Glynn D Murphy CPA

10/01/2026

Fall has arrived, but the Security Summit summer series information is relevant year round
The summer days have passed, and with them, the 2026 Summer Security Summit series concluded as well. Recently, the IRS and its Security Summit partners wrapped up their annual five-week Protect Your Clients; Protect Yourself campaign. The series is geared toward tax professionals and highlights the latest scams that target tax professionals, security measures and what to do if data theft occurs.
Highlights of the 2026 Security Summit summer series
• New and emerging scams targeting tax pros: Tax professionals are reminded to review their security practices, train their employees, and be cautious of unsolicited requests. Some of the current most common scams are IRS impersonation via email, text, or phone, misleading tax advice on social media, “new client” schemes, and scams involving EFINs, PTINs, CAF numbers.
• Evolving threats and countermeasures: Spear phishing, clone phishing and whaling are some of the most common types of phishing scams designed to trick recipients into providing personal information. There are warning signs, security measures to prevent an incident, and actions to take if there is a security incident.
• The federal requirement to have a Written Information Security Plan: Tax and accounting professionals are required, by law, to have a Written Information Security Plan. A WISP includes ways to protect client data from identity theft and data breaches. The IRS has resources such as Publication 5708, Creating a Written Information Security Plan for your Tax & Accounting Practice to help develop, maintain, and update these plans.
• Strengthen defenses against tax identity theft: There are several tools available that can aid in authentication. This includes multifactor authentication, IRS Identity Protection PIN or IP PINs and secure IRS online accounts. The benefits and best practices are highlighted for each. All these tools help protect clients’ sensitive information.
• Tools and advice to help protect sensitive data: Tax pros must stay alert and utilize all tools and resources to protect sensitive taxpayer information.
What tax professionals should do if a breach occurs:
• Report the incident to a local IRS Stakeholder Liaison so the IRS can take steps to block fraudulent returns.
• Report the breach to the appropriate state tax agency through the Federation of Tax Administrators’ Report a Data Breach webpage.
• Inform affected clients and recommend protective steps, such as obtaining an Identity Protection PIN or, when appropriate, completing Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit.
There are several IRS verified social media platforms and e-News subscription services where tax-related information can be found.

09/29/2026

New IRS app gives taxpayers a new way to access services
Taxpayers now have a new way to securely access IRS tools and account services through their mobile devices. The new IRS app has replaced the former IRS2Go app. There are several features and self-service options available to help taxpayers access their tax information with ease.
Key app features for taxpayers
Taxpayers can securely sign in to the app to access available account information and self-service options, including:
• Check refund and amended-return status
• View available balance information
• Make payments and review payment activity
• View select notices and letters
• Access available tax records and transcripts
• Manage certain profile and communication preferences
• Access an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)
How to get the official IRS app
• The IRS app is free and available through the Apple App Store and Google Play.
• Current IRS2Go users do not need to download a separate app.
• Users with automatic updates enabled will receive the IRS app through the normal update process.
• Taxpayers can also visit IRS App on IRS.gov for verified links and additional information.
The IRS app does not replace IRS.gov or IRS online accounts
The IRS app is an expansion of mobile access to selected IRS Individual Online Account services but doesn’t replace IRS.gov or IRS online accounts. IRS.gov will continue to provide comprehensive tax information, guidance, forms, tools and services.
Beware of fake IRS apps or links
Taxpayers should use verified IRS links or the official IRS app listings and be cautious of look-alike apps, advertisements and unsolicited messages claiming to provide access to IRS accounts.
The IRS won’t ask taxpayers to provide sensitive personal or financial information through an unsolicited text, email, or pop-up message. Taxpayers who are unsure whether a message or app is legitimate should avoid clicking unsolicited links and use verified resources to locate the official app.
If taxpayers suspect scams or other tax-related wrongdoing, they can submit a confidential tip through the online fraud reporting tool using a smartphone, tablet, or computer at IRS.gov/submitatip.

09/22/2026

Caring for a family member or relative? Understand the special tax rules
Family members who are paid to take care of a loved one may have tax responsibilities. This depends on whether they are considered an employee or provide their services as their own business.
Let’s go over the special rules of being a family caregiver.
When a caregiver is considered an employee
A caregiver is someone who performs in-home services for elderly or disabled individuals. Generally, they are considered an employee and the person being cared for is considered the employer. This could make them responsible for employment taxes. However, there are some cases when the employer may not owe employment taxes. Some examples are when the caregiver is:
• Their spouse
• Their child under the age of 21
• Their parent, unless an exception applies
• An employee who is under the age of 18 at any time during the year, unless an exception applies
It’s important to know that even if they don’t owe employment taxes, they are still required to report the caregiver’s compensation on Form W-2. See Table 1, “Do You Need to Pay Employment Taxes” on page 5 of Publication 926, Household Employer's Tax Guide, for more information.
When a caregiver isn’t considered an employee
Sometimes, caregivers aren’t considered employees, but they are still required to report the compensation as income on their Form 1040 or 1040-SR. They may also be required to pay self-employment tax depending on the facts and circumstances.
Here are some examples of when a family member caregiver typically wouldn’t owe a self-employment tax:
• If a family member caregiver is paid by an insurance company to take care of their spouse. The taxpayer would still be required to report the income though.
• If a family member caregiver received income from a state agency to care for their grandchildren so their daughter could work. Again, the taxpayer would still be required to report any income.
When self-employment tax may apply
If the caregiver is engaged in a trade or business providing care services, they would be required to pay self-employment tax. For example:
• A caregiver received income from a state agency to care for their grandmother, and they operate a sole proprietorship adult day-care business for multiple clients, including their grandmother, in their home. The taxpayer would owe self-employment tax since the taxpayer is engaged in a trade or business of providing care giving services as a sole proprietor operator of an adult day care. The taxpayer must report the full amount of the payment as income on both Schedule C and Schedule SE.

