Are you ready for April 15? Do you know how the Notary fees you’ve been paid need to be reported on your income tax? Take our quiz and see how prepared you are.
This quiz includes general information only, and each Notary’s tax situation can differ based on various factors. If you have specific questions about your income tax situation, contact the IRS or a qualified tax advisor. — The Editors
1. True or False. Notary fees are subject to self-employment tax.
2. True or False. Mobile Notaries claiming a mileage deduction do not need to keep a record of how many miles they travel to and from each assignment.
3. True or False. Using a home office for non-business purposes may disqualify you from claiming a home office deduction.
4. True or False. You should immediately provide bank or payment information in response to a phone call or email saying that you owe money to the IRS.
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ANSWERS:
1. False. Notarization fees are not subject to self-employment tax but be sure to check with a qualified tax professional or the IRS if you have questions or if there are other factors that may affect how you report income. See IRS Publication 17 for more information on Notary fees and taxes.
2. False. If you claim a deduction for the mileage you travel to and from notarization assignments, the IRS may not allow it unless you have records supporting the mileage claimed. Mobile Notaries claiming a mileage deduction should keep a detailed paper or electronic log that includes the date and miles traveled to each assignment.
3. True. Home office deductions have very strict requirements. If a home office space isn’t used exclusively for business purposes, it may not qualify as a deduction.
4. False. Identity thieves often call victims at tax time asking for bank or credit card information and claiming to be from the IRS. Bruce Dorris, vice president and program director with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, said Notaries should never provide their bank account or credit card information in response to such requests. Instead, report any suspicious phone calls or emails to the IRS or Federal Trade Commission.
David Thun is an Associate Editor at the National Notary Association.
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