WASHINGTON (AP) —A divided Supreme Court on Tuesday lifted a stay on a Texas law that gives police&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-texas-2edc0f202156bf792cd531e814bbf2f5#:~:text=Under%20the%20law%2C%20any%20police,law%20could%20potentially%20take%20effect.">broad powers to arrest migrants</a>&nbsp;suspected of crossing the border illegally, while a legal battle over immigration authority plays out.

The Biden administration is suing to strike down the measure, arguing it’s a clear violation of federal authority that would hurt international relations and create chaos in administering immigration law. Texas has argued it has a right to take action over what authorities have called an ongoing crisis at the southern border.

Opponents say the law, known as Senate Bill 4, the most dramatic attempt by a state to police immigration since an Arizona law more than a decade ago, portions of which were struck down by the Supreme Court. Critics have also said the Texas law could lead to civil rights violations and racial profiling.

A federal judge in Texas struck down the law in late February, but the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals quickly stayed that ruling, leading the federal government to appeal to the Supreme Court.

The majority did not write a detailed opinion in the case, as it typical in emergency appeals. But the decision to let the law go into effect drew dissents from liberal justices Ketanji Brown Jackson, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor.

Sotomayor wrote in a blistering dissent that allowing Texas to enforce the law “invites further chaos and crisis” and “upends the federal-state balance of power that has existed for over a century"

In a separate dissent, Kagan wrote that the type of order entered by the 5th Circuit “should not spell the difference between respecting and revoking long-settled immigration law.”

Justice Amy Coney Barrett, joined by fellow conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh, suggested in a concurring opinion that her vote in favor of Texas stemmed from the technicalities of the appeals process rather than agreement with the state on the substance of the law.

“So far as I know, this Court has never reviewed the decision of a court of appeals to enter — or not enter — an administrative stay. I would not get into the business. When entered, an administrative stay is supposed to be a short-lived prelude to the main event: a ruling on the motion for a stay pending appeal,” she wrote.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals could potentially block the measure again, and either side can return to the Supreme Court once the 5th Circuit acts.

Texas Gov Greg Abbott said the ruling allows Texas to begin enforcing the law, calling the decision a “positive development” while noting that an appeals court is still weighing whether the law is constitutional. He has previously said Texas has a right to take action on the border crisis.

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice is “prepared to handle any influx in population” spokeswoman Amanda Hernandez said in a statement.

Other Texas officials sounded a cautious note.

“A lot of the local police chiefs here, we don’t believe it will survive a constitutional challenge. It doesn’t look like it’s going to, because a Texas peace officer is not trained. We have no training whatsoever to determine whether an individual is here in this country, legally,” said Sheriff Eddie Guerra of Hidalgo County.

Guerra is also the president of the Southwestern Border Sheriffs’ Coalition representing 31 border counties from Texas to California.

The battle over the Texas immigration law is one of multiple legal disputes between Texas officials and the Biden administration over how far the state can go to patrol the Texas-Mexico border and prevent illegal border crossings.

Several Republican governors have backed Gov. Greg Abbott’s efforts, saying the federal government is not doing enough to enforce existing immigration laws.

The Supreme Court in 2012 struck down key parts of an Arizona law that would have allowed police to arrest people for federal immigration violations, often referred to by opponents as the “show me your papers” bill. The divided high court found then that the impasse in Washington over immigration reform did not justify state intrusion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683898210525.png" alt="Photo Texas Dept. of Public Safety" />
 <figcaption>Photo Texas Dept. of Public Safety</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —A divided Supreme Court on Tuesday lifted a stay on a Texas law that gives police&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-texas-2edc0f202156bf792cd531e814bbf2f5#:~:text=Under%20the%20law%2C%20any%20police,law%20could%20potentially%20take%20effect.">broad powers to arrest migrants</a>&nbsp;suspected of crossing the border illegally, while a legal battle over immigration authority plays out.The Biden administration is suing to strike down the measure, arguing it’s a clear violation of federal authority that would hurt international relations and create chaos in administering immigration law. Texas has argued it has a right to take action over what authorities have called an ongoing crisis at the southern border.Opponents say the law, known as Senate Bill 4, the most dramatic attempt by a state to police immigration since an Arizona law more than a decade ago, portions of which were struck down by the Supreme Court. Critics have also said the Texas law could lead to civil rights violations and racial profiling.A federal judge in Texas struck down the law in late February, but the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals quickly stayed that ruling, leading the federal government to appeal to the Supreme Court.The majority did not write a detailed opinion in the case, as it typical in emergency appeals. But the decision to let the law go into effect drew dissents from liberal justices Ketanji Brown Jackson, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor.Sotomayor wrote in a blistering dissent that allowing Texas to enforce the law “invites further chaos and crisis” and “upends the federal-state balance of power that has existed for over a century"In a separate dissent, Kagan wrote that the type of order entered by the 5th Circuit “should not spell the difference between respecting and revoking long-settled immigration law.”Justice Amy Coney Barrett, joined by fellow conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh, suggested in a concurring opinion that her vote in favor of Texas stemmed from the technicalities of the appeals process rather than agreement with the state on the substance of the law.“So far as I know, this Court has never reviewed the decision of a court of appeals to enter — or not enter — an administrative stay. I would not get into the business. When entered, an administrative stay is supposed to be a short-lived prelude to the main event: a ruling on the motion for a stay pending appeal,” she wrote.The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals could potentially block the measure again, and either side can return to the Supreme Court once the 5th Circuit acts.Texas Gov Greg Abbott said the ruling allows Texas to begin enforcing the law, calling the decision a “positive development” while noting that an appeals court is still weighing whether the law is constitutional. He has previously said Texas has a right to take action on the border crisis.The Texas Department of Criminal Justice is “prepared to handle any influx in population” spokeswoman Amanda Hernandez said in a statement.Other Texas officials sounded a cautious note.“A lot of the local police chiefs here, we don’t believe it will survive a constitutional challenge. It doesn’t look like it’s going to, because a Texas peace officer is not trained. We have no training whatsoever to determine whether an individual is here in this country, legally,” said Sheriff Eddie Guerra of Hidalgo County.Guerra is also the president of the Southwestern Border Sheriffs’ Coalition representing 31 border counties from Texas to California.The battle over the Texas immigration law is one of multiple legal disputes between Texas officials and the Biden administration over how far the state can go to patrol the Texas-Mexico border and prevent illegal border crossings.Several Republican governors have backed Gov. Greg Abbott’s efforts, saying the federal government is not doing enough to enforce existing immigration laws.The Supreme Court in 2012 struck down key parts of an Arizona law that would have allowed police to arrest people for federal immigration violations, often referred to by opponents as the “show me your papers” bill. The divided high court found then that the impasse in Washington over immigration reform did not justify state intrusion.

Supreme Court will now allow police in Texas to arrest illegal migrants

By LAAH TUCKER Natoma Lions Club

Natoma Lions Club&nbsp;continues to serve&nbsp;with a myriad of projects throughout the year with emphasis on giving sight to the blind around the world, diabetes awareness, disaster relief, and other projects Nationally and locally. Following the tragic death of Wanda Prowse, a Natoma-Paradise-Waldo USD 399 employee, the club members decided to donate proceeds from their annual pancake supper to the Prowse family.&nbsp;&nbsp;American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 members volunteered to help the Lions members in the Saturday evening project, March 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional volunteers came alongside.

The Natoma community’s acts of kindness in generous donations raised $3,029 for Dan and Colton Prowse during the Natoma Lions Club’s March pancake supper. Local businesses donated $400 to help with the event. Volunteers “flipping” pancakes included Natoma Mayor Rick Dunlap, Lion David Kertz, and Dale Eickhoff, Natoma City Council. The hometown organizations give credence to the Heartland’s heritage of serving others, and the International Lions Club motto: We Serve. For information on the Lions Club contact Lion Shawna Dunlap, club president, 785-885-4478.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710531009144.jpeg" alt="(L-R) Natoma Mayor Rick Dunlap, Lion David Kertz, and Dale Eickhoff, Natoma City Council, “flipped” pancakes during the annual Lions Club pancake community benefit for the Dan Prowse family. (Courtesy&nbsp;Linda Crawford)" />
 <figcaption>(L-R) Natoma Mayor Rick Dunlap, Lion David Kertz, and Dale Eickhoff, Natoma City Council, “flipped” pancakes during the annual Lions Club pancake community benefit for the Dan Prowse family. (Courtesy&nbsp;Linda Crawford)</figcaption>
 </figure>By LAAH TUCKER Natoma Lions ClubNatoma Lions Club&nbsp;continues to serve&nbsp;with a myriad of projects throughout the year with emphasis on giving sight to the blind around the world, diabetes awareness, disaster relief, and other projects Nationally and locally. Following the tragic death of Wanda Prowse, a Natoma-Paradise-Waldo USD 399 employee, the club members decided to donate proceeds from their annual pancake supper to the Prowse family.&nbsp;&nbsp;American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 members volunteered to help the Lions members in the Saturday evening project, March 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional volunteers came alongside.The Natoma community’s acts of kindness in generous donations raised $3,029 for Dan and Colton Prowse during the Natoma Lions Club’s March pancake supper. Local businesses donated $400 to help with the event. Volunteers “flipping” pancakes included Natoma Mayor Rick Dunlap, Lion David Kertz, and Dale Eickhoff, Natoma City Council. The hometown organizations give credence to the Heartland’s heritage of serving others, and the International Lions Club motto: We Serve. For information on the Lions Club contact Lion Shawna Dunlap, club president, 785-885-4478.

Natoma Lions Club Pancake Supper gives credence to the Heartland’s generosity

SALINA — Two&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;clubs, Flight Team and Women's Air Race Team, are planning&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/visitor-information/open-house/community.html">Flight Fest</a>&nbsp;during K-State Salina's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/visitor-information/open-house/">open house</a>&nbsp;on April 6.

Flight Fest will feature a Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, WINGS safety seminar about Controlled Flight into Terrain, or CFIT, on the K-State Ramp at the Salina Regional Airport. The dynamic event will also include an exclusive tour of the campus's aeronautics program, kids activities and a pancake feed, where donations will be accepted to support the student aviation competitive clubs.

The FAA WINGS CFIT seminar is a crucial training for ensuring the safety of the K-State Salina aviation program and its pilots. Terrain-related accidents remain a significant concern in aviation, often resulting in fatalities and substantial aircraft damage. By educating aviators about the causes, warning signs and preventive measures, the seminar enhances the safety awareness and risk mitigation efforts of aviators.

"Attendees will gain valuable knowledge and skills to effectively manage terrain-related challenges, such as terrain awareness, effective communication and adherence to standard operating procedures," said Sydney Oyer, senior in the professional pilot program and member of the Women's Air Race team,&nbsp;Gardner. "This proactive approach not only fosters a culture of safety within our school but also contributes to reducing accident rates and promoting professionalism within the aviation community. Ultimately, the seminar plays a vital role in safeguarding lives, protecting assets and upholding regulatory compliance standards in aviation operations."

Proceeds raised from Flight Fest will support travel, lodging and registration fees for K-State Salina's competitive student aviation teams, Flight Team and Women's Air Race Team. Flight Team competes in regional and national competitions where students compete against and network with their peers from other universities around the country. The Women’s Air Race Team will compete in a national competition called the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airraceclassic.org/">Air Race Classic</a>&nbsp;from June 18-21. Women pilots from across the United States and around the world fly more than 2,600 statute miles through 11 states.

