Latest news with #local
Yahoo
9 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Lament for the IRL Craft Shop
On a trip to my local Joann craft-supply store recently, I felt a cheap thrill. An extremely cheap thrill. Huge signs posted on the front doors read STORE CLOSING and ENTIRE STORE 30%–70% OFF. One screamed NOTHING HELD BACK, which struck me as both desperate and alluring. I walked in and wandered up and down the picked-over aisles, skimming my fingers across the flannels, fleeces, silks, and satins. Buckets of yarn beckoned. I was even tempted to add a bathrobe, one of those items that places like Joann inexplicably stock alongside craft supplies, to my cart. And soon, in true Millennial fashion, I was lost in nostalgic reverie. When I was 10 or 11, I started a summer 'business' selling friendship bracelets to kids at the local swimming pool, the crafting equivalent of running a neighborhood lemonade stand. That diversion blossomed into a lifetime love of hand-making all sorts of things: blankets, clothes, bags, and many, many hot-glued monstrosities. Since then, I've spent countless hours in craft-supply stores of all kinds, including Joann, which this weekend was expected to finish closing all of its nearly 800 stores, after twice filing for bankruptcy. Joann's shutdown may sound trivial, or even inevitable—the chain is just the latest in a parade of stores that have marched to the graveyard of big-box brands. But many people in creative circles are worried about having fewer places to stock up. Over the past several decades, the expansion of chains such as Joann effectively snuffed out numerous mom-and-pop craft shops, and now many cities and towns may be left without easy, in-person access to a dedicated craft-supply store. This isn't the end of crafting, obviously. People still have Hobby Lobby and Michaels. Even Walmart and Target sell craft supplies, though hard-core crafters will point out, rightly, that those chains don't come close to offering the selection of fabric and other materials that Joann did. Smaller specialty shops exist, but their products tend to be more expensive. And yes, items can be ordered online, but that's always a gamble: Crafting is an intensely tactile experience, and when you can't see or touch supplies before buying them, the reality frequently fails to meet expectations. But the death of a reliable institution such as Joann isn't just about the demise of a business. Its closing creates ever more distance between materials and makers. Plenty of people aspire to indulge their creative side, yet some struggle mightily to find the space and time amid the pressures of day-to-day life. Joann, affordable and accessible, made all of that easier. Take it away, and people might not even try. [Read: Getting through a pandemic with old-fashioned crafts] Joann's disappearance also has, perhaps, an unintended consequence: the loss of yet another outlet for building customs and community, at a time when society could benefit from having more of both. Although crafting is frequently a solitary pursuit, even a kind of invisible labor, it can be a way to form deep, personal connections with other people. I've bonded with a friend at sewing class and spent a weekend with another making Christmas ornaments by covering plastic dinosaurs in Elmer's glue and dipping them in glitter. (Very fun, very messy.) Crafting is also, for many, a matter of family tradition. I learned to crochet from my mother, who was taught by her mother. When I crochet a blanket, I'm participating in, and perpetuating, a loving legacy. And the end result is something I can hold on to for years or even generations. One of my most treasured possessions is a pink, blue, and white afghan blanket my mother crocheted for me when I spent a winter in Chicago. Crafting isn't necessarily a frivolous pursuit (though it can be). Indeed, it occupies a storied place in America's cultural and political history. During the Revolutionary War era, the 'homespun' movement saw women spinning their own yarn as American colonists boycotted British imports. (One of the country's most famous creation myths—that Betsy Ross sewed George Washington's sketch of the first American flag—is of course a story of craft.) Sewing circles have long been a gathering space for political conversation, activism, and agitation. In 1846, Frederick Douglass wrote a thoughtful letter to an antislavery sewing circle in Massachusetts, most likely after its members had reached out to him regarding their interest in abolitionist movements. 'Craftivism' has also led to significant public displays. During the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, thousands of people contributed panels to the AIDS Memorial Quilt, an homage to people who had died from the disease. In 2017, people knitted and wore pink 'pussy hats' at the Women's March on Washington. [Read: The forgotten everyday origins of 'craft'] For the talented and deeply dedicated, crafting can morph into a sustainable livelihood or be elevated to fine art. But it is also, quite simply, fulfilling. I don't know how many hours I've filled reading patterns and sewing (and tearing out) stitches. I've crafted so many handmade gifts: some truly beautiful, such as a cream-colored fisherman's afghan I loved so much, I was sad to give it away; and others, such as an uneven, lumpy quilt I sewed in my early 20s, that were cute at best. Ultimately, losing a store like Joann means losing two of crafting's most necessary elements: inspiration and serendipity. Feeling the weight of a particular yarn, seeing the subtlety of certain colors in certain lights, spotting a finished product on a shelf—these tangible interactions are what move many crafters to experiment with something new. This rich display of possibility is part of what makes crafting feel worthwhile. Which is why, as I tried many different projects over the years, to varying levels of success, I never felt bad about giving a new medium a go. It's also why, on my recent—and most likely last—trip to Joann, as I walked toward the checkout with several skeins of discounted yarn, I stopped and picked up a beginner's cross-stitching kit. Maybe now I'll finally master it. Article originally published at The Atlantic
