risks
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen conveyed a positive outlook for the U.S. economy, emphasizing its ability to endure imminent challenges.
Among these challenges are the United Auto Workers strike, threats of a government shutdown, the upcoming resumption of student loan payments, and potential economic repercussions from China's current economic downturn.
Speaking with Reuters, Yellen noted that while there's a noticeable cooling in the labor market, it's happening in a structured manner that doesn't involve widespread layoffs. This cooling is seen as a healthy adjustment, removing some of the overheating from the job market.
Furthermore, she pointed out that the Federal Reserve is set to begin a two-day meeting to consider its strategies, especially in the context of its aggressive rate hikes aimed at containing inflation.
Economic experts have raised concerns that factors like the auto strike, potential government shutdown, and the end of a moratorium on student loan repayments could collectively dampen the economy. Despite these challenges, Yellen remains optimistic, citing evidence of the economy's consistent progress towards curbing inflation while ensuring a vibrant labor market and robust consumer expenditure.
September 19: Another Rate Hike Pause Likely, but Experts Expect Savings Rates to Remain High
This week, the Federal Reserve is anticipated to hold off on further interest rate hikes, marking a continuation of its recent trend. Despite the central bank's pause, experts believe that the savings rates will remain elevated.
The Fed's decision is influenced by various factors, including inflationary pressures and the ongoing pandemic. While some analysts argue that the central bank should raise rates to combat inflation, others believe that the current economic conditions warrant a more cautious approach.
The article also highlights that consumers should keep an eye on their savings accounts, as banks might adjust their rates in response to the Fed's actions.
The Federal Reserve's stance on interest rates has a significant impact on the broader economy, affecting everything from mortgage rates to credit card interest. With the uncertainty surrounding the global economy, particularly due to the pandemic, the Fed's decisions are closely watched by investors, economists, and the general public.
As the central bank navigates these challenging times, its actions will play a crucial role in shaping the financial landscape. Consumers are advised to stay informed and be prepared for any potential changes in the financial environment.
September 13: High gas prices fuel August inflation spike
In August, inflation experienced a significant surge, primarily due to a sharp rise in gasoline prices, as reported by the Labor Department. The Consumer Price Index (CPI), a primary measure of inflation, increased by 0.6% in August and 3.7% over the past year.
Gasoline prices accounted for over half of the total monthly inflation increase. Additionally, the consistent rise in shelter prices, which have been increasing for 40 consecutive months, also contributed to the overall inflation.
Energy prices typically see a spike during the summer months as Americans travel more and use additional electricity to cool their homes. Gas prices increased by 10.6% in August, although they are 3% lower than the same period in 2022.
While the rise in gas prices might not be alarming, the consistent increase in shelter costs and other services could be a concern for Federal Reserve officials.
Analysts have provided varied insights on the inflation data. Kayla Bruun, a senior economist at Morning Consult, mentioned that while the rise in top-line inflation was anticipated, the slight increase in monthly core inflation is more concerning, especially considering the Federal Reserve's focus on the more persistent components of the index.
On the other hand, there were some positive indicators, such as the weakening of core commodity prices and the smallest increase in the shelter component since 2021. The Federal Reserve is currently deliberating whether to maintain the current interest rates or increase them to counteract inflation.
After reaching a peak of 9.1% in June of the previous year, annual inflation has significantly decreased, but there are indications that the U.S. economy might be weakening due to high rates.
Energy and Environmental Policy/News:
September 14: Biden administration gives states more authority to block pipeline projects
The Biden administration has granted states increased authority to block or delay pipeline projects, reversing a Trump-era rule that had limited state powers in this regard.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the decision, emphasizing that states, tribes, and authorized agencies can now deny certifications for projects that may discharge into navigable waters if they believe the project could harm water quality.
This move is seen as a significant win for environmentalists and a setback for the fossil fuel industry. The Trump administration had previously curtailed state powers, arguing that some states were using their authority to block fossil fuel infrastructure for reasons beyond water concerns.
The new rule restores provisions of the Clean Water Act, which allows states to have a say in federal projects that could impact their waterways. The Biden administration's decision has been lauded by environmental groups, who believe that local entities are better positioned to understand and protect their water resources.
However, the decision has faced criticism from the fossil fuel industry and its allies, who argue that it could stifle energy infrastructure development and increase costs. They are concerned that states might use this authority to block projects based on broader environmental concerns rather than just water quality issues.