Those arriving for Flight Fest by air can utilize parking provided by Salina-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.avflight.com/Network/KSLN">AvFlight</a>. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Those interested in the FAA WINGS Program Seminar must&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8kv8Kfs3mzmz159wTQiOd4HOY9v_TyCD9KpxA1zb6rZkXQQ/viewform?fce_id=0a6d173c-efac-46c1-bd15-9eddac21ce27">register</a>&nbsp;by March 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653312965950.png" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA — Two&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;clubs, Flight Team and Women's Air Race Team, are planning&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/visitor-information/open-house/community.html">Flight Fest</a>&nbsp;during K-State Salina's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/visitor-information/open-house/">open house</a>&nbsp;on April 6.Flight Fest will feature a Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, WINGS safety seminar about Controlled Flight into Terrain, or CFIT, on the K-State Ramp at the Salina Regional Airport. The dynamic event will also include an exclusive tour of the campus's aeronautics program, kids activities and a pancake feed, where donations will be accepted to support the student aviation competitive clubs.The FAA WINGS CFIT seminar is a crucial training for ensuring the safety of the K-State Salina aviation program and its pilots. Terrain-related accidents remain a significant concern in aviation, often resulting in fatalities and substantial aircraft damage. By educating aviators about the causes, warning signs and preventive measures, the seminar enhances the safety awareness and risk mitigation efforts of aviators."Attendees will gain valuable knowledge and skills to effectively manage terrain-related challenges, such as terrain awareness, effective communication and adherence to standard operating procedures," said Sydney Oyer, senior in the professional pilot program and member of the Women's Air Race team,&nbsp;Gardner. "This proactive approach not only fosters a culture of safety within our school but also contributes to reducing accident rates and promoting professionalism within the aviation community. Ultimately, the seminar plays a vital role in safeguarding lives, protecting assets and upholding regulatory compliance standards in aviation operations."Proceeds raised from Flight Fest will support travel, lodging and registration fees for K-State Salina's competitive student aviation teams, Flight Team and Women's Air Race Team. Flight Team competes in regional and national competitions where students compete against and network with their peers from other universities around the country. The Women’s Air Race Team will compete in a national competition called the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airraceclassic.org/">Air Race Classic</a>&nbsp;from June 18-21. Women pilots from across the United States and around the world fly more than 2,600 statute miles through 11 states.Those arriving for Flight Fest by air can utilize parking provided by Salina-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.avflight.com/Network/KSLN">AvFlight</a>. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Those interested in the FAA WINGS Program Seminar must&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8kv8Kfs3mzmz159wTQiOd4HOY9v_TyCD9KpxA1zb6rZkXQQ/viewform?fce_id=0a6d173c-efac-46c1-bd15-9eddac21ce27">register</a>&nbsp;by March 26.

K-State Salina aviation students to host FAA WINGS Program Seminar during campus's open house

FRANKLIN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Ottawa Police&nbsp;reported that 74-year-old Linda Duncan was located and is now safe.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Statewide Silver Alert is now canceled.&nbsp;

FRANKLIN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Ottawa Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Ottawa woman.&nbsp;

The Ottawa Police Department is asking for help locating&nbsp; missing 74-year-old Linda K. Duncan, from Ottawa, Kansas. Linda is 5-foot-2, 145 pounds, with white hair and blue eyes.

 She may be driving a Red/Maroon, 2007, Kia, Rondo, displaying Kansas License Plate 040-GSY. The vehicle is registered to an address in Ottawa, Kansas.

The vehicle was last seen traveling near the intersection of Webb and Kellogg Streets in Wichita, Kansas on March 7, 2024, at 4:08 p.m. It is not known why Linda would be traveling in the Wichita area.

The department asks anyone with information to contact Ottawa Police Department at 785-242-1700 (Police Dispatch) or immediately call 911. Anyone with tips or information can email the department at&nbsp;opdtips@ottawaks.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709983374536.png" alt="Linda Duncan courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Linda Duncan courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FRANKLIN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Ottawa Police&nbsp;reported that 74-year-old Linda Duncan was located and is now safe.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Statewide Silver Alert is now canceled.&nbsp;--------------FRANKLIN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Ottawa Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Ottawa woman.&nbsp;The Ottawa Police Department is asking for help locating&nbsp; missing 74-year-old Linda K. Duncan, from Ottawa, Kansas. Linda is 5-foot-2, 145 pounds, with white hair and blue eyes. She may be driving a Red/Maroon, 2007, Kia, Rondo, displaying Kansas License Plate 040-GSY. The vehicle is registered to an address in Ottawa, Kansas.The vehicle was last seen traveling near the intersection of Webb and Kellogg Streets in Wichita, Kansas on March 7, 2024, at 4:08 p.m. It is not known why Linda would be traveling in the Wichita area.The department asks anyone with information to contact Ottawa Police Department at 785-242-1700 (Police Dispatch) or immediately call 911. Anyone with tips or information can email the department at&nbsp;opdtips@ottawaks.gov.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled, missing Kansas woman found

By JULIA DEBES Kansas Wheat

Sharing the wonder and inner workings of the wheat industry from the farm to the miller to the baker to the end consumer is one of the goals of the Wheat Foods Council, which recently held its annual board meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in February 2024. Building those connections along the wheat value chain is a major role of the organization, according to Kansas wheat farmer Ron Suppes, who is chairing the Wheat Foods Council this year.&nbsp;

“One of the aspects of the Wheat Foods Council I really enjoy is the ability to talk to different industries connected with wheat,” Suppes said. “It’s not just wheat farmers. This is millers and bakers who are also members, so you’re able to get a really good perspective of what’s going on out there in the industry. Plus, I’m able to interact with them and spread the word about farming and what’s involved.”&nbsp;

Suppes assumed his role as WFC chairman at the organization’s summer board meeting in Denver in June 2023. He and his wife Shirley, along with son Shayne, farm roughly 12,000 acres in west central Kansas. Wheat and sorghum make up their primary crops. Suppes has served as a Kansas wheat commissioner since 2003, serving as chairman in 2013-2014, and serves as chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation.&nbsp;

Suppes has also traveled extensively overseas with U.S. Wheat Associates as a member of the USW Board of Directors, having served as chairman of the wheat industry’s export market development arm from 2007-2008.&nbsp;

Growers like Suppes are an important voice in the Wheat Foods Council, which was established by wheat producers in 1972 to promote the entire category of wheat-based foods, including baked goods, cereal, crackers, pasta, sweet goods and tortillas. Since then, the organization has established itself as a leading source of science-based information on wheat and grain foods nutrition.&nbsp;

At the council’s meeting in February, SRG Marketing Firm, a marketing agency representing the Wheat Foods Council, reviewed the first half of the 2023-2024 marketing program coined “Research, Recipes, Resources.” In the first seven months of this work, the firm reported progress from an updated logo for the Wheat Foods Council, reports on declining search engine results for low-carb and gluten-free diets and use of information from the council by the Oregon Public Broadcasting Service. Recipes like breakfast pitas and blueberry-maple granola are gaining popularity, especially in fitness apps and online subscriptions. The firm also reported on the success of messages on the wonders of wheat, crowd-pleasing taste, sustained energy and plant-powered nutrition.&nbsp;

Close to Suppes’ heart, the firm is also working on messaging related to the concept that consumers trust growers and trust family farms. The goal of the campaign is to tie producers to consumers.&nbsp;

Next June, the organization’s summer meeting will come to Manhattan, Kansas. Suppes explained the plan is to highlight the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, the Hal Ross Flour Mill and the IGP Institute, along with some of the brightest minds in the global wheat industry. Then, he’ll pass the baton to Mark Hotze, Vice President, North America of Corbion, who currently serves as the council’s vice chair.&nbsp;

Learn more about the Wheat Foods Council at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001m2KgHO2k1Zp8EJLxcAOXGq9z1ny9qdO8cFPmFEw-VXCVmzg2STgQRsgFt7wDYZ6tR4GI0UBAuDqw7_j3tu5WE--DOP1FstKEqR9pGtQSOncVZvCmWvWPHQOY-WZ01XuryxsgBzCt4y--LE0JWbYk_KE2L6wI7X1Q&amp;c=_kZ46Ig3aNTI_CxVtp1gsEwZ1sr2qrXY6ztv1MnZhys4V68yPZzy8A==&amp;ch=3DYYl3u_5lX1cIPk0Z2H0cL3yJSg6XG4JzdvhLdcpVqWBHspCIbGmg==">https://www.wheatfoods.org/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628192917024.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatSharing the wonder and inner workings of the wheat industry from the farm to the miller to the baker to the end consumer is one of the goals of the Wheat Foods Council, which recently held its annual board meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in February 2024. Building those connections along the wheat value chain is a major role of the organization, according to Kansas wheat farmer Ron Suppes, who is chairing the Wheat Foods Council this year.&nbsp;“One of the aspects of the Wheat Foods Council I really enjoy is the ability to talk to different industries connected with wheat,” Suppes said. “It’s not just wheat farmers. This is millers and bakers who are also members, so you’re able to get a really good perspective of what’s going on out there in the industry. Plus, I’m able to interact with them and spread the word about farming and what’s involved.”&nbsp;Suppes assumed his role as WFC chairman at the organization’s summer board meeting in Denver in June 2023. He and his wife Shirley, along with son Shayne, farm roughly 12,000 acres in west central Kansas. Wheat and sorghum make up their primary crops. Suppes has served as a Kansas wheat commissioner since 2003, serving as chairman in 2013-2014, and serves as chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation.&nbsp;Suppes has also traveled extensively overseas with U.S. Wheat Associates as a member of the USW Board of Directors, having served as chairman of the wheat industry’s export market development arm from 2007-2008.&nbsp;Growers like Suppes are an important voice in the Wheat Foods Council, which was established by wheat producers in 1972 to promote the entire category of wheat-based foods, including baked goods, cereal, crackers, pasta, sweet goods and tortillas. Since then, the organization has established itself as a leading source of science-based information on wheat and grain foods nutrition.&nbsp;At the council’s meeting in February, SRG Marketing Firm, a marketing agency representing the Wheat Foods Council, reviewed the first half of the 2023-2024 marketing program coined “Research, Recipes, Resources.” In the first seven months of this work, the firm reported progress from an updated logo for the Wheat Foods Council, reports on declining search engine results for low-carb and gluten-free diets and use of information from the council by the Oregon Public Broadcasting Service. Recipes like breakfast pitas and blueberry-maple granola are gaining popularity, especially in fitness apps and online subscriptions. The firm also reported on the success of messages on the wonders of wheat, crowd-pleasing taste, sustained energy and plant-powered nutrition.&nbsp;Close to Suppes’ heart, the firm is also working on messaging related to the concept that consumers trust growers and trust family farms. The goal of the campaign is to tie producers to consumers.&nbsp;Next June, the organization’s summer meeting will come to Manhattan, Kansas. Suppes explained the plan is to highlight the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, the Hal Ross Flour Mill and the IGP Institute, along with some of the brightest minds in the global wheat industry. Then, he’ll pass the baton to Mark Hotze, Vice President, North America of Corbion, who currently serves as the council’s vice chair.&nbsp;Learn more about the Wheat Foods Council at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001m2KgHO2k1Zp8EJLxcAOXGq9z1ny9qdO8cFPmFEw-VXCVmzg2STgQRsgFt7wDYZ6tR4GI0UBAuDqw7_j3tu5WE--DOP1FstKEqR9pGtQSOncVZvCmWvWPHQOY-WZ01XuryxsgBzCt4y--LE0JWbYk_KE2L6wI7X1Q&amp;c=_kZ46Ig3aNTI_CxVtp1gsEwZ1sr2qrXY6ztv1MnZhys4V68yPZzy8A==&amp;ch=3DYYl3u_5lX1cIPk0Z2H0cL3yJSg6XG4JzdvhLdcpVqWBHspCIbGmg==">https://www.wheatfoods.org/</a>.