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Stop drowsy driving, embrace ‘Sardine Summer' and put orange juice in your eggs — plus 7 more health tips to help you have a great week
Hello, health and wellness enthusiasts! My name is Kaitlin Reilly, and I'm here to share this week's best tips for living your most awesome life. Summer is right around the corner, which means you're likely putting some R&R on your calendar. This week, writer Amelia Edelman wrote about why you should take a staycation or use your time off to enjoy activities closer to home. You'll skip the stress (and cost) associated with planning a big trip while still experiencing new things (that just so happen to be in your neck of the woods). For the most feel-good benefits, psychiatrist Dr. Jessica Reddy recommends prioritizing 'novelty, nature and a little bit of wonder' during your staycation rather than just using the time to catch up on laundry or watch TV. Consider planning a picnic at a park on the other side of town or trying a new hiking trail. Check out a museum or art gallery you've never been to before. And don't rule out booking a hotel room for the night (or even just buying a day pass so you can chill out by the pool). While you're dreaming about all the things you can do with your time off, look at the local weather forecast and peek at your horoscope to see what you can expect this Gemini season. Then check out the small steps you can take to make the week ahead great. If you're not going the staycation route, be wary of 'drowsy drowning' when you get back from your travels, BuzzFeed warns. Jet-lagged (or just worn-out) travelers are getting behind the wheel when they're too exhausted to drive safely, putting themselves and others at risk. While it's tempting to drive yourself home from the airport after a trip, it could be deadly: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving contributed to crashes resulting in 633 deaths in 2023. Sleep expert Jeff Kahn points to the danger of nodding off for a few seconds while on the road. These 'microsleeps,' he tells BuzzFeed, 'might not seem like much, [but] on a highway traveling at 65 mph, those seconds can mean the difference between life and death.' If you're getting in late, coming back from a long journey or just feel sluggish (whether you've traveled or not), ask a friend to give you a ride home or order an Uber. Fashion is getting fishy. While sardine-inspired prints are having a moment right now, the best way to jump on the Sardine Summer trend in our book is to pop some tinned fish in your pantry. Sardines are packed with protein and heart-healthy omega-3s, plus calcium and vitamin D. They also make a flavor-packed addition to any basic dish, from pizza to pasta. Try sneaking them into your pasta salad or add a few to your next charcuterie board. Eggs and orange juice are a part of the classic American breakfast. But did you know you can use OJ to make your scrambled eggs extra fluffy too? Our friends at the Takeout say that whisking eggs with a splash of juice before cooking kicks off a chemical reaction: The acid loosens the proteins, helping them trap more air. The result? Light, airy scrambled eggs. Just keep in mind that these eggs will be a bit sweeter than average. If you want a more savory taste, try adding lemon juice instead. Is your junk drawer full of wired headphones you're not sure what to do with? Store them in your carry-on suitcase, a pro-organizer tells House Beautiful. That way, you'll be ready to tune in on your next flight, saving you the hassle and expense of buying a new pair. Many Americans do not get enough magnesium, which should be about 400 to 420 mg daily for adult men and 310 to 320 mg for adult women, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. That's a problem, because magnesium supports your immune system, helps regulate your muscle and bone function, and maintains heart health. One solution is to snack on nuts and seeds or focus on eating more magnesium-rich foods, which include spinach, black beans, avocado, bananas and dark chocolate. Wondering if you really need to eat before hitting the weights? The short answer: Probably. While fasted lifting might work for early risers or those with extra-sensitive stomachs, most people will feel and perform better with some fuel. That means working out when you've had a meal in the last three to four hours or a snack in the last hour, dietitian Jason Machowsky tells Women's Health. Confused about what to eat? Avoid fatty foods right before your workout. And according to dietitian Mallory Aldred, it's best to skip 'new foods, spicy foods, high-fiber foods that produce gas and anything that you're intolerant to'; you don't want to run to the restroom while at the squat rack. Try something like an egg and a piece of toast or string cheese and a cracker. Tomatoes are in season. Do you know the right way to clean them to get rid of any potential dirt, pesticides and bacteria residue? Simply Recipes breaks it down: Start by rinsing them thoroughly under cool running water, then use clean hands to gently rub the surface of each tomato before drying them with a clean cloth or paper towel. Just make sure you skip any soap or detergent, as tomatoes can absorb them. Want to ensure you're getting a deeper clean? Soak tomatoes in a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda for every two cups of water for 12 to 15 minutes. After soaking, rinse them well under running water and pat dry. Now you're ready for your pico de gallo or BLT. Packing can be overwhelming, especially if you're trying to travel light. One easy way to make sure that all the clothes you pack will get multiple wears? Stick to a color palette so everything matches and you can get several outfit combos out of just a few items, style editor Joseph Cheatham writes in Men's Health. Neutrals like gray, black and tan are a safe bet, and you can jazz your clothes up with lightweight items like scarves, headbands or jewelry. Why would you possibly need a spatula in the bedroom? Some people are using the kitchen tool to help them make the bed, per House Digest. A spatula's flat, sturdy shape makes it ideal for sliding between the mattress and frame. The result? Crisp, hotel-style tucks. You brush your teeth. You even floss! Now, consider adding another step to your oral hygiene routine: scraping your tongue. Dentists tell Women's Health that tongue scraping removes bad bacteria from your mouth, improving your breath and even enhancing your sense of taste. 