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AI and taxes are becoming more connected as people use technology to simplify the filing process. This video shares practical tips on how to use AI effectively while avoiding common mistakes.


How AI Can Help with Taxes

AI tools can make tax preparation easier by:

  • Explaining complex tax concepts
  • Organizing financial information
  • Providing quick answers to common questions

This can save time and reduce stress during tax season.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

While helpful, AI is not perfect. Some common risks include:

  • Misinterpreting tax rules
  • Missing important details
  • Providing outdated or incomplete information

Relying too much on AI without verification can lead to costly errors.


Why Accuracy Still Matters

Even when using AI, you are still responsible for your tax return. Any incorrect information can result in:

  • Delays in processing
  • Reduced refunds
  • Possible penalties

Best Way to Use AI for Taxes

To stay safe:

  • Use AI as a support tool, not a replacement
  • Double-check all information
  • Keep accurate records
  • Consult a tax professional if needed

Final Thoughts

AI and taxes can work together to simplify the process, but only when used carefully. Understanding both the benefits and risks can help you file more confidently and avoid unnecessary mistakes.

Source:
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAhN8PxCDms

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AI and taxes are becoming more closely connected as the IRS adopts new technology to improve tax enforcement. Reports show that the agency is now using AI-powered chatbots to identify potentially risky tax returns. (nationaltoday.com)


How the IRS Is Using AI

The IRS is leveraging AI tools to analyze large volumes of tax data quickly. These systems can detect patterns, inconsistencies, and unusual claims that may indicate errors or fraud.

This allows the agency to:

  • Flag high-risk returns
  • Prioritize audits more efficiently
  • Improve overall compliance

Why This Matters for Taxpayers

As more people use AI tools to help prepare their taxes, the IRS is also upgrading its systems to keep up.

This means:

  • Mistakes may be detected more easily
  • Audits could become more targeted
  • Filing accuracy is more important than ever

Risks of Relying on AI for Filing

While AI can simplify tax preparation, it can also create risks if used incorrectly:

  • Misinterpretation of tax laws
  • Incorrect deductions or claims
  • Overconfidence in automated results

Experts warn that taxpayers remain responsible for any errors, even if AI tools were used.


What You Should Do

To stay safe:

  • Double-check all tax information
  • Keep accurate financial records
  • Avoid relying solely on AI for filing
  • Consult a tax professional when needed

Final Thoughts

AI and taxes are shaping the future of tax filing and enforcement. As the IRS adopts advanced technology, taxpayers must also adapt by ensuring accuracy and understanding the risks involved.

Using AI wisely, while staying cautious, can help you avoid costly mistakes and potential audits.

Source:
National Today – IRS Using Chatbots to Flag Risky Tax Returns
https://nationaltoday.com/us/ut/salt-lake-city/news/2026/04/10/irs-using-chatbots-to-flag-risky-tax-returns-as-more-filers-turn-to-ai/

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Sports gambling risks are often underestimated, especially with the rise of online betting. In this video, Jenny Groberg explains why most bettors should not expect to win in the long run.


Why the Odds Are Not in Your Favor

According to Jenny Groberg, betting systems are designed to favor the house. While occasional wins happen, consistent profit is extremely unlikely for most people.


The Illusion of Winning

Small wins can create confidence and encourage repeated betting. However, this often leads to larger losses over time.

Sports gambling risks increase when people treat betting as a reliable income source instead of entertainment.


Behavioral and Financial Impact

Jenny Groberg highlights how gambling can:

  • Disrupt financial planning
  • Encourage impulsive spending
  • Create emotional highs and lows

Final Thoughts

Understanding sports gambling risks is essential before placing bets. As Jenny Groberg emphasizes, long-term success in gambling is rare, and caution is key.

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IRS Text Scam Warning: How Tax Scammers Trick Victims

IRS text scam messages are becoming more common during tax season. Experts warn that scammers take advantage of this time of year to target taxpayers expecting refunds or communication from tax authorities.


How the IRS Text Scam Works

Scammers send messages pretending to be from the IRS, often claiming:

  • There is an issue with your tax return
  • Your refund is delayed
  • Immediate action is required

These messages usually include links that lead to fake websites designed to steal personal information.


Why These Scams Are Effective

Tax season creates urgency, making people more likely to respond quickly without verifying the source. Since many are expecting updates about their taxes, these messages can appear legitimate.


Warning Signs of an IRS Scam

Be cautious if you receive:

  • Unsolicited text messages from the IRS
  • Requests for personal or financial information
  • Messages demanding immediate action

Experts emphasize that the IRS typically does not initiate contact through text messages.


How to Protect Yourself

To stay safe:

  • Do not click on links in suspicious messages
  • Verify all communication through official IRS channels
  • Never share sensitive information via text
  • Report suspicious messages immediately

Final Thoughts

IRS text scam cases highlight the importance of staying alert during tax season. Understanding how these scams work can help you protect your identity, finances, and tax refund from fraud.