Wheat Foods Council brings the value chain together from farmer to consumer during winter board meeting

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking the public’s assistance in locating 21-year-old Dawson Edward Paine.

He is suspected in a deadly shooting Tuesday night in the 2900 block of Crestline Drive, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.

Just after 10:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a residence where Paine allegedly shot 18-year-old&nbsp; Davin Gregory Kerr of Lawrence.

After the shooting, Paine left the area prior to the arrival of officers. Kerr was transported by ambulance to a Kansas City area trauma center where he was later pronounced dead.

Police ask that anyone who may have information on the whereabouts of Dawson Paine call 911. He should be considered armed and dangerous, and no one should try approach or contact him other than law enforcement.&nbsp;

Contact police anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at (785)843-TIPS (8477).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709737558547.png" alt="Paine photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Paine photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking the public’s assistance in locating 21-year-old Dawson Edward Paine.He is suspected in a deadly shooting Tuesday night in the 2900 block of Crestline Drive, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.Just after 10:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a residence where Paine allegedly shot 18-year-old&nbsp; Davin Gregory Kerr of Lawrence.After the shooting, Paine left the area prior to the arrival of officers. Kerr was transported by ambulance to a Kansas City area trauma center where he was later pronounced dead.Police ask that anyone who may have information on the whereabouts of Dawson Paine call 911. He should be considered armed and dangerous, and no one should try approach or contact him other than law enforcement.&nbsp;Contact police anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at (785)843-TIPS (8477).

Search continues for armed, dangerous Kan. murder suspect

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. will begin airdropping emergency humanitarian assistance into Gaza, President Joe Biden said Friday, a day after more than 100 Palestinians were killed during a chaotic encounter with Israeli troops.

The president&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">announced the move</a>&nbsp;after at least 115 Palestinians were killed and more than 750 others were injured, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, on Thursday when witnesses said Israeli troops opened fire as huge crowds raced to pull goods off an aid convoy.

Biden said the airdrops&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">would begin soon</a>&nbsp;and that the United States was looking into additional ways to facilitate getting badly needed aid into&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">the war-battered territory</a>&nbsp;to ease the suffering of Palestinians.

“In the coming days we’re going to join with our friends in Jordan and others who are providing airdrops of additional food and supplies” and will "seek to open up other avenues in, including possibly a marine corridor,” Biden said.

The president twice referred to airdrops to help Ukraine, but White House officials clarified that he was referring to Gaza.

Israel said many of the dead were trampled in a stampede linked to the chaos and that its troops fired at some in the crowd who they believed moved toward them in a threatening way. The Israeli government has said it is investigating the matter.

The head of a Gaza City hospital that treated some of those wounded said Friday that&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">more than 80% had been struck by gunfire.</a>

Biden made his announcement while hosting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White house.

“Aid flowing to Gaza is nowhere nearly enough," Biden said. "Now, it’s nowhere nearly enough. Innocent lives are on the line and children’s lives are on the line. We won’t stand by until we get more aid in there. We should be getting hundreds of trucks in, not just several.”

The White House, State Department and Pentagon had been weighing the merits of U.S. military airdrops of assistance for several months, but had held off due to concerns that the method is inefficient, has no way of ensuring the aid gets to civilians in need and cannot make up for overland aid deliveries.

Administration officials said their preference was to further increase overland aid deliveries through the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border points and to try to get Israel to open the Erez Crossing into northern Gaza.

The incident on Thursday appeared to tip the balance and push Biden to approve airdrops. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that airdrops are difficult operations, but the acute need for aid in Gaza informed the president's decision.

He stressed that ground routes will be continued to be used to get aid into Gaza, and that the airdrops are a supplemental effort.

“It’s not the kind of thing you want to do in a heartbeat. you want to think it through carefully," Kirby said. He added, “There’s few military operations that are more complicated than humanitarian assistance airdrops”

Pressure has been mounting for Biden to move more aggressively to ease Palestinian suffering, including from lawmakers of Biden’s Democratic Party. Even before Thursday’s deaths, Sen. Jack Reed, chairman of the Senate’s Armed Services Committee, wrote Biden this week to urge that the administration deploy a military hospital ship and support units to help treat Gaza’s wounded and open a sea route to Gaza for delivery of humanitarian aid.

“Yesterday’s event, I think, underscores the need to find more creative ways of getting assistance in faster and at greater scale,” Kirby said.

Egypt, France, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have already used airdrops to get aid into Gaza since the conflict started in October.

Biden in his visit with Meloni at the White House also sought to assure European leaders that the U.S. remains behind Ukraine even as he's been unable to win passage of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-aid-congress-senate-china-d7b4846de76a1dfe5d2207b7eb6eeead">supplemental foreign aid package</a>&nbsp;that includes $60 billion for Ukraine in addition to $35 billion for Israel and Taiwan. The legislation has passed the Senate, but Republican Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to put it up for a vote in the House.

Ahead of Meloni's visit, White House officials said they don't have good answers for allies about finding an end to the impasse with House Republicans and reopening the American spigot of aid to Kyiv that's badly needed as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukraine tries to fend off Russia's</a>&nbsp;invasion.

Biden, along with top Democrats and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, strongly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-johnson-israel-ukraine-shutdown-government-dc6d39b2a652130c6e3021394c1a3ee3">urged</a>&nbsp;Johnson during a White House meeting this week to take up the foreign aid package, but Johnson responded by saying that Congress “must take care of America’s needs first.”

The leaders also discussed efforts by the U.S., Egypt and Qatar to broker an extended cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, Italy's priorities for a G7 presidency, migrant flows into Italy from North Africa, and their countries' China policies.

Biden said earlier this week that a cease-fire deal could be reached by Monday, before tempering his optimism after Thursday's incident. But on Friday, Biden said he still held hope that a deal can be struck, possibly before Muslims around the globe begin observing the holy month of Ramadan that is expected to begin on March 10.

“I'm still hoping so,” Biden told reporters on Friday evening before departing the White House for the presidential retreat at Camp David, Md. "We’re still working real hard at it. We’re not there yet.”

Meloni said solving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was Italy's top priority.

“We need to coordinate our actions to avoid an escalation, and this regard we fully support the U.S. mediation efforts,” she said.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. will begin airdropping emergency humanitarian assistance into Gaza, President Joe Biden said Friday, a day after more than 100 Palestinians were killed during a chaotic encounter with Israeli troops.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Biden: &quot;We&#39;re trying to work out a deal between Israel and Hamas the hostages being returned and immediate ceasefire in Gaza for at least the next six weeks.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/caW7nQFKov">pic.twitter.com/caW7nQFKov</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1763659658089083168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The president&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">announced the move</a>&nbsp;after at least 115 Palestinians were killed and more than 750 others were injured, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, on Thursday when witnesses said Israeli troops opened fire as huge crowds raced to pull goods off an aid convoy.Biden said the airdrops&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">would begin soon</a>&nbsp;and that the United States was looking into additional ways to facilitate getting badly needed aid into&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">the war-battered territory</a>&nbsp;to ease the suffering of Palestinians.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In the coming days, the United States will carry out airdrops of aid to Gaza, redouble our efforts to open a maritime corridor, and expand deliveries by land. The aid flowing into Gaza is nowhere near enough. We all need to do more. And the United States will do more.&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1763702007469085066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“In the coming days we’re going to join with our friends in Jordan and others who are providing airdrops of additional food and supplies” and will "seek to open up other avenues in, including possibly a marine corridor,” Biden said.The president twice referred to airdrops to help Ukraine, but White House officials clarified that he was referring to Gaza.Israel said many of the dead were trampled in a stampede linked to the chaos and that its troops fired at some in the crowd who they believed moved toward them in a threatening way. The Israeli government has said it is investigating the matter.The head of a Gaza City hospital that treated some of those wounded said Friday that&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">more than 80% had been struck by gunfire.</a>Biden made his announcement while hosting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White house.“Aid flowing to Gaza is nowhere nearly enough," Biden said. "Now, it’s nowhere nearly enough. Innocent lives are on the line and children’s lives are on the line. We won’t stand by until we get more aid in there. We should be getting hundreds of trucks in, not just several.”The White House, State Department and Pentagon had been weighing the merits of U.S. military airdrops of assistance for several months, but had held off due to concerns that the method is inefficient, has no way of ensuring the aid gets to civilians in need and cannot make up for overland aid deliveries.Administration officials said their preference was to further increase overland aid deliveries through the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border points and to try to get Israel to open the Erez Crossing into northern Gaza.The incident on Thursday appeared to tip the balance and push Biden to approve airdrops. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that airdrops are difficult operations, but the acute need for aid in Gaza informed the president's decision.He stressed that ground routes will be continued to be used to get aid into Gaza, and that the airdrops are a supplemental effort.“It’s not the kind of thing you want to do in a heartbeat. you want to think it through carefully," Kirby said. He added, “There’s few military operations that are more complicated than humanitarian assistance airdrops”Pressure has been mounting for Biden to move more aggressively to ease Palestinian suffering, including from lawmakers of Biden’s Democratic Party. Even before Thursday’s deaths, Sen. Jack Reed, chairman of the Senate’s Armed Services Committee, wrote Biden this week to urge that the administration deploy a military hospital ship and support units to help treat Gaza’s wounded and open a sea route to Gaza for delivery of humanitarian aid.“Yesterday’s event, I think, underscores the need to find more creative ways of getting assistance in faster and at greater scale,” Kirby said.Egypt, France, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have already used airdrops to get aid into Gaza since the conflict started in October.Biden in his visit with Meloni at the White House also sought to assure European leaders that the U.S. remains behind Ukraine even as he's been unable to win passage of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-aid-congress-senate-china-d7b4846de76a1dfe5d2207b7eb6eeead">supplemental foreign aid package</a>&nbsp;that includes $60 billion for Ukraine in addition to $35 billion for Israel and Taiwan. The legislation has passed the Senate, but Republican Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to put it up for a vote in the House.Ahead of Meloni's visit, White House officials said they don't have good answers for allies about finding an end to the impasse with House Republicans and reopening the American spigot of aid to Kyiv that's badly needed as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukraine tries to fend off Russia's</a>&nbsp;invasion.Biden, along with top Democrats and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, strongly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-johnson-israel-ukraine-shutdown-government-dc6d39b2a652130c6e3021394c1a3ee3">urged</a>&nbsp;Johnson during a White House meeting this week to take up the foreign aid package, but Johnson responded by saying that Congress “must take care of America’s needs first.”The leaders also discussed efforts by the U.S., Egypt and Qatar to broker an extended cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, Italy's priorities for a G7 presidency, migrant flows into Italy from North Africa, and their countries' China policies.Biden said earlier this week that a cease-fire deal could be reached by Monday, before tempering his optimism after Thursday's incident. But on Friday, Biden said he still held hope that a deal can be struck, possibly before Muslims around the globe begin observing the holy month of Ramadan that is expected to begin on March 10.“I'm still hoping so,” Biden told reporters on Friday evening before departing the White House for the presidential retreat at Camp David, Md. "We’re still working real hard at it. We’re not there yet.”Meloni said solving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was Italy's top priority.“We need to coordinate our actions to avoid an escalation, and this regard we fully support the U.S. mediation efforts,” she said.___

🎥Biden: US military to airdrop food and supplies into Gaza

If a taxpayer sold goods or services in 2023 and received payments through certain payment apps or online marketplaces or accepted payment cards, they could have received a third party reporting document&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.A51zkyBxk0lMd5h6Ht9DoyCKCc0Cr9t5os06PajMQZ8/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>.

Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS announced&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.tjYFs1E7pGGfXTGpkndsSzo8DjMRi5ZLDPCAccqqlCo/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Notice 2023-74</a>, which delayed the new federal law $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.oUG_OIf39uxMZgBicF98z6JsuwQIyYjEqaDoNlyqx0M/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds remained in place for 2023, which are more than $20,000 in payments and over 200 transactions. Taxpayers could have still received forms below the threshold.

It’s important to know that regardless of if a taxpayer received a Form 1099-K or not,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUtaXJzLXJlbWluZGVyLXRvLXJlcG9ydC1hbGwtaW5jb21lLWdpZy1lY29ub215LWFuZC1zZXJ2aWNlLWluZHVzdHJ5LWRpZ2l0YWwtb3ItZm9yZWlnbi1hc3NldHMtYW5kLXNvdXJjZXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.BKcKZSSmmLf04wBwxe95ds4LhbgOCA79vzcRZhs2VdM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">they must report their income</a>. This includes payments they receive in cash, property, goods, digital assets or foreign sources or assets.

The Form 1099-K should not report personal payments like gifts and reimbursements.

It’s important to understand&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.5tAB1mFMj3NZsM0aBhB2iw2GpzG-S1zNVOWGPL3RCeg/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">why an individual received a Form 1099-K</a>. Taxpayers can then use it with their other tax records when it’s time to file their return. The form provides the gross amount of payment card/third party network transactions and may include a combination of different kinds of total payments received.

It's important to note, just because a payment is reported on a Form 1099-K does not mean it’s taxable.

Taxpayers should review the form or forms, determine if the amount is correct, and determine any deductible expenses associated with the payment they may be able to claim when they file their taxes.

If an individual sold items at a loss, which means they paid more for the items than for what they sold them, there is not a tax liability. They’ll be able to zero out the payment on their tax return by reporting both the payment and an offsetting adjustment on a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.RDXcbE65C3Mc181G2sUnfFCpvRP69h83YXH2PMZl5YY/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1040, Schedule 1</a>. This will ensure if they received these forms, they don't have to pay taxes they don't owe.

If an individual sold items at a gain, which means they paid less than for what they sold it, they will have to report that gain as income, and it's taxable.

See IRS.gov&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.YVftzmUtfO9ofijaGc6dWLXhBsfLAiGnFgNxlU7dpbA/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for specific instruction on how to report personal item sales.

What to do with a Form 1099-K received in error

People may get a Form 1099-K when they shouldn't have if it:

If the payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or gross payment amount is incorrect taxpayers should request a corrected form from the issuer.

Don't wait to file taxes. To file a tax return, take these steps:

See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.TrP-blq5a2Vt3kfVPW4mlDhFlKHHi1azDXJCRKvS5Z0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for more information on how to report an incorrect Form 1099-K.

See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.nIYdvCcNQbeNS2PFoHvck5Sgle4JXyxH3QTDgj032n0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Understanding Your Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.m1EKHm7QpmPHvcyRTffZFGPbl73S1PcHmn5Y_vIFo60/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>&nbsp;for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869881583.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Internal Revenue ServiceIf a taxpayer sold goods or services in 2023 and received payments through certain payment apps or online marketplaces or accepted payment cards, they could have received a third party reporting document&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.A51zkyBxk0lMd5h6Ht9DoyCKCc0Cr9t5os06PajMQZ8/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>.Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS announced&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.tjYFs1E7pGGfXTGpkndsSzo8DjMRi5ZLDPCAccqqlCo/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Notice 2023-74</a>, which delayed the new federal law $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.oUG_OIf39uxMZgBicF98z6JsuwQIyYjEqaDoNlyqx0M/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds remained in place for 2023, which are more than $20,000 in payments and over 200 transactions. Taxpayers could have still received forms below the threshold.It’s important to know that regardless of if a taxpayer received a Form 1099-K or not,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUtaXJzLXJlbWluZGVyLXRvLXJlcG9ydC1hbGwtaW5jb21lLWdpZy1lY29ub215LWFuZC1zZXJ2aWNlLWluZHVzdHJ5LWRpZ2l0YWwtb3ItZm9yZWlnbi1hc3NldHMtYW5kLXNvdXJjZXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.BKcKZSSmmLf04wBwxe95ds4LhbgOCA79vzcRZhs2VdM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">they must report their income</a>. This includes payments they receive in cash, property, goods, digital assets or foreign sources or assets.The Form 1099-K should not report personal payments like gifts and reimbursements.What to do when filing taxesIt’s important to understand&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.5tAB1mFMj3NZsM0aBhB2iw2GpzG-S1zNVOWGPL3RCeg/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">why an individual received a Form 1099-K</a>. Taxpayers can then use it with their other tax records when it’s time to file their return. The form provides the gross amount of payment card/third party network transactions and may include a combination of different kinds of total payments received.It's important to note, just because a payment is reported on a Form 1099-K does not mean it’s taxable.Taxpayers should review the form or forms, determine if the amount is correct, and determine any deductible expenses associated with the payment they may be able to claim when they file their taxes.Selling personal items at a lossIf an individual sold items at a loss, which means they paid more for the items than for what they sold them, there is not a tax liability. They’ll be able to zero out the payment on their tax return by reporting both the payment and an offsetting adjustment on a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.RDXcbE65C3Mc181G2sUnfFCpvRP69h83YXH2PMZl5YY/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1040, Schedule 1</a>. This will ensure if they received these forms, they don't have to pay taxes they don't owe.Selling personal items at a gainIf an individual sold items at a gain, which means they paid less than for what they sold it, they will have to report that gain as income, and it's taxable.See IRS.gov&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.YVftzmUtfO9ofijaGc6dWLXhBsfLAiGnFgNxlU7dpbA/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for specific instruction on how to report personal item sales.What to do with a Form 1099-K received in errorPeople may get a Form 1099-K when they shouldn't have if it:<ul>
 <li>Reports personal payments from family or friends like gifts or reimbursements.</li><li>Doesn't belong to them.</li><li>Duplicates a Form 1099-K or other information reporting form they already received.</li>
 </ul>If this happens:<ul>
 <li>Contact the issuer immediately – see "Filer" on the top left corner of Form 1099-K to find out the name and contact information of the issuer.</li><li>Ask for a corrected Form 1099-K that shows a zero amount.</li><li>Keep a copy of the original form and all correspondence with the issuer for your records.</li><li>Don't wait to file taxes.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsjY29ycmVjdGVkIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.CAfQFlFBVDDF8WV26gkgFJUIlCTTry1CpIlwMtEbo1c/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">File even if a corrected Form 1099-K is unavailable</a>.</li>
 </ul>What to do with an incorrect Form 1099-KIf the payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or gross payment amount is incorrect taxpayers should request a corrected form from the issuer.<ul>
 <li>See "Filer" on the top left corner of Form 1099-K to find the name and contact information of the issuer. If a taxpayer doesn't recognize the issuer, they should contact the Payment Settlement Entity (PSE) identified on the bottom left corner of the form above their account number.</li><li>Keep a copy of the corrected Form 1099-K with other tax records, along with any correspondence from the issuer or PSE.</li><li>Don't contact the IRS. The IRS can't correct a Form 1099-K from an issuer.</li>
 </ul>Don't wait to file taxes. To file a tax return, take these steps:<ul>
 <li>If the Payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is incorrect report payments from the Form 1099-K and any sources of income on the appropriate tax return you normally file.</li><li>If the gross payment amount is incorrect report the amount from your incorrect Form 1099-K on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.8Rz-jbO5Po_ZLTYVi-mZOLeBZ42cFHd4pb5PnisuMeM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Schedule 1 (Form 1040), Additional Income and Adjustments to Income</a>.</li>
 </ul>More InformationSee&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.TrP-blq5a2Vt3kfVPW4mlDhFlKHHi1azDXJCRKvS5Z0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for more information on how to report an incorrect Form 1099-K.See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.nIYdvCcNQbeNS2PFoHvck5Sgle4JXyxH3QTDgj032n0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Understanding Your Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.m1EKHm7QpmPHvcyRTffZFGPbl73S1PcHmn5Y_vIFo60/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>&nbsp;for more information.

What taxpayers should do if they received a Form 1099-K in 2024

KANSAS CITY —On Feb. 27, the Missouri State Highway Patrol issued an Amber Alert&nbsp;in Kansas City for a missing 1-year-old Noah Johnson from Houston, Texas.

The boy was last seen with 38-year-old Kamilah Johnson&nbsp;at a Walmart on West 133rd Street in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 26, 2024, at 9:45p.m. They were traveling in a white 2007 GMC Yukon with a Texas license plate of STM7097.

The boy was wearing a navy shirt and pants with a flower pattern. Authorities say the child has a serious health issue.

The state of Texas filed paperwork to remove the boy from his mother Kamilah Johnson's custody, according to the MSHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709119186524.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —On Feb. 27, the Missouri State Highway Patrol issued an Amber Alert&nbsp;in Kansas City for a missing 1-year-old Noah Johnson from Houston, Texas.The boy was last seen with 38-year-old Kamilah Johnson&nbsp;at a Walmart on West 133rd Street in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 26, 2024, at 9:45p.m. They were traveling in a white 2007 GMC Yukon with a Texas license plate of STM7097.The boy was wearing a navy shirt and pants with a flower pattern. Authorities say the child has a serious health issue.The state of Texas filed paperwork to remove the boy from his mother Kamilah Johnson's custody, according to the MSHP.

Amber Alert: Suspect last seen in Kansas City is still at large

TOPEKA – In an effort to reduce traffic fatalities, the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero Coalition will host the first Drive To Zero Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Feb. 29, on the second floor of the Kansas Statehouse.

A news conference with state leaders will take place at 9:30 a.m. Crash data dashboard demonstrations, information booths from the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office and other activities will be available during the three-hour event.

“DTZ Day at the Capitol acknowledges a shared responsibility and commitment to reaching zero lives lost in traffic crashes,” said Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed, who is also Chair of the Drive To Zero Coalition. “Preliminary data shows 2023 was the first time since 2015 where Kansas has been under 400 traffic fatalities. While we are trending in the right direction, we still have work to do.”