'Without enough saliva to naturally cleanse the mouth, debris lingers and accumulates on the tongue's surface,' dentist Dr. Chloe Tsang tells the outlet. Get started by brushing and flossing, then using a tongue scraper until you notice the film on your tongue is gone. Just make sure to be gentle; as with brushing and flossing, going too hard can cause trauma to the mouth.
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Woman Says Her Neighbors' Backyard Is ‘Full of Junk' — So She Was Shocked When They Asked to Put a Trampoline in Hers
A woman shared that her neighbors' backyard is 'full of junk' — and they recently asked her if they could put a trampoline for their kids on her unused land The woman said that while she feels 'a bit sorry' for her neighbors' children, she's unsure if she wants to say yes The woman is now seeking advice on how she should respondA woman shared that her neighbors — whose backyard is 'full of junk' — want to store something in her backyard, and she's unsure what to do about it. The woman detailed her experience on the 'Am I Being Unreasonable?' forum on Mumsnet, where she explained that she lives on a street with homes that have 'a bit of extra garden' in the rear of the houses because a local farmer allotted his unused land to local residents. The woman said that she keeps her bonus plot of land mowed and tidy while she decides what she wants to do with it. Meanwhile, she noted that her neighbors keeps their area full of clutter. The issue? The original poster (OP) said that the neighbors recently asked if they could put a trampoline for their kids on her unused land. Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. While the OP admitted she feels 'a bit sorry' for the neighbors' children because of the state of their own backyard, she is also torn over how to respond. 'Part of me thinks [I should] say yes as their garden at the rear of their house is awful and full of junk. But then another bit kicks in and thinks, 'No, sort your own garden out,' ' the woman said, before asking her fellow community members for advice. The vast majority of commenters said that the OP should absolutely not agree to let her neighbors use her plot of land when they are perfectly capable of decluttering their plot. 'Tell your neighbors to get lost!! Honestly, some people are so cheeky,' said one person. 'NO!!!! They need to sort their garden out. Next thing you know, their junk will seep into your 'shared' space,' added someone else. 'It's not your fault their garden is awful. If they want somewhere for their children to play, they should sort out their own space,' said yet another community member. Another person said that the OP shouldn't hold the fact that the neighbors asked against them — while also noting that they think she should deny the request. 'I don't think it's cheeky to ask: don't ask, don't get,' they said. 'But you're well within your rights to say no. If you don't want it, you don't have to have it, and I wouldn't because you'll never get rid of it.' Read the original article on People
Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
What Are DePINs? A Guide To The Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks Transforming Industries
Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks, known as DePINs, are reshaping how we interact with the physical world by merging with blockchain technology. DePINs offer a permissionless way for individuals to contribute real-world resources like bandwidth, energy or storage and earn tokens in return. This innovation creates shared infrastructure that is transparent, secure and operated by the crowd, not corporations. This article will explore how DePINs work, why they matter and which industries they are transforming. From decentralized WiFi to community-powered energy grids, DePINs are creating new incentives for people to participate in building the world's next generation of infrastructure. DePINs allow real-world services to be owned and operated by individual users instead of large corporations. Using token rewards, DePINs allow users to contribute physical resources and get paid for them. This approach can make infrastructure more accessible, affordable and suited to local needs. Traditional infrastructure is managed by a few centralized players. DePINs flip that model using open networks where anyone can run a device. The network keeps track of everything on a public blockchain, promoting transparency and making fraudulent activity difficult. Smart contracts automate transactions, so manual approval is not required to process each action. DePINs invite competition and innovation and give smaller players a chance to participate in infrastructure projects without needing massive upfront funding. DePINs work by using blockchain technology to record transactions, verify participation and manage the exchange of services. Participants install physical hardware such as routers, sensors or storage devices and share their unused capacity with the network. In return, they receive token rewards. This system allows infrastructure to be owned and operated by a broad group of users rather than a single central