Author Archives: Russ

Gilbert Hyatt Wins Again But…

Posted on January 17, 2019 by Russ

The California Office of Tax Appeals upheld the California Board of Equalization’s ruling that Gilbert Hyatt mostly doesn’t owe California income tax in 1991 or 1992. Yes, you’re reading that correctly: This is a case that is 27 years in … Continue reading →

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When 85% Equals 90%

Posted on January 16, 2019 by Russ

One of my favorite expressions from poker that translates into tax is, “Math is hard.” But how can 85% equal 90%? No, the two aren’t equivalent. However, this year they are equal in one aspect of taxes. The IRS announced … Continue reading →

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It’s Time to Generate Those 2018 1099s

Posted on January 15, 2019 by Russ

It’s time for businesses to send out their annual information returns. These are the Form 1099s that are sent to to vendors when required. Let’s look first at who does not have to receive 1099s: Corporations (except attorneys) Entities you … Continue reading →

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Fourth Quarter Estimated Tax Payments Due Today

Posted on January 15, 2019 by Russ

Today is January 15th. That means your fourth quarter estimated tax payments are due today. It’s a postmark deadline, so if you pay by mail, download Form 1040-ES, print voucher #4, enclose your check payable to “United States Treasury” (write … Continue reading →

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A Dutch Lament: Where oh Where Is PokerStars Located?

Posted on January 9, 2019 by Russ

In a few weeks I’ll be publishing my list of where online gambling sites are located. A question that arose in the Netherlands is in regards to the location of PokerStars, the largest online poker site. An excerpt from my … Continue reading →

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IRS to Open Tax Season on Monday, January 28th

Posted on January 8, 2019 by Russ

The IRS announced yesterday that the 2019 Tax Season will begin on Monday, January 28th: Despite the government shutdown, the Internal Revenue Service today confirmed that it will process tax returns beginning January 28, 2019 and provide refunds to taxpayers … Continue reading →

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Tax Refunds May Be Issued During Government Shutdown

Posted on January 7, 2019 by Russ

Vice President Pence announced today that the IRS would issue tax refunds during the government shutdown. The Wall Street Journal reported this earlier today, but it’s unclear what the legal justification would be. Speculation (by the Journal) is that the … Continue reading →

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Gilbert Hyatt and the Franchise Tax Board Head Back to the Supreme Court…Again

Posted on January 6, 2019 by Russ

Back in 1993 (that is not a typographical error), California’s Franchise Tax Board (FTB) initiated a residency audit of Gilbert Hyatt. Mr. Hyatt invented some technology relating to microprocessors in 1990. In 1991 he realized he was going to receive … Continue reading →

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It’s Time to Start Your 2019 Mileage Log

Posted on January 4, 2019 by Russ

I’m going to start the new year with a couple reposts of essential information. Yes, you do need to keep a mileage log: Wednesday was the first business day of the new year for many. You may have resolved to … Continue reading →

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The 2018 Tax Offender of the Year

Posted on December 31, 2018 by Russ

Another year has gone by. And that means it’s once again time for that most prestigious of prestigious awards, the Tax Offender of the Year. As usual, there’s a plethora of nominees. As usual, I wish there weren’t any deserving … Continue reading →

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