At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how communities, law enforcement, businesses and first responders are working together on strategic initiatives to save lives on Kansas roads. Elected officials and transportation safety stakeholders will be on hand to talk with the public.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lmdvdi90cmFuc3BvcnRhdGlvbnNhZmV0eS5hc3A_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyNi45MDgxMzI5MSJ9.uAT9ylbzoa8EFivjwohXfj2HqgZN3LbpKuGbHk7Sv_A/s/1410649012/br/237729932289-l">https://www.ksdot.gov/transportationsafety.asp</a>&nbsp;to learn more about transportation safety initiatives under the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Strategic Highway Safety Plan.

TOPEKA – In an effort to reduce traffic fatalities, the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero Coalition will host the first Drive To Zero Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Feb. 29, on the second floor of the Kansas Statehouse.A news conference with state leaders will take place at 9:30 a.m. Crash data dashboard demonstrations, information booths from the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office and other activities will be available during the three-hour event.“DTZ Day at the Capitol acknowledges a shared responsibility and commitment to reaching zero lives lost in traffic crashes,” said Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed, who is also Chair of the Drive To Zero Coalition. “Preliminary data shows 2023 was the first time since 2015 where Kansas has been under 400 traffic fatalities. While we are trending in the right direction, we still have work to do.”At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how communities, law enforcement, businesses and first responders are working together on strategic initiatives to save lives on Kansas roads. Elected officials and transportation safety stakeholders will be on hand to talk with the public.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lmdvdi90cmFuc3BvcnRhdGlvbnNhZmV0eS5hc3A_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyNi45MDgxMzI5MSJ9.uAT9ylbzoa8EFivjwohXfj2HqgZN3LbpKuGbHk7Sv_A/s/1410649012/br/237729932289-l">https://www.ksdot.gov/transportationsafety.asp</a>&nbsp;to learn more about transportation safety initiatives under the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Strategic Highway Safety Plan.

Drive To Zero Day at Capitol set for today

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The moon’s newest arrival was said to be “alive and well” a day after making the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-private-company-intuitive-machines-9c896bfca61582773d381f4045fd35d7">first U.S. landing</a>&nbsp;in half a century, but flight controllers were still trying to get a better handle on its bearings.

Intuitive Machines reported Friday that it’s communicating with its lander, Odysseus, and sending commands to acquire science data. But it noted: “We continue to learn more about the vehicle’s specific information” regarding location, overall health and positioning.

(click below to watch a replay of the landing)

The Houston company was shooting for the south polar region, near the Malapert A crater, closer to the pole than anyone else so NASA could scout out the area before astronauts show up later this decade.

With Thursday’s touchdown, Intuitive Machines became the first private business to pull off a moon landing, a feat previously achieved by only five countries. The mission was sponsored in large part by NASA, whose experiments were on board. NASA paid $118 million for the delivery under a program meant to jump-start the lunar economy.

One of the NASA experiments was pressed into service when the lander's navigation system failed in the final few hours before touchdown. The lander took an extra lap around the moon to allow time for the last-minute switch to NASA's laser system.

“Odie is a scrapper,” mission director Tim Crain said late Thursday via X, formerly Twitter.

Another experiment didn't go so well. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's EagleCam — a set of six cameras — was supposed to eject 30 seconds before touchdown so it could capture pictures from afar of Odysseus' touchdown. EagleCam landed, instead, still attached to the lander.

The original plan had to be modified during the last orbit due to “unexpected events,” a university spokeswoman explained.

Intuitive Machines was the second company to aim for the moon under NASA's commercial lunar services program. Last month, Pittsburgh's Astrobotic Technology gave it a shot, but a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-spacecraft-reenter-burned-e7abeeac01711633eaa807b050704084">fuel leak on the lander</a>&nbsp;cut the mission short and the craft ended up crashing back to Earth.

Until Thursday, the U.S. had not landed on the moon since Apollo 17's Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt closed out NASA's famed moon-landing program in December 1972. NASA's new effort to return astronauts to the moon is named Artemis after Apollo's mythological twin sister. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nasa-moon-landings-artemis-delay-23e425d490c0c9e65ae774ec2e00f090">first Artemis crew landing</a>&nbsp;is planned for 2026 at the earliest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708707904055.png" alt="Image from a simulation video provided by Intuitive Machines&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Image from a simulation video provided by Intuitive Machines&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The moon’s newest arrival was said to be “alive and well” a day after making the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-private-company-intuitive-machines-9c896bfca61582773d381f4045fd35d7">first U.S. landing</a>&nbsp;in half a century, but flight controllers were still trying to get a better handle on its bearings.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lunar Surface Day One Update (23FEB2024 0818 CST) Odysseus is alive and well. Flight controllers are communicating and commanding the vehicle to download science data. The lander has good telemetry and solar charging. We continue to learn more about the vehicle’s specific…&mdash; Intuitive Machines (@Int_Machines) <a href="https://twitter.com/Int_Machines/status/1761032731729739804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Intuitive Machines reported Friday that it’s communicating with its lander, Odysseus, and sending commands to acquire science data. But it noted: “We continue to learn more about the vehicle’s specific information” regarding location, overall health and positioning.(click below to watch a replay of the landing)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dg2ffigGcYM?si=faNrnj88EqV5Ek9W" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Houston company was shooting for the south polar region, near the Malapert A crater, closer to the pole than anyone else so NASA could scout out the area before astronauts show up later this decade.With Thursday’s touchdown, Intuitive Machines became the first private business to pull off a moon landing, a feat previously achieved by only five countries. The mission was sponsored in large part by NASA, whose experiments were on board. NASA paid $118 million for the delivery under a program meant to jump-start the lunar economy.One of the NASA experiments was pressed into service when the lander's navigation system failed in the final few hours before touchdown. The lander took an extra lap around the moon to allow time for the last-minute switch to NASA's laser system.“Odie is a scrapper,” mission director Tim Crain said late Thursday via X, formerly Twitter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708646787215.png" alt="-Members of the Intuitive Machines team celebrate the success Thursday evening" />
 <figcaption>-Members of the Intuitive Machines team celebrate the success Thursday evening</figcaption>
 </figure>Another experiment didn't go so well. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's EagleCam — a set of six cameras — was supposed to eject 30 seconds before touchdown so it could capture pictures from afar of Odysseus' touchdown. EagleCam landed, instead, still attached to the lander.The original plan had to be modified during the last orbit due to “unexpected events,” a university spokeswoman explained.Intuitive Machines was the second company to aim for the moon under NASA's commercial lunar services program. Last month, Pittsburgh's Astrobotic Technology gave it a shot, but a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-spacecraft-reenter-burned-e7abeeac01711633eaa807b050704084">fuel leak on the lander</a>&nbsp;cut the mission short and the craft ended up crashing back to Earth.Until Thursday, the U.S. had not landed on the moon since Apollo 17's Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt closed out NASA's famed moon-landing program in December 1972. NASA's new effort to return astronauts to the moon is named Artemis after Apollo's mythological twin sister. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nasa-moon-landings-artemis-delay-23e425d490c0c9e65ae774ec2e00f090">first Artemis crew landing</a>&nbsp;is planned for 2026 at the earliest.

Lander 'alive and well' after first US moon landing in a half century

WASHINGTON — During the busiest time of the tax filing season, the Internal Revenue Service kicked off its 2024 Tax Time Guide series to help remind taxpayers of key items they’ll need to file a 2023 tax return.

As part of its four-part, weekly&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.b1LDYgGvuX8lcwmLX2xdqqlap7rkO9SCdeWZvTLpkiY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Tax Time Guide</a>&nbsp;series, the IRS continues to provide new and updated resources to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Taxpayers can count on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.KFzQKy1EgSo9H5i12cSSA006_ojDQ_aa6lrL7EhjYQk/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">IRS.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90YXgtbGF3LXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.vBeKcHCvWbKqmcvRjbH9EcEB9c1bEwgx2_868pnuQrA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">resources</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90b29scyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.p1ToYwuK4zLtpBdjkOmj19BBCZ3rox2JTNcSLLgK9cE/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">tools</a>&nbsp;along with a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0._FojOXVu9VaViwIi2pIS8TuXe-ydJFFnqMoMIXHSfIc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">special free help</a>&nbsp;page available around the clock. Taxpayers are also encouraged to read&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.UDO9JpNiTB8IBAcXD3wXkiUIiyz2yBw9BpEevNcnbTs/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>&nbsp;for additional guidance.

Essentials to filing an accurate tax returnThe deadline this tax season for filing&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.T4TWt2LRHEEtjUGvJt32n6w5q6MI3CUlQ90IviMFhmQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDAtc3IiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.79x6rK2O3e-w3qMUl0ZN9HE_S47gf5abI1osefTfovA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">1040-SR, U.S. Tax Return for Seniors</a>, is April 15, 2024. However, those who live in Maine or Massachusetts will have until April 17, 2024, to file due to official holidays observed in those states.

Taxpayers are advised to wait until they receive all their proper&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvc3RlcHMtdG8tdGFrZS1ub3ctdG8tZ2V0LWEtanVtcC1vbi1uZXh0LXllYXJzLXRheGVzI2NvbGxhcHNlQ29sbGFwc2libGUxNjc1OTQ2MTg0OTI5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.YUWAYpgf9J2QDlcKEgHDX6OyVpW9JtNKp2jYNht-4-g/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">tax documents</a>&nbsp;before filing their tax returns. Filing without all the necessary documents could lead to mistakes and potential delays.

It’s important for taxpayers to carefully review their documents for any inaccuracies or missing information. If any issues are found, taxpayers should&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4dG9waWNzL3RjMTU0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.WRWGkk_z4bMyXSnwwTwt_NIJTzjlcfvV9qVxX8iYAvY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">contact the payer</a>&nbsp;immediately to request a correction or confirm that the payer has their current mailing or email address on file.

Creating an IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMveW91ci1vbmxpbmUtYWNjb3VudCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.PetYUZcQxDRxVud0-96P9RvmaYfouaIyKVdt_G7KvdY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Online Account</a>&nbsp;can provide taxpayers with secure access to information about their federal tax account, including payment history, tax records and other important information.

Having organized tax records can make the process of preparing a complete and accurate tax return easier and may also help taxpayers identify any overlooked&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.5zioWr88MFYSYy6XBogFVjOgvmaJqEePCnVIisKz8fA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">deductions or credits</a>.

Taxpayers who have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvaW5kaXZpZHVhbC10YXhwYXllci1pZGVudGlmaWNhdGlvbi1udW1iZXIiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.eaCLwkgaL0HvvneU_Or0G47GVWp66dMVirzfpqE9NbY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">ITIN</a>&nbsp;may need to renew it if it has expired and is required for a U.S. federal tax return. If an expiring or expired ITIN is not renewed, the IRS can still accept the tax return, but it may result in processing delays or delays in credits owed.

Changes to credits and deductions for tax year 2023Standard deduction amount increased.&nbsp;For 2023, the standard deduction amount has been increased for all filers. The amounts are:

— Single or married filing separately — $13,850.

— Married filing jointly or qualifying surviving spouse — $27,700.

Additional child tax credit amount increased.&nbsp;The maximum additional child tax credit amount has increased to $1,600 for each qualifying child.

Child tax credit enhancements.&nbsp;Many changes to the Child tax credit (CTC) that had been implemented by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 have expired.