provider. Smart contracts help automate the network's operation. They follow predefined rules to manage service delivery and distribute rewards without manual intervention. Token incentives are used to compensate contributors and access services within the network. This creates a system where participation and usage are directly linked, helping the network sustain itself over time. This structure is sometimes described as a flywheel. The process begins when users are rewarded for contributing resources. As more people participate, the network becomes more capable and the quality of services improves. Better performance attracts additional users and potential investors. As the network grows, its value and utility increase, leading to more participation and continued expansion. DePINs are being used in a growing number of real world applications that rely on shared infrastructure. These include decentralized wireless networks that expand internet access, decentralized storage solutions that offer alternatives to traditional cloud providers and community-powered energy systems such as EV charging stations and smart energy grids. Each use case highlights how DePINs can lower costs, increase access and reduce reliance on centralized systems. Decentralized wireless networks use a peer-to-peer model to provide internet and device connectivity without relying on large telecom providers. Individuals operate physical infrastructure like routers, antennas or Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices, helping expand coverage and reduce costs, especially in underserved areas. Smartphones and sensors connect through nearby nodes, enabling more resilient and efficient communication. Projects like Helium and Pollen Mobile showcase this approach. Helium rewards users for running low-power hotspots that support IoT connectivity, while Pollen focuses on decentralized 5G networks powered by community-hosted radios. Both rely on community participation to grow infrastructure and support applications in smart cities, rural areas and logistics. Decentralized storage networks spread data across many nodes rather than relying on centralized data centers. This reduces the need for energy-intensive facilities and cuts infrastructure costs. These networks offer greater efficiency and flexibility by using underutilized storage on individual devices or small servers. They can also be deployed near renewable energy sources, making it easier to power them with solar, wind or hydro. Platforms like Filecoin and Arweave reward users for sharing storage space while securing and distributing data through blockchain protocols. Decentralized energy networks let individuals and businesses produce, store and share power without relying on major utilities. Microgrids powered by solar panels can store excess energy in local batteries and release it during peak demand or outages. Smart grids manage this in real time, improving reliability. DePIN-based EV charging networks allow people to host chargers and earn tokens from drivers. This speeds up infrastructure growth and supports cleaner, more resilient energy systems. Shifting control from central providers to communities makes infrastructure more affordable, resilient and inclusive. This model lowers costs, opens doors for small-scale participants and keeps systems running during disruptions. It also encourages wider involvement in building and maintaining essential services like internet access, energy and storage. By removing intermediaries, DePINs cut infrastructure costs and enable direct participation. People in underserved areas can share or access resources, lowering barriers and expanding access to essential services like internet, energy and storage. Without centralized overhead, services are often more affordable and better suited to local needs. They also boost efficiency by using underutilized resources instead of building new systems, reducing waste, and supporting a more sustainable model. Greater resilience is achieved by distributing infrastructure across many independent nodes, which reduces the risk of a single point of failure. Unlike centralized systems that can be disrupted by outages, cyberattacks or physical damage to a central hub, decentralized networks can continue operating even if some nodes go offline. This built-in redundancy ensures more consistent service. The distributed nature of DePINs also enhances security and privacy, making them less vulnerable to censorship, surveillance or control by any single entity. Infrastructure is becoming more open and participatory through decentralized networks that let individuals and communities build and operate essential services. Instead of relying on a few centralized providers, these networks use blockchain and tokens to incentivize anyone to contribute. This model promotes transparency, reduces entry barriers and supports broader access to services like the internet, data storage and EV charging. As the sector grows, DePINs are helping prevent monopolies by enabling multiple stakeholders to share ownership and development. This shift toward shared infrastructure encourages competition, lowers prices and fosters innovation across industries. Despite their potential, DePINs face hurdles that could slow growth. Scaling across many nodes can strain performance and reliability. Regulatory uncertainty adds compliance risks as laws around digital assets evolve. Adoption may also lag, since these systems often require technical know-how and a shift from familiar centralized models. Relying on distributed funding and operations makes scaling difficult. Token incentives and crowdfunding are inclusive but often inconsistent and harder to coordinate than traditional methods, which can limit growth and deter institutional investment. Without central oversight, upkeep and troubleshooting depend on individuals who may not act quickly, risking delays and reduced network reliability. Regulatory uncertainty remains a significant