Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Taxing Times

In case you hadn't noticed, today marks the day that many Americans dread most. Yes, it's the day when it's time to pay the piper, when it's time to put up and shut up, when the pain of IRSitis (that's pronounced ur-si-tihs) hits most Americans and no amount of aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen will help. Ever since the U.S. Tax Code, which identifies the Internal Revenue Service as the official tax collecting arm of the govenment, went into effect has the plight of the American taxpayer ever been made more stressful and the careers of H. and R. Block more profitable. For those that use Turbo Tax or any of the other computer programs that attempt to help figure out what is owed and what can be deducted safely, the old adage "garbage in and garbage out" has probably never been truer. Regardless if you've figured it out correctly or not, it's time to submit your check because if you don't pay what is owed today, you may be liable for penalties and interest which can turn a small oversight into a major headache. My advice is get a good accountant and maintain a healthy friendship. Accountants can be lifesavers on the sea of taxation. And in the meantime just take a deep breath. The next quarter will be due in just another 90 days.

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