However, the IRS continues to closely monitor legislation being considered by Congress affecting the Child Tax Credit. The IRS reminds taxpayers eligible for the Child Tax Credit that they should not wait to file their 2023 tax return this filing season. If Congress changes the CTC guidelines, the IRS will automatically make adjustments for those who have already filed so no additional action will be needed by those eligible taxpayers.

Under current law, for tax year 2023, the following currently apply:

— The enhanced credit allowed for qualifying children under age 6 and children under age 18 has expired. For 2023, the initial amount of the CTC is $2,000 for each qualifying child. The credit amount begins to phase out where AGI income exceeds $200,000 ($400,000 in the case of a joint return). The amount of the CTC that can be claimed as a refundable credit is limited as it was in 2020 except that the maximum ACTC amount for each qualifying child increased to $1,500.

— The increased age allowance for a qualifying child has expired. A child must be under age 17 at the end of 2023 to be a qualifying child.

Changes to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).&nbsp;The enhancements for taxpayers without a qualifying child implemented by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 will not apply for tax year 2023. To claim the EITC without a qualifying child in 2023, taxpayers must be at least age 25 but under age 65 at the end of 2023. If a taxpayer is married filing a joint return, one spouse must be at least age 25 but under age 65 at the end of 2023.

Taxpayers may find more information on Child tax credits in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1zY2hlZHVsZS04ODEyLWZvcm0tMTA0MCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.8UWCwWxaxApQscWJMXNd-J3vumiYZ1thloEM_KZ9rEU/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Instructions for Schedule 8812 (Form 1040)</a>.

New Clean Vehicle Credit.&nbsp;The credit for new qualified plug-in electric drive motor vehicles has changed. This credit is now known as the Clean Vehicle Credit. The maximum amount of the credit and some of the requirements to claim the credit have changed. The credit is reported on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTg5MzYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.FbjqwLhmhQjaDI9MuhGmynDP_9iYfOsPnWZPSA_xnPY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 8936, Qualified Plug-In Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit</a>, and on Form 1040, Schedule 3.

More information on these and other credit and deduction changes for tax year 2023 may be found in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.tDUht4N4eVo7l9Xn_2nyyDJi-MyA0HzJ_g4Df6bF6KI/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>, taxpayer guide.

1099-K reporting requirements have not changed for tax year 2023Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS recently released&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.34fC7PrGRgb39H94ewkjvQSApkBWJVdIOC5BxmlFUqc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Notice 2023-74</a>&nbsp;announcing a delay of the new $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.fPKRVg3MyYSPki0D-wrhBCNjUTEAydrCIZfn1HaK9FM/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third-Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds will remain in place for 2023.

The IRS has published a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy0yMDIzLWZvcm0tMTA5OS1rLXJlcG9ydGluZy10aHJlc2hvbGQtZGVsYXktZm9yLXRoaXJkLXBhcnR5LXBsYXRmb3JtLXBheW1lbnRzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLTUwMDAtdGhyZXNob2xkLWluLTIwMjQtdG8tcGhhc2UtaW4taW1wbGVtZW50YXRpb24iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.M1AkMWhz6dvsa6wXbxUGt61UxdPozd3GiyFnzl-xsOQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Fact Sheet</a>&nbsp;with further information to assist taxpayers concerning changes to 1099-K reporting requirements for tax year 2023.

Form 1099-K reporting requirementsTaxpayers who take direct payment by credit, debit or gift cards for selling goods or providing services by customers or clients should get a Form 1099-K from their payment processor or payment settlement entity no matter how many payments they got or how much they were for.

If they used a payment app or online marketplace and received over $20,000 from over 200 transactions, the payment app or online marketplace is required to send a Form 1099-K. However, they can send a Form 1099-K with lower amounts. Whether or not the taxpayer receives a Form 1099-K, they must still report any income on their tax return.

What’s taxable?&nbsp;It’s the profit from these activities that’s taxable income. The Form 1099-K shows the gross or total amount of payments received. Taxpayers can use it and other records to figure out the actual taxes they owe on any profits. Remember that all income, no matter the amount, is taxable unless the tax law says it isn’t – even if taxpayers don’t get a Form 1099-K.

What’s not taxable?&nbsp;Taxpayers shouldn’t receive a Form 1099-K for personal payments, including money received as a gift and for repayment of shared expenses. That money isn’t taxable. To prevent getting an inaccurate Form 1099-K, note those payments as “personal,” if possible.

Good recordkeeping is key.&nbsp;Be sure to keep good records because it helps when it’s time to file a tax return. It’s a good idea to keep business and personal transactions separate to make it easier to figure out what a taxpayer owes.

For details on what to do if a taxpayer gets a Form 1099-K in error or the information on their form is incorrect, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.3uAPKV3BB40sZW1CYG8E8UzqTTHmDGTNjap9_fxlS8k/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">irs.gov/1099K</a>&nbsp;or find frequently asked questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.rwI1eV_0dw7lpSdnHdLe1Fz3s0WSgwcKP5YpTCaR3PY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>.

Direct File pilot program provides a new option this year for someThe IRS launched the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2RpcmVjdC1maWxlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.hoOBd1Wdgf8615iSfPgJ-gJNLUCn7tFaJeqWh3ipBzU/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Direct File pilot program</a>&nbsp;during the 2024 tax season. The pilot will give eligible taxpayers an option to prepare and electronically file their 2023 tax returns, for free, directly with the IRS.

The Direct File pilot program will be offered to eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states who have relatively simple tax returns reporting only certain types of income and claiming limited credits and deductions. The 12 states currently participating in the Direct File pilot program are Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington state and Wyoming. Taxpayers can check their eligibility at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.Av7upADxQtkw2-kiyC6_Avzl2UlJtrwt32R5z_kA4yc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">directfile.irs.gov</a>.

The Direct File pilot is currently in the internal testing phase and will be more widely available in mid-March. Taxpayers can get the latest news about the pilot at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2RpcmVjdC1maWxlLXBpbG90LW5ld3MiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.AIAUmujz-fbi580aFRwbvyqYux3FTyvETMBg_v8Hc1g/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Direct File pilot news</a>&nbsp;and sign up to be notified when Direct File is open to new users.