obstacle for projects building decentralized infrastructure. Operating at the intersection of blockchain, hardware and real-world services, these networks face unique challenges that most crypto sectors avoid. Unlike purely digital applications, they involve physically deploying assets like wireless hotspots, storage nodes and energy systems. Yet regulators have provided little clarity on token classification, governance, data privacy or global compliance. This lack of guidance leaves builders exposed to enforcement and legal ambiguity. Adding to the difficulty is the political influence of legacy industries. Telecoms, cloud providers and utilities often fund PACs and lobbying efforts that can shape regulation to preserve their dominance. This creates an uneven playing field. Without clear, balanced rules, innovation risks being stifled before it can scale. A wide range of use cases, from wireless and storage to community-run services, makes presenting a clear, relatable message challenging. The technical nature of many projects further slows product-market fit and mainstream traction. Without strong messaging and user-friendly design, adoption may lag. To scale, the sector must simplify its value proposition and show how these networks improve real-world services in practical, accessible ways. Industries with high capital needs and little competition are already seeing DePIN adoption. Helium built a decentralized network of IoT and mobile hotspots, partnering with T-Mobile to offer lower-cost service. Hivemapper and Geodnet collect geospatial data through user-operated devices, feeding navigation and AI systems. These community-driven networks replace expensive, centralized models with cheaper, more scalable alternatives. In AI infrastructure, projects like Grass let users monetize bandwidth for data scraping, while Akash enables decentralized GPU leasing. Bittensor, part of decentralized AI, supports compute-focused subnets. Together, these efforts shift control over data and compute away from tech giants and toward individuals. The future of these networks is poised to extend well beyond current applications, potentially reshaping industries like healthcare, transportation, environmental monitoring, and public safety. As AI and machine learning evolve, DePINs can supply the decentralized compute, real-world data, and infrastructure needed to train and launch advanced models. Their integration into the broader Web3 ecosystem also enables greater user ownership, data privacy, and interoperability across decentralized applications. By removing traditional gatekeepers and distributing control, DePINs could serve as the backbone for a more open, efficient, and resilient digital-physical economy bridging the gap between Web3 innovation and real-world utility. Bottom Line Control is shifting from centralized providers to individuals and communities. By using blockchain and smart contracts, these networks improve transparency, lower costs and boost resilience across sectors like the internet, storage and energy. Though still early, DePINs are already making an impact in telecom and AI, and are positioned to transform many more industries in the years ahead. What Are DePINs? DePINs are decentralized networks that use blockchain to let individuals share real-world resources like the internet, energy or storage in exchange for token rewards. What Makes DePIN Different From Other Decentralized Systems? DePINs connect blockchain to real-world infrastructure by using physical devices like routers, sensors and GPUs. Unlike purely digital systems, it bridges the gap between the digital and physical worlds. Are DePINs Safe And Secure? Yes, DePINs use encryption, blockchain verification and decentralized design to enhance security and reduce single points of failure. Can DePIN Replace Traditional Infrastructure? DePIN has the potential to complement or replace parts of traditional infrastructure by offering lower costs, greater resilience and broader access.
Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
Tax Breaks: The Lights, Camera, Reality Television Edition
Some reality TV stars have faced tax issues of the years. Here's something that you might not know about me: I once appeared on a reality television show. It wasn't as exciting as 'Survivor' or 'Amazing Race'—there were no competitions, fabulous prizes, or tropical locations. Instead, the show, 'Surviving Motherhood,' was taped in a local coffee shop and my first home. It was a documentary-type series that focused on challenges faced by young parents. My worry—and the reason that I agreed to be on the show—was sleep-related, as one of my children suffered from night terrors (if you've never witnessed them, I can promise they live up to the name). Shortly after the experience, I told a local newspaper, 'It was a lot of fun, but we're done.' That isn't to say I'm not a fan of reality TV—I am (well, some shows). I just think about them differently now. Over the years, that's informed some of my reporting on the stars of those shows as they've struggled with tax issues. Unlike when I was on 'Surviving Motherhood' (where we weren't compensated), reality TV stars today can earn a substantial amount of money, both on the show and through related endorsements. That can sometimes land those stars in trouble. That's what happened to Julie and Todd Chrisley, who rose to fame as stars of the reality television show 'Chrisley Knows Best.' The successful series followed the Chrisley family, including adult children and Todd Chrisley's mother, inspiring several spinoffs. Part of the series' appeal was the family's lavish lifestyle. In 2019, the Chrisleys were indicted on charges including conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit tax evasion. On June 7, 2022, a jury convicted the Chrisleys on all counts. Todd received a 12-year prison term, and Julie received a seven-year sentence. (Their tax accountant received a three-year sentence.) This