Mileage Rates, Mortgage Fraud, IT Cost Cutting, and Employer Provided Health Care
Adjusted 2009 Mileage Rates Both Higher and Lower Than 2008’s
If you tend to log more business driving time during the spring and summer, now’s a good time to review the 2009 mileage rates, which the IRS released late last year. Interestingly, the rates are higher than those released for the first half of 2008, but lower than those enacted midyear to counter high gas prices. The standard rate for business travel in an automobile (including vans, pickups and panel trucks) owned by the taxpayer is now 55 cents per mile. Limits do apply; ask Feeley & Driscoll for further details.
Many Personal Financial Frauds Prey On Those Struggling With Mortgages
While many Americans deal with skyrocketing mortgage rates, a variety of unscrupulous individuals and entities have moved in for the kill. Much of the problem stems from lack of information: A recent survey by marketing research firm Roper Public Affairs & Media reported that more than 50% of homeowners with tardy mortgage payments don’t realize their lenders have programs to help skirt foreclosure.
Venerable tech research firm offers up a variety of Information Technology (IT) cost-cutting measures
Gartner Inc. has been a prominent technology research and advisory company since its inception in 1979. This past fall, Gartner analysts released a list of no-nonsense ways businesses could save money on their technology costs. Topping the list was staff cuts; Gartner estimates that 37% of the average IT budget goes toward personnel. Other tips included eliminating unused software and modules, which often go unnoticed, and moving to Internet-based phone services to save on office relocation and increase call efficiency.
Most Americans Dependent on Employer-Provided Health Insurance
It may not be shocking news, but it’s worth noting in light of the massive job losses of recent months. In a survey by health care policy researchers the Kaiser Foundation and the Health Research & Educational Trust, a majority of respondents reported being dependent on their employers for health care coverage. These results emphasize the need for individuals to be aware of their coverage options in the event of unemployment as well as the added value of maintaining a personal emergency medical savings account.
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