Finally, for comprehensive information on all these and other changes for tax year 2023, taxpayers and tax professionals are encouraged to read the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.byxcRjUwJdJo0SPp3WVFJDhDi3adhjJCpNp3Hhfx9Fw/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>, taxpayer guide, as well as visit other topics of taxpayer interest on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.v0n7hkxgGFDDdDCiLB4HeiYb358dwK42j5b1doV89GQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">IRS.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869881583.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Internal Revenue ServiceWASHINGTON — During the busiest time of the tax filing season, the Internal Revenue Service kicked off its 2024 Tax Time Guide series to help remind taxpayers of key items they’ll need to file a 2023 tax return.As part of its four-part, weekly&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.b1LDYgGvuX8lcwmLX2xdqqlap7rkO9SCdeWZvTLpkiY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Tax Time Guide</a>&nbsp;series, the IRS continues to provide new and updated resources to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Taxpayers can count on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.KFzQKy1EgSo9H5i12cSSA006_ojDQ_aa6lrL7EhjYQk/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">IRS.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90YXgtbGF3LXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.vBeKcHCvWbKqmcvRjbH9EcEB9c1bEwgx2_868pnuQrA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">resources</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90b29scyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.p1ToYwuK4zLtpBdjkOmj19BBCZ3rox2JTNcSLLgK9cE/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">tools</a>&nbsp;along with a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0._FojOXVu9VaViwIi2pIS8TuXe-ydJFFnqMoMIXHSfIc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">special free help</a>&nbsp;page available around the clock. Taxpayers are also encouraged to read&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.UDO9JpNiTB8IBAcXD3wXkiUIiyz2yBw9BpEevNcnbTs/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>&nbsp;for additional guidance.Essentials to filing an accurate tax returnThe deadline this tax season for filing&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.T4TWt2LRHEEtjUGvJt32n6w5q6MI3CUlQ90IviMFhmQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDAtc3IiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.79x6rK2O3e-w3qMUl0ZN9HE_S47gf5abI1osefTfovA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">1040-SR, U.S. Tax Return for Seniors</a>, is April 15, 2024. However, those who live in Maine or Massachusetts will have until April 17, 2024, to file due to official holidays observed in those states.Taxpayers are advised to wait until they receive all their proper&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvc3RlcHMtdG8tdGFrZS1ub3ctdG8tZ2V0LWEtanVtcC1vbi1uZXh0LXllYXJzLXRheGVzI2NvbGxhcHNlQ29sbGFwc2libGUxNjc1OTQ2MTg0OTI5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.YUWAYpgf9J2QDlcKEgHDX6OyVpW9JtNKp2jYNht-4-g/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">tax documents</a>&nbsp;before filing their tax returns. Filing without all the necessary documents could lead to mistakes and potential delays.It’s important for taxpayers to carefully review their documents for any inaccuracies or missing information. If any issues are found, taxpayers should&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4dG9waWNzL3RjMTU0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.WRWGkk_z4bMyXSnwwTwt_NIJTzjlcfvV9qVxX8iYAvY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">contact the payer</a>&nbsp;immediately to request a correction or confirm that the payer has their current mailing or email address on file.Creating an IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMveW91ci1vbmxpbmUtYWNjb3VudCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.PetYUZcQxDRxVud0-96P9RvmaYfouaIyKVdt_G7KvdY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Online Account</a>&nbsp;can provide taxpayers with secure access to information about their federal tax account, including payment history, tax records and other important information.Having organized tax records can make the process of preparing a complete and accurate tax return easier and may also help taxpayers identify any overlooked&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.5zioWr88MFYSYy6XBogFVjOgvmaJqEePCnVIisKz8fA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">deductions or credits</a>.Taxpayers who have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvaW5kaXZpZHVhbC10YXhwYXllci1pZGVudGlmaWNhdGlvbi1udW1iZXIiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.eaCLwkgaL0HvvneU_Or0G47GVWp66dMVirzfpqE9NbY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">ITIN</a>&nbsp;may need to renew it if it has expired and is required for a U.S. federal tax return. If an expiring or expired ITIN is not renewed, the IRS can still accept the tax return, but it may result in processing delays or delays in credits owed.Changes to credits and deductions for tax year 2023Standard deduction amount increased.&nbsp;For 2023, the standard deduction amount has been increased for all filers. The amounts are:— Single or married filing separately — $13,850.— Head of household — $20,800.— Married filing jointly or qualifying surviving spouse — $27,700.Additional child tax credit amount increased.&nbsp;The maximum additional child tax credit amount has increased to $1,600 for each qualifying child.Child tax credit enhancements.&nbsp;Many changes to the Child tax credit (CTC) that had been implemented by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 have expired.However, the IRS continues to closely monitor legislation being considered by Congress affecting the Child Tax Credit. The IRS reminds taxpayers eligible for the Child Tax Credit that they should not wait to file their 2023 tax return this filing season. If Congress changes the CTC guidelines, the IRS will automatically make adjustments for those who have already filed so no additional action will be needed by those eligible taxpayers.Under current law, for tax year 2023, the following currently apply:— The enhanced credit allowed for qualifying children under age 6 and children under age 18 has expired. For 2023, the initial amount of the CTC is $2,000 for each qualifying child. The credit amount begins to phase out where AGI income exceeds $200,000 ($400,000 in the case of a joint return). The amount of the CTC that can be claimed as a refundable credit is limited as it was in 2020 except that the maximum ACTC amount for each qualifying child increased to $1,500.— The increased age allowance for a qualifying child has expired. A child must be under age 17 at the end of 2023 to be a qualifying child.Changes to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).&nbsp;The enhancements for taxpayers without a qualifying child implemented by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 will not apply for tax year 2023. To claim the EITC without a qualifying child in 2023, taxpayers must be at least age 25 but under age 65 at the end of 2023. If a taxpayer is married filing a joint return, one spouse must be at least age 25 but under age 65 at the end of 2023.Taxpayers may find more information on Child tax credits in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1zY2hlZHVsZS04ODEyLWZvcm0tMTA0MCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.8UWCwWxaxApQscWJMXNd-J3vumiYZ1thloEM_KZ9rEU/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Instructions for Schedule 8812 (Form 1040)</a>.New Clean Vehicle Credit.&nbsp;The credit for new qualified plug-in electric drive motor vehicles has changed. This credit is now known as the Clean Vehicle Credit. The maximum amount of the credit and some of the requirements to claim the credit have changed. The credit is reported on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTg5MzYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.FbjqwLhmhQjaDI9MuhGmynDP_9iYfOsPnWZPSA_xnPY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 8936, Qualified Plug-In Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit</a>, and on Form 1040, Schedule 3.More information on these and other credit and deduction changes for tax year 2023 may be found in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.tDUht4N4eVo7l9Xn_2nyyDJi-MyA0HzJ_g4Df6bF6KI/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>, taxpayer guide.1099-K reporting requirements have not changed for tax year 2023Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS recently released&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.34fC7PrGRgb39H94ewkjvQSApkBWJVdIOC5BxmlFUqc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Notice 2023-74</a>&nbsp;announcing a delay of the new $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.fPKRVg3MyYSPki0D-wrhBCNjUTEAydrCIZfn1HaK9FM/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third-Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds will remain in place for 2023.The IRS has published a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy0yMDIzLWZvcm0tMTA5OS1rLXJlcG9ydGluZy10aHJlc2hvbGQtZGVsYXktZm9yLXRoaXJkLXBhcnR5LXBsYXRmb3JtLXBheW1lbnRzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLTUwMDAtdGhyZXNob2xkLWluLTIwMjQtdG8tcGhhc2UtaW4taW1wbGVtZW50YXRpb24iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.M1AkMWhz6dvsa6wXbxUGt61UxdPozd3GiyFnzl-xsOQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Fact Sheet</a>&nbsp;with further information to assist taxpayers concerning changes to 1099-K reporting requirements for tax year 2023.Form 1099-K reporting requirementsTaxpayers who take direct payment by credit, debit or gift cards for selling goods or providing services by customers or clients should get a Form 1099-K from their payment processor or payment settlement entity no matter how many payments they got or how much they were for.If they used a payment app or online marketplace and received over $20,000 from over 200 transactions, the payment app or online marketplace is required to send a Form 1099-K. However, they can send a Form 1099-K with lower amounts. Whether or not the taxpayer receives a Form 1099-K, they must still report any income on their tax return.What’s taxable?&nbsp;It’s the profit from these activities that’s taxable income. The Form 1099-K shows the gross or total amount of payments received. Taxpayers can use it and other records to figure out the actual taxes they owe on any profits. Remember that all income, no matter the amount, is taxable unless the tax law says it isn’t – even if taxpayers don’t get a Form 1099-K.What’s not taxable?&nbsp;Taxpayers shouldn’t receive a Form 1099-K for personal payments, including money received as a gift and for repayment of shared expenses. That money isn’t taxable. To prevent getting an inaccurate Form 1099-K, note those payments as “personal,” if possible.Good recordkeeping is key.&nbsp;Be sure to keep good records because it helps when it’s time to file a tax return. It’s a good idea to keep business and personal transactions separate to make it easier to figure out what a taxpayer owes.For details on what to do if a taxpayer gets a Form 1099-K in error or the information on their form is incorrect, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.3uAPKV3BB40sZW1CYG8E8UzqTTHmDGTNjap9_fxlS8k/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">irs.gov/1099K</a>&nbsp;or find frequently asked questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.rwI1eV_0dw7lpSdnHdLe1Fz3s0WSgwcKP5YpTCaR3PY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>.Direct File pilot program provides a new option this year for someThe IRS launched the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2RpcmVjdC1maWxlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.hoOBd1Wdgf8615iSfPgJ-gJNLUCn7tFaJeqWh3ipBzU/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Direct File pilot program</a>&nbsp;during the 2024 tax season. The pilot will give eligible taxpayers an option to prepare and electronically file their 2023 tax returns, for free, directly with the IRS.The Direct File pilot program will be offered to eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states who have relatively simple tax returns reporting only certain types of income and claiming limited credits and deductions. The 12 states currently participating in the Direct File pilot program are Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington state and Wyoming. Taxpayers can check their eligibility at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.Av7upADxQtkw2-kiyC6_Avzl2UlJtrwt32R5z_kA4yc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">directfile.irs.gov</a>.The Direct File pilot is currently in the internal testing phase and will be more widely available in mid-March. Taxpayers can get the latest news about the pilot at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2RpcmVjdC1maWxlLXBpbG90LW5ld3MiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.AIAUmujz-fbi580aFRwbvyqYux3FTyvETMBg_v8Hc1g/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Direct File pilot news</a>&nbsp;and sign up to be notified when Direct File is open to new users.Finally, for comprehensive information on all these and other changes for tax year 2023, taxpayers and tax professionals are encouraged to read the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.byxcRjUwJdJo0SPp3WVFJDhDi3adhjJCpNp3Hhfx9Fw/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>, taxpayer guide, as well as visit other topics of taxpayer interest on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.v0n7hkxgGFDDdDCiLB4HeiYb358dwK42j5b1doV89GQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">IRS.gov</a>.

Tax Time Guide 2024: What to know before completing a tax return

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY — The Riley County Police Department reported just before 10a.m. Wednesday, that missing Anabelle Deacon has been located.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue an endangered persons advisory for a missing Manhattan girl, according to a media release from the KBI.

The whereabouts of 12-year-old Anabelle C. Deacon are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.

Anabelle lives in Manhattan, Kansas, and in rural Pottawatomie County. She was last seen walking east on Heather Lane in Manhattan on Wednesday morning around 6:50 a.m. She was last known wearing a St. Francis Xavier’s catholic school uniform, which is tan khaki pants, and a blue polo shirt. She may also be wearing a black hoodie.

Anabelle is described as a white female, approximately 5 foot 5 inches tall, and weighing around 110 pounds. She has brown curly hair, brown eyes, and wears glasses.

If you see Anabelle, call 911 immediately. If you have any other information about this case, please call the&nbsp;Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office at&nbsp;(785) 457-3353.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707925699200.png" alt="Anabelle C. Deacon courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Anabelle C. Deacon courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY — The Riley County Police Department reported just before 10a.m. Wednesday, that missing Anabelle Deacon has been located.---------POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue an endangered persons advisory for a missing Manhattan girl, according to a media release from the KBI.The whereabouts of 12-year-old Anabelle C. Deacon are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707925762367.png" alt="Anabelle C. Deacon courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Anabelle C. Deacon courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Anabelle lives in Manhattan, Kansas, and in rural Pottawatomie County. She was last seen walking east on Heather Lane in Manhattan on Wednesday morning around 6:50 a.m. She was last known wearing a St. Francis Xavier’s catholic school uniform, which is tan khaki pants, and a blue polo shirt. She may also be wearing a black hoodie.Anabelle is described as a white female, approximately 5 foot 5 inches tall, and weighing around 110 pounds. She has brown curly hair, brown eyes, and wears glasses.If you see Anabelle, call 911 immediately. If you have any other information about this case, please call the&nbsp;Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office at&nbsp;(785) 457-3353.

Police: Missing Manhattan girl found safe

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Several elected leaders in Oregon declared a state of emergency last week for downtown Portland over the public health and public safety crisis fueled by fentanyl.

This comes as&nbsp;Democratic lawmakers in Oregon last month unveiled a sweeping new bill that would undo a key part of the state’s first-in-the-nation drug decriminalization law, a recognition that public opinion has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drugs-decriminalization-pushback-bb209e6ba9835c69f95b093c8ee00279">soured on the measure</a>&nbsp;amid rampant public drug use during the fentanyl crisis.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler and Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson made the emergency declaration for a 90-day period during which collaboration and response will come from a command center downtown. The three governments are directing their agencies to work with first responders in connecting people addicted to the synthetic opioid with resources including drug treatment programs and to crack down on drug sales.

“Our country and our state have never seen a drug this deadly addictive, and all are grappling with how to respond,” Kotek said in a statement.

The declaration is a recommendation from a governor-established task force that met for several months last year to determine ways to rejuvenate downtown Portland.

People addicted to fentanyl who interact with first responders in Portland’s downtown in the next 90 days will be triaged by this new command center. Staff can connect people with various resources from a bed in a drug treatment center to meeting with a behavioral health clinician to help with registering for food stamps.

“We cannot underestimate the tremendous value of bringing leaders from different disciplines in a room on a daily basis who all account for a different part of the solution,” Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said in a statement.

Mike Myers, the director of Portland’s Community Safety Division, will head the city’s command team. Nathan Reynolds, deputy policy chief at the state’s Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, will be the state’s incident commander.

The effort also extends the Portland Police Bureau’s partnership with Oregon State Police to jointly patrol downtown streets for fentanyl sales. It additionally kicks off information campaigns centered on drug use prevention and recovery programs across the region. The county will expand outreach and training on how to administer Narcan, an overdose-reversal drug.

The program doesn’t establish any goals to measure success. Kotek said the next 90 days will provide a road map for the next steps.

The synthetic opioid addiction and overdose crisis that has gripped the U.S. for over two decades has left governments at the federal, state and local levels&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fentanyl-opioids-oregon-washington-legislature-2db8e01e0cdc26fb72f119fe99cdb73a" target="_blank">scrambling for solutions</a>.

At the state level, Oregon lawmakers have introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drug-decriminalization-law-3f851183d45e9c29609360b09e996d04" target="_blank">new bill</a>&nbsp;that would undo a key part of the state’s drug decriminalization law.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drugs-decriminalization-pushback-bb209e6ba9835c69f95b093c8ee00279" target="_blank">Public opinion has soured</a>&nbsp;on it as public drug use has become more visible because of growing homelessness.

And President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping announced last fall that China was telling its chemical companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-xi-fentanyl-agreement-mexico-china-opioids-1fa57facd0dbdac714b616d705952d92" target="_blank">restrict shipments to Latin America and elsewhere of the materials used to produce fentanyl</a>, which is largely finished in Mexico and then smuggled into the U.S.