week, President Donald Trump announced that he was pardoning the Chrisleys. In a video that appeared on X (formerly Twitter), Trump called the Chrisleys' daughter, Savannah Chrisley, who spoke at the Republican Convention last July and appeared on Lara Trump's Fox News show early this month, to share the news. The announcement capped off a remarkable string of pardons: President Trump has pardoned at least five well-connected people who either pleaded guilty or were convicted of tax fraud and other crimes. That message, argues Howard Gleckman, is likely to further erode public confidence in the income tax system and increase public perceptions that the wealthy don't pay their fair share of taxes. And the pardons are likely to further lower morale at the IRS and among career employees at the Justice Department, where investigators and attorneys worked for years to prosecute these cases of tax fraud. Of course, not all failures to pay result in criminal charges. As Peter Reilly notes, 'If you are really stubborn, you can hold out on paying the IRS for a really long time. With luck, the statute of limitations on collection might bail you out.' That's because if the IRS does not collect within 10 years of assessing a tax, you are generally home free. However, there are complications and ways in which the 10-year clock can be stopped—just ask Glen Stoll. Stoll, a Washington resident, accumulated quite a tax bill in the early 2000s. The IRS brought an action against him to collect, and, according to Judge Thomas Zilly, throughout the litigation, Stoll repeatedly sought extensions and failed to comply with deadlines. In the end, Zilly ruled that the IRS assessment of $1,265,461.89 was 'reduced to judgment.' The 10-year clock will no longer tick, writes Reilly, because it has been smashed. One way to avoid judgment is to resolve your tax issues before they escalate. One way out? A settlement tool known as a 'qualified offer.' A qualified offer allows taxpayers to send their own version of a '90-day letter' to resolve the matter. Here's what's great about it: If a taxpayer makes a valid qualified offer that is not accepted, but later receives a decision that is at least as favorable as the qualified offer, then the taxpayer is eligible to recover attorneys' fees from the date of the qualified offer through the end of the dispute. The prospect of recovering attorneys' fees enables taxpayers who otherwise would be unable to afford to battle the IRS to do so. Making a qualified settlement offer can help settle a tax dispute quickly. Of course, when making overtures to the IRS, you'll want to choose a legitimate tax professional, including choosing a tax return preparer. The IRS has warned taxpayers away from seeking out a ghost tax preparer. A ghost preparer is a tax preparer who isn't on the IRS' radar because they do not have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). To remain hidden, a ghost preparer will accept payment from a taxpayer to prepare a tax return but will not sign the return, which means the return will appear to be self-prepared. (For e-filed returns, the ghost preparer typically prepares the return but refuses to digitally sign as the paid preparer.) That can backfire spectacularly, since taxpayers are responsible for what's on their tax return. Ghost preparers often tout "big and fast" tax refunds to taxpayers by including incentives to cheat. That's what happened in Georgia, where a ghost tax preparer, Allen Brown, trained his employees to prepare false income tax returns. Since taxpayers could receive inflated tax refunds by participating in the scheme, Brown and another individual offered clients two bold filing options: 'Standard' or 'I'm Not Scared.' The 'Standard' option generally resulted in a fraudulent tax refund of $2,000 to $9,000, while the 'I'm Not Scared' option generally resulted in a fraudulent tax refund of $14,000 to $30,000. After a guilty plea, Brown faces up to 20 years in prison. Although it can sometimes feel like the bad eggs get all of the attention in the media (cautionary tales, I hope), the reality is that there are loads of great tax professionals out there. Last week, I announced that I was giving my series focused on getting to know tax professionals a reboot. I was really blown away by the response—I've received so many nominations already. If you'd like to recommend a tax professional to be featured, send your suggestions to kerb@ with the subject: Getting To Know You Tuesday. Self-nominations are totally okay and encouraged. Next week promises to be another exciting week as the Senate tackles the reconciliation bill—so stay tuned. Over the weekend, my house will be tuning in to the UEFA Champions League Final (it's Paris Saint-Germain v. Inter Milan). The title and a lot of money are at stake, but neither team is hurting for assets. Both made our Forbes list of the world's most valuable soccer teams, though not at #1. You can click through the list to see who's at the top here. Enjoy your weekend, Kelly Phillips Erb (Senior Writer, Tax) When it comes to taxes, a first-time job can be intimidating. This week, a taxpayer asked: My teenage daughter got her first job this summer. What do we need to tell her about money and taxes? Congratulations to both of you! Summer is a great time to earn a little money and gain real-world work experience for first-timers, college students, and workers looking for flexibility. I'm assuming your daughter will be an employee at her new job. However, if that's not clear, she should have that conversation before she gets started. Importantly, a worker's classification as an employee or an independent contractor isn't something you decide on your own— it depends on the job. Employees can work full-time or part-time, seasonally or year-round, temporarily or permanently. The frequency or time of year you work doesn't determine the classification. What matters most is control. The general rule is that you are an independent contractor