Governor Continues Easing Mask Mandate but They’re Still Required in Some Places

Gov. Holcomb speaks during his weekly COVID-19 press conference on Mar. 3.

Governor Holcomb is easing some of Indiana’s remaining mask requirements, but a few will remain in place. Starting Tuesday, masks will no longer be required in most state government buildings. But they will still be required at COVID-19 testing and vaccination sites, Indiana prisons, state hospitals, and other congregate facilities owned by the state.

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Avoid Common Errors When Filing Income Tax Returns

The income tax filing deadline is less than two weeks away. Many taxpayers may be rushing to complete paperwork to make the filing deadline which can lead to common errors.

The Internal Revenue Service urges taxpayers to slow down and take time to fill out required forms correctly. If forms are not completed correctly, it will likely take the IRS more time to process the paperwork.

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Don’t Ignore Income Tax Filing Deadline

Federal and state income tax returns need to be filed tomorrow. Michelle Bachtel with H&R Block says you have options if you owe and are not able to pay. She adds the most important thing is not to panic

“If you can’t pay the full amount by April 15, just pay what as much as you can,” Bachtel said. “Even though interest will accrue on the amount owed, you’re not going to be arrested, and they’re not going to come knock on your door and seize your home.” Continue reading

Itemizing Pays if You Qualify

Federal and state income taxes are due Wednesday. Michelle Bachtel from H&R Block in Knox says taxpayers can either take the standard deduction or itemize, depending on which will be most advantageous for their personal situation.

For individuals who are filing single or married filing separate, the standard deduction is $6,200. For a married filing joint couple or a qualifying widower with a dependent child, that amount is doubled to $12,400. And for a person filing head of household the amount is $9,100.

Bachtel encourages taxpayers to study their options carefully. Continue reading

Get Your Information Together Before Tackling Your Taxes

If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, time is running out. Federal and state income taxes are both due Wednesday, April 15. Michelle Bachtel from H&R Block in Knox says you need to have personal information for everyone on your return handy before you start. This includes Social Security numbers, birth dates and full legal names as registered with the Social Security Administration. You will also need documentation of all of your income from wages, tips, savings, investments, retirement, rental property, self-employment or farming. Continue reading

Don’t Forget Any Income When Filing Your Taxes

Federal and state income taxes are due in eight days. Michelle Bachtel from H&R Block in Knox says it’s important not to exclude any sources of income.

“Pretty much all income, whether it’s reported or not reported, is taxable unless the law specifically excludes it,” Bachtel said. “This includes non-cash income from things like bartering or exchanging of assets. Both parties are expected to include the fair market value of the item or services they received as income on their tax returns.” Continue reading

Taxes Are Due Next Week – Who Needs to File?

Federal and state income taxes are due April 15. Michelle Bachtel with the H&R Block office in Knox says anyone whose income exceeds the filing threshold set by the IRS needs to file a tax return. Thresholds are based on your age and filing status, which is either single, married filing joint, married filing separate, head of household or qualifying widower.

Income requirements vary, but Bachtel offers a general guideline. Continue reading

Income Tax Filing Deadline is Quickly Approaching

Just three weeks remain to file income taxes on time. The deadline to file is Wednesday, April 15.

Katie McLear Public Relations Specialist with the Indiana Department of Revenue says taxes can be filed for free with the Indiana Free File program. If eligibility requirements don’t allow that option, McLear says the best option is to file electronically.

“There are a number of benefits to filing electronically,” explained McLear. “First for foremost you’re going to get your refund much faster. You’ll get that refund in about 10 to 14 days. You could wait up to 12 weeks if you file by paper.”

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