NEWSWIRE

IRS Extends Tax-Filing Deadline to April 17
The Internal Revenue Service opened the 2012 tax season on Wednesday by extending the tax-filing deadline until April 17.


Taxpayers Warned of Changes for Tax Season
While 2011 ended without many last-minute tax law changes aside from the payroll tax cut extension, taxpayers should still be aware of a number of changes.


Monthly Social Security Benefits Increase 3.6%
Retirees will be receiving a 3.6 percent increase in their monthly Social Security and Supplementary Security Income benefits in 2012.


Treasury Stops Selling Paper Savings Bonds
The Treasury Department has stopped selling paper U.S. savings bonds at banks, ending a tradition stretching back to 1935.


IRS Will Accept PTIN Renewals after Year-End Expiration
While all Preparer Tax Identification Numbers from last tax season expired on December 31, the Internal Revenue Service said its PTIN system would continue to accept renewals after the deadline.

NEWSWIRE

Payroll Tax Cut Extended 
Lowered Social Security tax withholding extended through Feb. 29.

2012 Mileage Rates
Most rates remain the same as they were in July.

2012 Inflation Adjustments 
Many tax benefits increase in 2012 due to inflation adjustments.

Securities America Announces Promotions

Broker-dealer Securities America announced its officer promotions for 2012.

TIGTA Recommends Tighter E-Filing Controls

Better controls are needed to ensure tax preparers filing electronically are complying with new preparer regulations, according to a report released Thursday by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.

IRS Drafts New Asset Repair Guidelines

The IRS has issued new temporary taxpayer guidelines in the Federal Register to help clarify the difference between a a repair and a capital improvement.