Source:
YouTube – IRS Text Scam Warning During Tax Season
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUEvW4CZY8M

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Tax Scams 2026: How Fake Messages and Identity Theft Work

Tax scams 2026 are becoming more common as criminals take advantage of refund season. Experts warn that scammers are using fake messages and stolen identities to trick taxpayers into giving away sensitive information or losing their refunds.


Why Tax Season Attracts Scammers

Tax season creates urgency, making people more likely to respond quickly to messages about refunds or tax issues. Scammers exploit this by sending emails, texts, or calls that appear to come from tax authorities.

These messages often claim:

  • There’s a problem with your tax return
  • Your refund is delayed
  • Immediate action is required

How the Scam Works

Criminals impersonate official agencies like the IRS and use convincing language to gain trust. These scams may:

  • Ask for personal information
  • Include links to fake websites
  • Demand urgent payments

Many victims are tricked into sharing sensitive data such as Social Security numbers or bank details.


The Danger of Identity Theft

One of the biggest risks is identity theft. Scammers can use stolen personal information to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds before the real taxpayer files.

This can lead to:

  • Delayed refunds
  • Financial loss
  • Long recovery processes

Warning Signs to Watch For

Experts say these are major red flags:

  • Messages demanding immediate payment
  • Requests for payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency
  • Unexpected emails or texts about your taxes

The IRS typically contacts taxpayers through official mail first—not urgent digital messages.


How to Protect Yourself

To stay safe during tax season:

  • File your taxes early
  • Avoid clicking links in unexpected messages
  • Use strong passwords for tax accounts
  • Verify information through official government websites

If something seems suspicious, contact the IRS directly and report the incident.


Final Thoughts

Tax scams 2026 highlight the importance of staying alert during filing season. By understanding how these scams work and recognizing warning signs, you can protect your identity and your refund from fraud.

Source:
KUTV – Tax Scammers Target Refund Season with Fake Messages, Stolen Identities
https://kutv.com/news/arc-salt-lake/tax-scammers-target-refund-season-with-fake-messages-stolen-identities

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2025 Tax Return Changes: What You Need to Know Before Filing

As tax season approaches, new updates for the 2025 tax year could affect how much you owe—or how much you get back. Understanding these changes is essential to avoid surprises and make the most of your return.

According to reports, several adjustments have been made to deductions, contribution limits, and tax rules that could influence your overall tax outcome.


Higher Standard Deduction

One of the biggest updates is the increase in the standard deduction. For 2025, single filers may see it rise to around $15,750, while married couples filing jointly could receive a higher combined deduction.

This change can help reduce taxable income, potentially lowering the amount of tax owed.


Changes That May Affect Your Refund

Even with higher deductions, your refund may not always increase. Tax outcomes depend on several factors, including income changes, tax credits, and withholding adjustments.

Experts note that even small updates in tax laws can significantly impact final returns, making it important to review your financial situation carefully.


Contribution Limits and Financial Planning

Another important update involves retirement contributions. Limits for accounts like 401(k)s have increased, allowing individuals to save more while potentially reducing taxable income.

This creates an opportunity for better long-term financial planning while also offering short-term tax benefits.


What This Means for You

These updates highlight the importance of staying informed before filing your taxes. Even if your income hasn’t changed, new tax rules could affect your refund or liability.

Reviewing deductions, credits, and contributions early can help you avoid mistakes and maximize your return.


Final Thoughts

Tax changes for 2025 may seem small, but they can have a noticeable impact on your finances. Being aware of these updates ensures you’re better prepared and can make smarter financial decisions when filing.

Source:
AOL – What You Need To Know About Your 2025 Tax Return
https://www.aol.com/articles/know-2025-tax-return-change-150006030.html

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Financial Expert Warns of Negative Implications of Sports Gambling

Sports gambling continues to rise in popularity, but financial experts warn that its impact goes far beyond simple entertainment. What many see as harmless fun can quietly lead to serious financial strain, behavioral issues, and even legal consequences.

According to financial expert Jenny Groberg, the real danger lies not just in losing money—but in how gambling reshapes spending habits and financial decision-making over time.


A Growing Financial Concern

The rapid growth of online and mobile betting has made gambling more accessible than ever. With just a smartphone, users can place bets anytime, increasing the likelihood of frequent and impulsive spending.

Experts emphasize that this constant accessibility can turn occasional betting into a regular financial drain. Small wagers may seem insignificant individually, but they often accumulate into substantial losses over time.


Behavioral and Psychological Impact

One of the biggest concerns is the behavioral effect of gambling. The excitement and reward associated with winning can create a cycle of repeated betting, often driven by emotional impulses rather than logic.