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Several elected leaders in Oregon declared a state of emergency last week for downtown Portland over the public health and public safety crisis fueled by fentanyl.This comes as&nbsp;Democratic lawmakers in Oregon last month unveiled a sweeping new bill that would undo a key part of the state’s first-in-the-nation drug decriminalization law, a recognition that public opinion has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drugs-decriminalization-pushback-bb209e6ba9835c69f95b093c8ee00279">soured on the measure</a>&nbsp;amid rampant public drug use during the fentanyl crisis.Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler and Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson made the emergency declaration for a 90-day period during which collaboration and response will come from a command center downtown. The three governments are directing their agencies to work with first responders in connecting people addicted to the synthetic opioid with resources including drug treatment programs and to crack down on drug sales.“Our country and our state have never seen a drug this deadly addictive, and all are grappling with how to respond,” Kotek said in a statement.The declaration is a recommendation from a governor-established task force that met for several months last year to determine ways to rejuvenate downtown Portland.People addicted to fentanyl who interact with first responders in Portland’s downtown in the next 90 days will be triaged by this new command center. Staff can connect people with various resources from a bed in a drug treatment center to meeting with a behavioral health clinician to help with registering for food stamps.“We cannot underestimate the tremendous value of bringing leaders from different disciplines in a room on a daily basis who all account for a different part of the solution,” Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said in a statement.Mike Myers, the director of Portland’s Community Safety Division, will head the city’s command team. Nathan Reynolds, deputy policy chief at the state’s Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, will be the state’s incident commander.The effort also extends the Portland Police Bureau’s partnership with Oregon State Police to jointly patrol downtown streets for fentanyl sales. It additionally kicks off information campaigns centered on drug use prevention and recovery programs across the region. The county will expand outreach and training on how to administer Narcan, an overdose-reversal drug.The program doesn’t establish any goals to measure success. Kotek said the next 90 days will provide a road map for the next steps.The synthetic opioid addiction and overdose crisis that has gripped the U.S. for over two decades has left governments at the federal, state and local levels&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fentanyl-opioids-oregon-washington-legislature-2db8e01e0cdc26fb72f119fe99cdb73a" target="_blank">scrambling for solutions</a>.At the state level, Oregon lawmakers have introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drug-decriminalization-law-3f851183d45e9c29609360b09e996d04" target="_blank">new bill</a>&nbsp;that would undo a key part of the state’s drug decriminalization law.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drugs-decriminalization-pushback-bb209e6ba9835c69f95b093c8ee00279" target="_blank">Public opinion has soured</a>&nbsp;on it as public drug use has become more visible because of growing homelessness.And President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping announced last fall that China was telling its chemical companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-xi-fentanyl-agreement-mexico-china-opioids-1fa57facd0dbdac714b616d705952d92" target="_blank">restrict shipments to Latin America and elsewhere of the materials used to produce fentanyl</a>, which is largely finished in Mexico and then smuggled into the U.S.

State’s first-in-the-nation drug decriminalization law in jeopardy

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with the Kansas Radon Program, encourages Kansans to take action this January by learning about radon and how its risks can be lowered. &nbsp;

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking. 1 in 4 homes in Kansas test high for radon. It is a radioactive gas from the breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in the soil. Radon can’t be seen, heard or smelled, so the only way to know if a home has high levels of radon is to test. &nbsp;

The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure increases dramatically in people who smoke. People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke and are exposed to radon have a ten times greater risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure compared with people who do not smoke and are exposed to the same radon levels.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvNjQ3OC8yMDIxLUJ1cmRlbi1vZi1DYW5jZXItaW4tS2Fuc2FzLVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.A2zINenb5bua30BxLxENwXlkn0lyjh2KUxfbrsR1CzM/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">Cancer Burden Report of 2021</a>&nbsp;states, on average, each year, more than 1,900 lung cancers are diagnosed among Kansas residents, and more than 70% of them (about 1,350 cases) are diagnosed in late stage. In addition, about 1,500 Kansans die from the disease annually.

There are several ways to lower the risk of lung cancer. The best thing to prevent lung cancer is never to start smoking or to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. No matter how long an individual has used tobacco, quitting can reduce their risk for cancer and other chronic diseases. Homes can also be tested for high radon levels and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNkYy5nb3YvcmFkb24vcmFkb24tYWN0aW9uLmh0bWw_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDEyNC44OTA2MDE2MSJ9.H-UOq3_ILvdaw8zSIALBNGiK71IVa_pe0bQws4_ROsQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">fixed</a>&nbsp;if the radon levels are too high.

Learn more about what Kansas is doing to reduce the risk of cancer among Kansans by reading the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvMzAwNDkvS2Fuc2FzLUNhbmNlci1QcmV2ZW50aW9uLWFuZC1Db250cm9sLVBsYW4tMjAyMi0yMDI3LVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.9Ctfrqg1c2nUxhejwa-dUE9I7r7IFARTJ0-yYE2yHXA/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">2022-2027 Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan</a>.

Get a low-cost, short-term radon test kit at your local&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzcmUuay1zdGF0ZS5lZHUvYWJvdXQvZG9jcy9Db3VudHlEaXN0Q29udGFjdC5wZGYuJUMyJUEwJUMyJUEwP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAxMjQuODkwNjAxNjEifQ.wJsD8r-k8hRgJbIcwWR_PqewjnWo0ucsG7Njy-4SRkw/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">K-State Extension office</a>.

Learn more about the relationship between tobacco and radon&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2Fuc2FzcmFkb25wcm9ncmFtLm9yZy9zaXRlcy9rYW5zYXNyYWRvbnByb2dyYW0vZmlsZXMvVG9iYWNjb1JhZG9uJTIwR0VORVJJQyUyMGJyb2NodXJlLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.NU64K0qHg4rO2EfphJJoTeO6CPaWwkf12iFAyOp5OmQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">here.</a>

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with the Kansas Radon Program, encourages Kansans to take action this January by learning about radon and how its risks can be lowered. &nbsp;Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking. 1 in 4 homes in Kansas test high for radon. It is a radioactive gas from the breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in the soil. Radon can’t be seen, heard or smelled, so the only way to know if a home has high levels of radon is to test. &nbsp;The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure increases dramatically in people who smoke. People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke and are exposed to radon have a ten times greater risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure compared with people who do not smoke and are exposed to the same radon levels.The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvNjQ3OC8yMDIxLUJ1cmRlbi1vZi1DYW5jZXItaW4tS2Fuc2FzLVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.A2zINenb5bua30BxLxENwXlkn0lyjh2KUxfbrsR1CzM/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">Cancer Burden Report of 2021</a>&nbsp;states, on average, each year, more than 1,900 lung cancers are diagnosed among Kansas residents, and more than 70% of them (about 1,350 cases) are diagnosed in late stage. In addition, about 1,500 Kansans die from the disease annually.There are several ways to lower the risk of lung cancer. The best thing to prevent lung cancer is never to start smoking or to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. No matter how long an individual has used tobacco, quitting can reduce their risk for cancer and other chronic diseases. Homes can also be tested for high radon levels and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNkYy5nb3YvcmFkb24vcmFkb24tYWN0aW9uLmh0bWw_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDEyNC44OTA2MDE2MSJ9.H-UOq3_ILvdaw8zSIALBNGiK71IVa_pe0bQws4_ROsQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">fixed</a>&nbsp;if the radon levels are too high.Learn more about what Kansas is doing to reduce the risk of cancer among Kansans by reading the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvMzAwNDkvS2Fuc2FzLUNhbmNlci1QcmV2ZW50aW9uLWFuZC1Db250cm9sLVBsYW4tMjAyMi0yMDI3LVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.9Ctfrqg1c2nUxhejwa-dUE9I7r7IFARTJ0-yYE2yHXA/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">2022-2027 Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan</a>.Get a low-cost, short-term radon test kit at your local&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzcmUuay1zdGF0ZS5lZHUvYWJvdXQvZG9jcy9Db3VudHlEaXN0Q29udGFjdC5wZGYuJUMyJUEwJUMyJUEwP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAxMjQuODkwNjAxNjEifQ.wJsD8r-k8hRgJbIcwWR_PqewjnWo0ucsG7Njy-4SRkw/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">K-State Extension office</a>.Learn more about the relationship between tobacco and radon&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2Fuc2FzcmFkb25wcm9ncmFtLm9yZy9zaXRlcy9rYW5zYXNyYWRvbnByb2dyYW0vZmlsZXMvVG9iYWNjb1JhZG9uJTIwR0VORVJJQyUyMGJyb2NodXJlLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.NU64K0qHg4rO2EfphJJoTeO6CPaWwkf12iFAyOp5OmQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">here.</a>

Get Ready for Kansas Radon Action Month in January 

A budget is a plan for how to spend and save your money. A monthly household budget can help you make sure you have enough money to pay for things you need like rent, groceries, and electricity. They can also help you think about how you spend your money on things you want like cable television or having a pet. Paying for all your household needs before you spend money on things you want is a wise financial habit. Knowing how to make a budget is an important first step toward managing your money.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>A budget is a plan for how to spend and save your money. A monthly household budget can help you make sure you have enough money to pay for things you need like rent, groceries, and electricity. They can also help you think about how you spend your money on things you want like cable television or having a pet. Paying for all your household needs before you spend money on things you want is a wise financial habit. Knowing how to make a budget is an important first step toward managing your money.Understanding the difference between wants and needs is a way to build a budget and make sure basic needs are taken care of such as food, clothing, and shelter before things that are upgrades or nice to have. Learning to save money is also a necessity because having an emergency fund helps to avoid a major crisis. It also allows you to save for specific purchases without having to use credit therefore, saving you money in interest. An emergency fund is usually around $500-$1,000 as a minimum. That is typically enough money to be able to cover an emergency. This can create peace of mind for the individual and also help relationships since there is no need to argue because you have the money to cover an emergency. While there is some stress related to emergencies there is less stress when there is money to cover it.The first step I like to do when creating a budget is to track expenses for a month so you know where your money is going. If you don’t know where your money is going then it is difficult to sit down and put a number in each category. Some categories like rent stay the same but other categories, for example, groceries, can be surprising when we pay attention to what we are spending.Sometimes we can also be taken off guard by how much we really spend on seemingly little things. We can make better choices when we know exactly how much we are spending on something. For example, stopping to get snacks or drinks at a convenience store, can add up quickly. A fountain drink can be around $2.00. If we stop five times a week that adds up to $10.00 a week. If we don’t know what we are spending then we can’t make an educated choice on how to spend our money. Some people might be willing to spend $10.00 a week on drinks and others may not be willing to spend that much. The choice is yours.Having a budget is telling your money what to do. To some people budgeting feels restrictive but knowing where your money is going can also create a sense of freedom. You also need to know how much money is coming in. What are all your income sources? The more informed you are the better decisions you can make around anything and this includes personal finance.Once you create a budget you can use an online system or the envelope system to keep track of your budget. There are a lot of online budgeting tools so you can electronically keep track of your spending. Or you can utilize an envelope system where you put cash in each envelope and each envelope represents a category. Examples of categories include rent, groceries, gas, utilities, savings, etc.The goal is to tell each dollar where to go. If you have money left over after all the basics and bills then you can decide how to use those. Even if they go to savings or a miscellaneous category, tell each dollar where it will be spent. Likewise, if you run out of money before everything is paid, then you will need to find ways you can cut back or increase your income.It takes some time to get used to doing a budget. You aren’t going to be perfect the first month if you’ve never done a budget before. It will take some time and trial and error to get your budget to work well for you. Keep practicing until you figure it out. Be patient and don’t give up!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

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