Interest Rates Remain The Same
The IRS has made the decision to keep the same interest rate for the fourth quarter of 2020. Each quarter, the IRS sets the interest rates charged or paid on over- and underpayment. For taxpayers (other than corporations), the overpayment and underpayment rate is the federal short-term rate plus 3 percentage points. Other rates are as follows:
- 3% for overpayments (2% in the case of a corporation)
- 5% for the portion of a corporate overpayment exceeding $10,000
- 3% percent for underpayments
- 5% percent for large corporate underpayments
Final BEAT Regulations Issued
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) added a new tax on large U.S. corporations that make deductible payments to related foreign parties, called the base erosion and anti-abuse tax (BEAT). The IRS has issued final regulations providing detailed guidance regarding how to compute certain BEAT calculations. They also contain rules permitting taxpayers to waive deductions for purposes of the BEAT, and additional guidance regarding partnerships and anti-abuse rules.
Temporary Digital Signatures Allowed
The IRS has released a list of tax forms on which they are allowing digital signatures. This is a temporary measure, in place until December 31, 2020, intended to help protect the health of taxpayers and tax professionals. These forms have to be printed and mailed, but the digital signatures will enable the forms to be filled and filed without contact between taxpayer and tax preparer, and in a timely manner. The IRS will continue to monitor this temporary option and determine if further measures are necessary.
Third Quarter Tax Payments Due September 15
The IRS reminds taxpayers that third quarter tax payments are due September 15. This applies to anyone not subject to payroll tax withholding like self-employed or gig workers, investors, recipients of alimony, retirees, and others. Taxes are “pay as you go,” and there are penalties for late payment or underpayment of taxes. Due dates for disaster victims have been delayed.