09/14/2026

Issue Number: Tax Tip 2026-69
Estimated taxes aren’t just for the self-employed
Typically, people who are self-employed pay their federal income tax by making estimated tax payments. However, they aren’t the only ones that may need to pay estimated tax. Federal income tax is a pay-as-you-go tax. Which means the tax must be paid as income is earned or received during the year. The two ways federal taxes are paid are either through withholding or estimated tax.
Taxpayers who receive income from sources not subject to withholding or don’t have enough withheld, may have to make estimated tax payments. The next estimated tax payment due date is Sept. 15. Let’s take a closer look at who may have to pay estimated tax to ensure they are meeting their tax obligations.
Who may pay estimated tax
Self-employed individuals typically pay their tax this way. Even if a taxpayer isn’t self-employed, they still may have to pay estimated tax if they receive income from sources such as:
• Interest
• Dividends
• Alimony
• Capital gains
• Royalties
• Rents
• Prizes and awards
Generally, individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, and S corporation shareholders, must make estimated tax payments if they expect to owe tax of $1,000 or more when their return is filed. Estimated tax is used to pay not only income tax but other taxes such as self-employment tax and alternative minimum tax.
Ways to pay
Taxpayers can pay online, use Form 1040-ES and pay by mail, or by phone. Additionally, individuals can pay through their IRS Individual Online Account, where they can also see their payment history and other tax records.
Businesses can now make most common business tax payments, including estimated taxes and federal tax deposits, through their Business Tax Account or Direct Pay for businesses.
Most taxpayers who make estimated tax payments pay on a quarterly basis. However, they can also be made weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, etc. if they have paid enough in by the end of the quarter. Visit IRS.gov/payments to view all the options. For additional information, refer to Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax.
Avoid penalties
Taxpayers who didn’t pay enough tax during the year, either through withholding or by making estimated tax payments, may have to pay a penalty. Generally, the IRS can figure this penalty for them.
Knowing the requirements and paying on time is key to avoiding any penalties.
More information
• Publication 505 (2026), Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax
• IRS.gov: Estimated taxes

Make payments, view your account or apply for a payment plan with the IRS.

09/09/2026

Taxpayers have the right to retain representation
When working with the IRS, all taxpayers have the right to retain an authorized representative of their choice to act on their behalf. For taxpayers who can’t afford representation, they have the right to seek assistance from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic. This is one of the ten fundamental rights of all taxpayers in the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
What taxpayers can expect:
• Taxpayers may select someone to represent them in an interview. This could be an attorney, certified public accountant, or enrolled agent.
• Any attorney, CPA, enrolled agent, enrolled actuary or other person permitted to represent a taxpayer before the IRS, who's not disbarred or suspended from practice before the IRS, may submit a written power of attorney to represent a taxpayer before the IRS.
• Taxpayers who retain representation don't have to attend with their representative unless the IRS formally summons them to appear.
• In most situations, the IRS must suspend an interview if the taxpayer requests to consult with a representative.
• Taxpayers have the right to seek assistance from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic if they can't afford representation. They can find a LITC near them by visiting the Low Income Taxpayer Clinics page or by calling the IRS toll-free at 800-829-3676.
LITCs are independent from the IRS and the Taxpayer Advocate Service. These clinics represent individuals whose income is below a certain level and who need to resolve tax problems with the IRS. LITCs can represent taxpayers in audits, appeals and tax collection disputes before the IRS and in court. In addition, LITCs can provide information about taxpayer rights and responsibilities in different languages for individuals who speak English as a second language. Services are offered for free or for a small fee.