if the person paying you has the right to control or direct only the result of the work, not the manner in which it will be done. In other words, if you're simply tasked with getting the job done—regardless of how you do it—you're likely an independent contractor. However, if the person paying you gives you instructions about when, where, and how to do the work, you're likely an employee. Ultimately, it comes down to the job description, not whether you're seasonal or paid hourly. Your daughter may not have to file a tax return (depending on her age, income, and filing status), but she will still be asked to fill out a tax form. That's because even if you meet the exemptions for income taxes, your employer is still subject to certain reporting and tax requirements. When you accept a job as an employee or as an independent contractor, you're required to fill out some paperwork to assist your employer with those requirements. That typically means Form W-4 (for employees) or Form W-9 (for independent contractors). You must provide your tax ID number (for most taxpayers, that's your Social Security Number) and indicate whether you are subject to backup withholding on the form. The new Form W-4 can be tough to figure out for some taxpayers. As a first-timer and a dependent (I'm guessing), your daughter may not need to withhold any federal tax other than payroll taxes, including Social Security and Medicare. But if you're not sure, you can use the IRS withholding estimator for extra help. Keep in mind that while there are exemptions available for the filing of federal income taxes, those same exemptions might not be available for state and local tax purposes. In fact, some state and local tax authorities impose a tax on the first dollar of earned wages with no personal exemptions. If you are subject to state and local taxes and do not have withholding from your pay, you may need to make estimated tax payments to avoid penalties and interest come tax time. If you're not sure about the rules, check with your tax professional or your state and local tax offices in advance. One last piece of advice: Often, employee benefits are limited to full-time, permanent employees, but that isn't always the case. Eligible benefits might include health insurance coverage, gym memberships, banking plans, commuter and transit benefits, employee discounts, and vacation time. And don't forget about retirement or other incentive plans: I qualified for a great employee discount and Gap's stock plan as a part-timer during law school. Be sure to ask about benefits upfront. — Do you have a tax question or matter that you think we should cover in the next newsletter? We'd love to help if we can. Check out our guidelines and submit a question here. Identity theft reports rose by 9% nationwide last year, representing the first year-over-year increase in identity theft reports since 2021. Reported incidents increased by nearly 100,000 between 2023 and 2024, suggesting that identity thieves have found new ways to evade existing protections, such as using generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create more convincing scams. Where is identity theft the worst? Florida residents reported the most issues of any state in 2024, with 528 identity theft reports for every 100,000 people living in the state, according to an analysis of Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data by All About Cookies, which focuses on online privacy and data security. The only other state with a rate in excess of 500 reports per capita was neighboring Georgia, at 517 reports per 100,000 people. Identity theft reports by state (2024) At the other end of the spectrum, South Dakota had just 94 per 100,000 people. No other state had fewer than 100 reports per capita, although Vermont was close, with 101 identity theft reports for every 100,000 residents. The data suggests that the South is a 'genuine identity theft hotspot,' being home to nine of the top 10 cities with the highest number of reported identity thefts. The South also leads the way in terms of increases in identity theft reports. Overall, identity theft reports rose in 37 states, decreased in 12 states, and remained consistent year over year in two states. For a look at some tips to help you protect yourself, check out this article. The IRS has open-sourced Direct File. The recently passed House Bill 1 (the 'Big Beautiful Bill') included a provision directing the Treasury to terminate Direct File, the IRS online tax program that allows taxpayers to file for free. The bill would also require the creation of a task force to design a better public-private partnership between the IRS and private sector tax preparation services, replacing both Free File and Direct File. But the program isn't going away quietly. This week, the IRS open-sourced Direct File—more specifically, it released the codebase underlying the free filing program on GitHub, a cloud-based platform for software development that allows developers to store, share, and collaborate on code projects. The result is that it has been released into the public domain. It's unclear whether the post is officially attributed to the IRS, but it seems to be the case. If it is, that's a big deal. This is because open-source software is free and publicly available for use, modification, and sharing with and by anyone. Some famous examples include Audacity (sound editing) and Mozilla Firefox (a popular browser). If the tax code is going to be enforced by machines, and the preparation calculated and handled by the same, the rules those machines follow should be legible and contestable, argues Andrew Leahey. The open-sourcing of Direct File hints at a future where regulatory logic and automated decision-making aren't hidden, but published like case law—reviewable, revisable, and maybe even improved by the very public it serves. 📅 June 16, 2025. Due date for individuals living and working abroad to file their 2024 federal income tax return and pay any tax due. 