Tax

The tax preparation software industry experienced minimal overall growth over the past five years, averaging only 0.1 percent annually to reach an estimated $2.4 billion in 2012, according to new research.

Tax credits and deductions for education are too complicated and so confusing that most taxpayers cannot determine which provisions are best for them, the American Institute of CPAs said in written testimony to the Senate Finance Committee.

Every year, it seems that the tax profession is faced with year-end legislation, late forms and radical changes that add to the complexity and headache of preparing a return. Despite all of the above, most practitioners realize that it’s the complexity and confusion that drives new clients their way.

CCH has upgraded its CCH Mobile app to enable CCH IntelliConnect users to access, save and send tax research using Apple iPhone, iPad and Android devices.

A new Web site offers taxpayers free access to answers from local tax professionals who pay to be listed in its search engine.

With record-setting temperatures across the country this summer reminding people that the weather has been getting pretty hot lately, it was only a matter of time before the notion of imposing carbon taxes would return to the heads of policy makers.

The Internal Revenue Service said Tuesday that effective Oct. 1, 2012, applications to become an IRS e-file provider must be submitted online.

The House approved legislation last week that would allow federal employees with seriously delinquent tax debts to be terminated.

President Barack Obama criticized Republican rival Mitt Romney’s tax reform plans during a campaign appearance, referring to them as “Robin Hood in reverse” and “Romney Hood.”

Jackson Hewitt Tax Service has unveiled a mid-year list of top areas taxpayers should be considering or have pointed out to then by preparers to help put them in a better position when filing their tax returns next April.