09/05/2026

We will be closed on Monday, September 7, 2026, in observance of Labor Day and will reopen on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 9:00 AM.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Labor Day weekend! 🇺🇸 Enjoy the holiday! ❤️🤍💙

09/02/2026

How taxpayers can reconstruct records after a disaster
Some taxpayers may need to reconstruct vital records that were lost in a disaster. Having these records is important for tax purposes, federal assistance or insurance reimbursement. Here are a few steps people who were affected by a disaster can take if they need to obtain their lost records.
Replace tax records
A recent tip explained the different types of tax transcripts and how to get them. The most common type needed after a disaster loss is a tax return transcript. Taxpayers can:
• Register to use Individual Online Account to view, print, or download their transcript(s)
• Order a transcript by mail or call the automated phone transcript service at 800-908-9946. This typically takes between 5 to 10 calendar days for delivery.
• Request by submitting Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return.
Financial and bank records
Credit card companies and banks often provide users with access to past statements.
Reconstruct personal property records
Photos, videos, canceled checks, receipts can help establish the value of damaged or lost property. They can also check online sources to help determine fair market value.
Real property records
• Property documents: Contact the title or escrow company or bank that handled the purchase of the home or other property for copies of the records.
• Home improvements: Get in touch with the contractors who did the work and ask for statements to verify the work and cost. They can also get written descriptions from friends and relatives who saw the house before and after any improvements.
• Inherited property: Check court records for probate values. If a trust or estate existed, taxpayers can contact the attorney who handled the trust.
• No records: People with no records available should check the county assessor's office for old records that might address the value of the property.
Vehicle records
Vehicle owners can research the current fair-market value for most vehicles. Resources are available online and at most libraries. They can also contact the dealer where the car was purchased and ask for a copy of the contract.
Taxpayers in a disaster area may now see personalized messages in their IRS Individual Online Account. The messages highlight tax relief, including extended filing and payment deadlines as well as a link to other disaster assistance information. They can also find news about disaster tax relief specific to their area on the Around the nation page of IRS.gov.

08/28/2026

Our office will be closed on Monday August 31st.

08/20/2026

Here is today's Tax Tip of the Day. Brought to you by the IRS

What employers need to know about the enhancements to the Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit
Employers, including small businesses, that provide paid family and medical leave to their employees may be eligible for an employer tax credit. Several enhancements have been made to this credit under the Working Families Tax Cuts.
Here’s an overview of the employer credit for Paid Family and Medical Leave, including the recent changes.
What is the employer credit for PFML?
Employers who meet the requirements can claim a general business tax credit from 12.5% to 25% of wages paid to qualifying employees for up to 12 weeks of family and medical leave per taxable year.
Employers can offer up to 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave to employees for the following reasons:
• Having a baby, adopting or fostering a child
• Taking care of their own serious health condition or for their spouse, child, or parent
• Dealing with a situation of a close relative who is a member of the Armed Forces and on covered active duty
• Taking care of a close relative who is seriously ill or an injured covered servicemember
Key enhancements:
• The credit is now permanent.
• Expanded eligibility: Employers can claim the credit for employees with six months of service and for part-time employees working 20 hours or more per week.
• Expanded coverage: Employers can claim the credit for insurance premiums paid to provide leave, or wages paid during leave.
• State and local mandates: Employers can count leave provided under state or local mandates toward the eligibility for this federal tax credit, but not toward the credit calculation.
Ways to claim the credit
Employers can claim the credit using one of these methods:
• New premium-based: Based on qualifying premiums the employer paid for PFML insurance policies
• Wage-based: Based on the wages paid while the employee is on PFML
Learn more about each method in Notice 2026-28. It compares the two methods, addresses how to allocate the qualifying premiums, and how to elect between the premium method and the wage method.

08/18/2026

IRS Tax Tip 2026-63, Aug. 18, 2026

Extension filers don’t have to wait until Oct. 15, 2026, to file their federal tax return. Taxpayers are encouraged not to wait and to take steps to help them prepare an accurate return. Let’s go over a few tips to make completing the return quick and easy.

Gather and review tax documents
Complete and accurate records can reduce errors and delays. Individual taxpayers can access their IRS Individual Online Account to view account information and transcripts, make payments, and manage communication preferences.

Use IRS Free File, if eligible
Taxpayers can see if they are eligible to file their return for free through IRS Free File. The program is available to taxpayers who had an adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less in 2025. IRS Free File is guided tax preparation and can help taxpayers determine their eligibility for many valuable tax credits.

IRS Free File Fillable Forms is available to taxpayers who are comfortable preparing and filing their own returns. Regardless of income level, taxpayers can still electronically file their returns at no cost.

Additionally, many Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly still offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals, including:

People who generally qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit
Persons with disabilities
Limited English-speaking taxpayers
Know what to look for, if choosing a tax pro
Some may choose to use a tax professional to complete and file their return. A tip earlier this year, provides important tips when choosing a tax pro.

Don’t wait until the last minute
The extension to file is not an extension to pay. The deadline for extension filers is Oct. 15, 2026. Taxpayers should file electronically and choose direct deposit for their tax refund – it's the fastest and safest way to receive their money.

Taxpayers in disaster areas may have more time to file. Information on the most recent tax relief for disaster situations is available on the IRS website.

Payment options
Those who owe taxes and can't pay their balance in full should pay as much as they can to reduce interest and penalties for late payment. The IRS has options for people who can't pay their taxes, including applying for a payment plan on IRS.gov. Taxpayers can view payment options or check their account balance online.