📅 September 30, 2025. Due date for individuals and businesses impacted by recent terrorist attacks in Israel. 📅 October 15, 2025. Due date for individuals and businesses affected by wildfires and straight-line winds in southern California that began on January 7, 2025. 📅 November 3, 2025. Due date for individuals and businesses affected by storms in Arkansas and Tennessee that began on April 2, 2025. 📅 June 16-19, 2025. Latino Tax Fest. MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada. Registration required. 📅 June 18, 2025. Avalara CRUSH on Tour. Bridgeport Art Center (Skyline Loft), 1200 W. 35th Street, Chicago, IL 60609. Registration required. 📅 June 26, 2025. Avalara CRUSH on Tour. Iron23 (Flatiron District), 29 West 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010. Registration required. 📅 July 18-19, 2025. Tax Retreat "Anti Conference." Denver, Colorado. Registration required. 📅 July 21-23, 2025. National Association of Tax Professionals Taxposium 2025. Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, Nevada. Registration required. 📅 July 22-24, 2025. Bridging the Gap Conference. Denver Marriott Tech Center, 4900 S. Syracuse Street, Denver, Colorado. Registration required. 📅 July 28-30, 2025. Tax Summit 2025. Grand America Hotel, Salt Lake City. Registration required. As Congress debates the tax bill, who famously said, 'The difference between death and taxes is death doesn't get worse every time Congress meets.' As Congress debates the tax bill, who famously said, 'The difference between death and taxes is death doesn't get worse every time Congress meets.' (A) Dave Barry (B) George Carlin (C) Will Rogers (D) Mark Twain Find the answer at the bottom of this newsletter. The IRS published Internal Revenue Bulletins 2025-22 and 2025-23. The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) sent a second letter to leadership of the Senate Finance and House Ways & Means Committees urging 'modifications to troubling tax proposals' in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed by the House and being considered by the Senate, including a provision that would limit the deductibility of salt and local taxes (SALT) by certain businesses. On May 16, 2025, Moody's downgraded the United States' credit rating from Aaa to Aa1. The downgrade signals a decrease in confidence in the country's creditworthiness. According to Moody's, federal spending has increased while tax cuts have reduced government revenues. As deficits and debt have escalated, and interest rates have climbed, interest payments on government debt have increased. Without changes to taxation and spending, Moody's anticipates limited budget flexibility, with mandatory spending, including interest expenses, expected to rise to approximately 78% of total spending by 2035. 'If the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is extended, which is our base case, it will add around $4 trillion to the federal fiscal primary (excluding interest payments) deficit over the next decade,' says Moody's. It is the first time in history that all three major credit rating agencies (Moody's, S&P Global, and Fitch Ratings) have downgraded the U.S. credit below its top rating. Fried Frank announced that Brett Fieldston has joined the firm as a tax partner in New York. Fieldston joins from KPMG, where he was a principal in the international tax group, the co-leader of the group's international asset management team, and the international tax lead of the firm's US-Australia Corridor. Michelmores announced the promotion of Gemma Shepherd, who advises individuals, families, business owners, and trustees on a variety of matters, including lifetime succession planning, wills, powers of attorney, and complex estate administration. Her promotion was part of a pair that marked a significant milestone for the firm, as the proportion of female partners rose to 51%. Baker McKenzie announced that Keith Hagan has rejoined the firm's Miami office as the latest partner to join the North America Tax Practice. Hagan brings experience in renewable energy and project finance tax. KPMG LLP announced its next management committee, effective July 1, 2025. Deputy Chair and U.S. Managing Principal-elect Atif Zaim said in response, 'Our team's focus will bring together the power of our firm, leveraging the best AI-enabled solutions and technologies to meet our clients' needs.' — If you have tax and accounting career or industry news, submit it for consideration here or email me directly. Here's what readers clicked through most often in the newsletter last week: You can find the entire newsletter here. The answer is (C) Will Rogers—with a caveat. Will Rogers (1879 - 1935), American rustic comedian playing with a lasso whilst writing himself some notes, 1920. Original Publication: People Disc - HK0481 (Photo by) Rogers was an American performer and humorist born in 1879. He became well-known for his political wit, with his quips typically appearing in newspaper columns or on radio broadcasts. Rogers was most popular during the 1920s and 1930s, and this quote is typically assumed to have been made around the time of the Great Depression. Ironically, at that time, the federal income tax rates were lower than most in our history, with marginal rates ranging from 1.5% to 25%. And here's the caveat. There is no record of the original source of the quote with this wording. While most folks agree that Rogers said it, there's no confirmed date of publication or speech transcript. Rogers' comment was included in a list of tax quotes published last week—more than a few public figures, great minds, and clever observers have made their views about taxes clear. With Congress 'deep in its sausage-making with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act,' a follow-up post included a dozen or so more. How did we do? We'd love your feedback. If you have a suggestion for making the newsletter better, submit it here or email me directly.