Technology:
September 13: Tech CEOs, senators talk risks of AI, need for ‘safeguards’
CEOs of major artificial intelligence (AI) companies, civil society leaders, and senators convened for a closed-door discussion on the benefits and risks of AI technology. The meeting, which took place on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, aimed to address the challenges of implementing safeguards without hindering innovation.
Over 60 senators were present, with a 22-person panel that included notable figures such as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the bipartisan interest in understanding and regulating AI, with a consensus on the need for government intervention. However, the discussions were broad, with no clear agreement on specific regulatory measures or the responsible agency. Both Zuckerberg and Pichai highlighted the crucial role of Congress in AI regulation. The forum was described by senators as enlightening, emphasizing the urgency to understand and regulate the rapidly evolving technology.
The AI Insight Forum was part of Schumer's broader plan for AI regulation, introduced in June. Since then, other senators have proposed more specific regulatory measures.
For instance, Senators Richard Blumenthal and Josh Hawley suggested a regulation requiring AI companies to apply for licensing, while Senators Amy Klobuchar, Hawley, Chris Coons, and Susan Collins proposed a ban on deceptive AI-generated content in political advertisements.
Schumer expressed the need for a comprehensive plan that can be passed, emphasizing a timeline of months rather than years for a regulatory proposal.
ICYMI:
September 13: IRS cracks down on illegal sports betting
The Internal Revenue Service's Criminal Investigation division is intensifying its focus on illicit activities related to sports betting, especially as the pro football season commences.
From 2021 to 2023, IRS criminal investigators launched over 100 probes into illegal gambling activities, amounting to more than $178 million. Out of these investigations, 89 resulted in indictments, boasting a 96% conviction rate for the cases that were prosecuted. The average prison sentence for these cases was 23 months.
IRS Criminal Investigation Chief Jim Lee emphasized the importance of adhering to tax obligations and warned of the consequences of money laundering and tax evasion in the sports betting sector.
In a highlighted case, the IRS Criminal Investigation collaborated with FBI agents to investigate an extensive illegal gambling operation based in the Chicago area. This operation accepted wagers from approximately 1,000 gamblers on various sports.
The main operator, Vincent Delgiudice, also known as "Uncle Mick," frequently placed bets at casinos to hedge against potential losses if his clients won. According to the IRS CI, Delgiudice laundered his earnings internationally through cashier's checks and investments in businesses. In March 2022, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison and was mandated to forfeit $3.6 million for his involvement in money laundering and running an illegal gambling business.
The IRS also reminded individuals participating in sports betting to report their winnings on their annual tax returns using Form W-2G and to maintain detailed records of all their gambling transactions.
For Fun:
September 19: Brain cell origins traced to creatures that lived 800 million years ago
A groundbreaking study has unveiled that the components of brain cells began forming approximately 800 million years ago in shallow seas.
Researchers from the Centre for Genomic Regulation have traced the origins of brain cells to placozoans, minuscule marine animals, offering insights into the evolutionary progression of neurons.
Placozoans, comparable in size to a large grain of sand, are one of the five primary animal lineages and consume algae and microbes in warm, shallow waters. These creatures lack organs or distinct body parts but possess peptidergic cells, which release peptides to guide their feeding and movements. Through comprehensive molecular and computational studies, these cells were identified as precursors to contemporary neurons.
The research highlighted "in-between” cell types that connect the primary nine cell types in placozoans. These peptidergic cells, distinguishable from other cells, showed a remarkable similarity to neurons that appeared millions of years later in more evolved organisms.
The study identified three significant parallels between peptidergic cells and neurons. Firstly, placozoa cells differentiate similarly to neurogenesis seen in cnidarians and bilaterians. Secondly, while these cells have many neuron-like components, they lack certain features, such as the ability to conduct electrical signals. Lastly, using deep learning, it was determined that these cells communicated via GPCRs (G-protein coupled receptors), a characteristic of neuronal communication.
The research suggests that the foundational elements of neurons began to take shape in ancient seas around 800 million years ago. Over time, placozoans' peptidergic cells evolved to incorporate features essential for neurons, such as ion channels and post-synaptic scaffolds.
While the first modern neuron is believed to have emerged around 650 million years ago, the existence of neuron-like cells in ctenophores with unique features poses significant questions about the evolutionary path of neurons.