Financial experts note that this pattern can lead individuals to exceed their budgets and justify losses as part of entertainment, even when the financial impact becomes significant.


Legal and Tax Implications

Beyond financial losses, gambling can also lead to legal complications—especially in regions where it remains restricted. Even online betting does not exempt users from local laws.

Additionally, failing to report gambling winnings can result in tax penalties or even criminal consequences. Experts warn that unreported income may lead to fines and potential legal action.


Cryptocurrency and Hidden Transactions

The use of cryptocurrency in gambling has introduced new risks. Some users attempt to hide transactions through offshore platforms, believing it protects them from detection.

However, experts stress that these practices do not eliminate accountability and may further complicate legal and financial responsibilities.


Final Thoughts

While sports gambling may seem like a form of entertainment, its long-term effects can be damaging. Financial experts advise individuals to stay aware of the risks, maintain control over spending habits, and fully understand the legal implications before engaging in betting activities.

Source:
KJZZ News – Financial Expert Warns of Negative Implications of Sports Gambling
https://kjzz.com/news/local/financial-expert-warns-of-negative-implications-of-sports-gambling

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Jenny Groberg founded BookSmarts to support her family while her husband attended medical school. After being turned down a remote job opportunity, she became a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor and began consulting for small businesses. Her expertise in identifying profit leaks and customizing services contributed to the firm’s growth and success.

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When it comes to choosing the right accounting software, we know the options can be overwhelming. Our recent social media post touched on some popular choices like Xero, QuickBooks Online, and Sage. But if you’re still unsure about which software is the best fit for your business, don’t stress—you’re not alone.

Not only can BookSmarts’ accountants and bookkeepers work within any system you currently have in place, we can help you choose and set up the accounting software that best supports your financial goals. Whether you’re just starting out and need a simple solution to manage day-to-day transactions, or you’re scaling up and require a more robust platform with advanced features like multi-entity management or comprehensive reporting, we’ve got you covered. 

For those who want to dive deeper into their options, we recommend checking out NerdWallet’s detailed comparison chart. It offers an in-depth analysis of the top 8 accounting platforms for businesses, weighing the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed choice.

Remember, the key is not to get stuck in analysis paralysis. Choosing something is better than choosing nothing at all. And when your business grows or your preferences change down the road, we’re here to help you transition to a better-fitting solution with ease.

Our commitment to your success doesn’t end once your accounting system is up and running. We provide ongoing support to ensure you and your team are fully equipped to leverage the software’s capabilities. With our expert guidance, you can navigate the platform with confidence, avoid common pitfalls, and get the most out of your investment. 

 

Ready to take the next step? Give us a call, and let’s find the right financial management tools for your business together.

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FUTURE OF WORK

Is the Next Generation Confused About the Value of Remote Work?

Excerpt for an article BY ALEX FROST - JULY 23, 2024 on Success.com
So will my own kids think they’ll be poor if they work from home in their sweats rather than leaving in a suit like their dad? Hopefully not, with some guidance and daily education to the contrary.

Jenny Groberg, CEO and founder of BookSmarts Accounting and Bookkeeping and a work-from-home mom of five children, says that her “three older kids will do everything possible to work from home [or] remotely rather than in an office. The flexibility of remote work and the realization that I was able to successfully provide for the family while keeping them as my main focus as they grew up has opened their eyes and is driving them to work ‘smarter not harder,’” she adds.

Kids these days are also moving into the workforce with the expectation that nobody should have to work for a long span of time without room for coffee with a friend or a long lunch break to walk outside. “I think we see a bit of this effect in the current group of young people who are moving into the work sphere,” says Bonnie Scott, MA, LPC-S, a licensed professional counselor at Mindful Kindness Counseling and parent to a 10-year-old. “They are more likely to decentralize work in their lives, and they have boundaries around their personal time. They tend to flex the traditional work hours to meet their own schedule needs, so they work the required hours [and] get things done, but not in the typical eight-hour stretch.”

Maybe they don’t need to know it all yet

When learning about Groberg’s story, I realized that it might be fine—and even a sign that things are going well—if kids don’t know all the nuances of their parents’ work lives and related finances.

Groberg shares that “for 17 years, my children didn’t see or value the work I did remotely. They were oblivious to the fact that I contributed to the family finances. In fact, it was necessary for me to contribute and pay my husband’s way for school and residency and dig us out of student debt after only two years. For 17 years they also had no idea that my side hustle grew into a very successful company, but I am OK with that.

“I’m grateful because that means they didn’t feel neglected. My remote work enabled me to be at home with them and be present when they needed me. I am not offended that they don’t value my work as important as my husband’s employment. They know now what I did and that I was there for them, and that is what is most meaningful to me. For this reason, I will do everything I can to grow my company so I can offer more work to stay-at-home moms.”

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