Tax guidance during the COVID-19 Outbreak
We are facing uncertain times…
COVID-19 is forcing all businesses and individuals to adjust in a multitude of ways. We are all concerned what this means as we navigate this unprecedented period.
Our mission is to help you thrive. Details are changing rapidly, but below is the latest on what we know. Please share this information with those you care about. Check back for more updates.
Here are the changes you should be aware of:
1) Delayed filing and payment date
2) Stimulus payments
3) Charitable contributions
4) Suspension of student loan payments
5) Expansion of unemployment insurance eligibility
6) Retirement account distributions
7) Suspension of IRS collection activities
8) Miscellaneous provisions
1) Delayed filing and payment date
Internal Revenue Service
Individual tax return filing and payment date has been moved from April 15th to July 15th. Estimated payments from April 15th have also been postponed to July 15th. For detailed information visit IRS FAQ at https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/filing-and-payment-deadlines-questions-and-answers.
Note: The IRA Contribution and HSA Contribution for 2019 deadline was also part of the extension.
Note 2: The June 15th estimated tax deadline has not been extended at this time.
IN Department of Revenue
Individual tax return filing and payment date have been extended to match the IRS due date of July 15th.
Other States
Many states are following the IRS’s lead. For details on any specific state, the AICPA is maintaining a comprehensive list here and the Tax Foundation has one here.
2) Stimulus Payments
Rumors and conjecture are traveling rapidly. You’ll find the most up to date information from the horse’s mouth (the IRS itself) at https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus.
Who?
IRS will use your most recently filed return (2019 if already filed or your 2018 tax return) to determine your stimulus. If you have not filed a return because you were not required to file, the IRS has confirmed that they will use Social Security payment records to send stimulus to those individuals. You do not need to file a return.
Note: It’s not clear what cutoff date IRS will use for filed 2019 returns. So file fast if 2019’s tax return will get you a larger check than 2018’s tax return.
How Much
Filing Status (Base Amount)
Single ($1,200)
Married ($2,400)
PLUS $500 per child
Note: Child is defined as those under 17 as of 12/31/2020.
The amount received will be reduced by $5 for every $100 of adjusted gross income (AGI) in excess of the threshold amount.
Filing Status (Threshold Amount)
Single ($75,000)
Married Filing Joint ($150,000)
Head of Household ($112,500)
When
As soon as possible! IRS will mail a notice to the taxpayer within 15 days of payment with details.
How
IRS wants to direct deposit this money since it has limits check mailing capacity. It is planning on developing a web site for you to update your banking information.
2020 Tax Return
This is an advance payment of a new tax credit for 2020, and it’s not income that will be taxed later. If you don’t get the amount you deserve, you’ll get more money when you file next year.
Note: While unclear, we don’t expect you to pay back excess you receive now. No formal guidance has been issued just yet.
3) Charitable Contributions
The act allows for an “above-the-line” deduction of up to $300 that will reduce your AGI. This new deduction permanent tax law (not limited to 2020 tax returns).
Note: We expect this will lower your income and allow for a higher subsidy for Marketplace based health insurance.
4) Student Loan Payments
Federally held student loan payments (principal and interest) are suspended through September 30th, 2020. This will be done automatically, no action is required on the borrowers behalf. Private student loans are up to the individual servicer. Details from the Department of Education can be found at https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus.
5) Unemployment Benefits
Many self-employed individuals (including independent contractors) are now eligible for benefits if they have been affected by COVID-19. The list of “covered individuals” is long but does not include those who can work from home or who are receiving paid leave. Contact your local unemployment office for more details.
6) Retirement Plans
Early Withdrawals
The 10% early withdrawal penalty is waived for up to $100,000 distributed from qualified retirement plans for virus related distributions (Those who experience adverse financial consequences due to the virus.).
Additionally, any income from an early withdrawal is subject to tax over a three-year period. You may re-contribute the withdrawn amounts during the three years as well.
Note: Your tax advisor will be instrumental in helping you determine the optimal three-year strategy to minimize income tax.
Required Distributions
All required minimum distributions (RMDs) have been waived for 2020.
Note: If you took your RMD within the last 60 days, you may return it.
7) IRS Collections
Collections
IRS is generally suspending all new collection activity. New audits and examinations will not be started, and new cases will not be forwarded to collections. Details can be found at https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-unveils-new-people-first-initiative-covid-19-effort-temporarily-adjusts-suspends-key-compliance-program
Installment Agreements
For existing installment agreements, payments between April 1 and July 15th are suspended.
Note: Those with direct debit installment agreements “may suspend payments during this period if they prefer.” While unclear, we believe you must contact the IRS for this suspension.
8) Miscellaneous provisions
A safe harbor from the definition of a high deductible health plan permitting telehealth services to be included, even though such services do not carry a deductible;
The inclusion of over-the-counter menstrual products as qualified medical expenses for purposes of distributions from health savings accounts and health flexible spending arrangements;
The information enclosed within is provided on a best effort and general basis. Don’t rely solely on the information contained within. Contact your advisor for how each provision may relate to your specific situation before making decisions.
Blog by Kim Storen, EA – Managing Tax Accountant, Business Services Manager
Learn more about Kim and the rest of the Storen Financial team here.