Trump has pressed for voting changes. GOP majorities in Congress will try to make that happen ATLANTA (AP) — Republicans in Congress plan to move quickly in their effort to overhaul the nation’s voting procedures, seeing an opportunity with control of the White House and both chambers of Congress. They want to push through long-sought changes such as voter ID and proof-of-citizenship requirements. They say the measures are needed to restore public confidence in elections. That's after an erosion of trust that Democrats note has been fueled by false claims from Donald Trump and his allies of widespread fraud in the 2020 election. Democrats say they are willing to work with the GOP but want any changes to make it easier, not harder, to vote. Americans are exhausted by political news. TV ratings and a new AP-NORC poll show they're tuning out NEW YORK (AP) — A lot of Americans, after an intense presidential election campaign, are looking for a break in political news. That's evident in cable television news ratings and a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. The poll found nearly two-thirds of Americans saying they've found the need recently to cut down on their consumption of political and government news. That's particularly true among Democrats following President-elect Donald Trump's victory, although a significant number of Republicans and independents feel the same way. Cable networks MSNBC and CNN are really seeing a slump. That's also happened in years past for networks that particularly appeal to supporters of one candidate. Israel strikes Houthi rebels in Yemen's capital while the WHO chief says he was meters away JERUSALEM (AP) — A new round of Israeli airstrikes in Yemen have targeted the Houthi rebel-held capital of Sanaa and multiple ports. The World Health Organization’s director-general said the bombardment on Thursday took place just “meters away” as he was about to board a flight in Sanaa. He says a crew member was hurt. The strikes followed several days of Houthi attacks and launches setting off sirens in Israel. Israel's military says it attacked infrastructure used by the Houthis at the international airport in Sanaa, power stations and ports. The Israeli military didn't immediate respond to questions about the WHO chief's statement. The US says it pushed retraction of a famine warning for north Gaza. Aid groups express concern. WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials say they asked for — and got — the retraction of an independent monitor's warning of imminent famine in north Gaza. The internationally Famine Early Warning System Network issued the warning this week. The new report had warned that starvation deaths in north Gaza could reach famine levels as soon as next month. It cited what it called Israel's “near-total blockade” of food and water. The U.S. ambassador to Israel, Jacob Lew, criticized the finding as inaccurate and irresponsible. The U.S. Agency for International Development, which funds the famine-monitoring group, told the AP it had asked for and gotten the report's retraction. USAID officials tell The Associated Press that it had asked the group for greater review of discrepancies in some of the data. India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh, architect of economic reforms, dies aged 92 NEW DELHI (AP) — India’s former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, has died. He was 92. The hospital said Singh was admitted to New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences late Thursday after his health deteriorated due to “sudden loss of consciousness at home.". He was “being treated for age-related medical conditions,” the statement added. A mild-mannered technocrat, Singh became one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers for 10 years and earned a reputation as a man of great personal integrity. But his sterling image was tainted by allegations of corruption against his ministers. What is known about a plane crash in Kazakhstan that killed 38 of 67 people on board The crash of an Azerbaijani airliner in Kazakhstan has killed 38 of 67 people on board. Azerbaijan Airlines’ Embraer 190 was en route from Azerbaijani capital Baku to the Russian city of Grozny in the North Caucasus on Wednesday when it was diverted for reasons that aren’t fully clear yet. It crashed while making an attempt to land in Aktau in Kazakhstan after flying east across the Caspian Sea. Officials in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Russia haven't commented on a possible cause of the crash pending an official investigation. Some commentators pointed out holes in the plane's tail section pictured after the crash as a sign that it could have been fired upon by air defense systems. Ukraine's military intelligence says North Korean troops are suffering heavy battlefield losses KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine's military intelligence says North Korean troops are suffering heavy losses in Russia's Kursk region and face logistical difficulties as a result of Ukrainian attacks. The intelligence agency said Thursday that Ukrainian strikes near Novoivanovka inflicted heavy casualties on North Korean units. Ukraine's president said earlier this week that 3,000 North Korean troops have been killed and wounded in the fighting in the Kursk region. It marked the first significant estimate by Ukraine of North Korean casualties several weeks after Kyiv announced that North Korea had sent 10,000 to 12,000 troops to Russia to help it in the almost 3-year war. How the stock market defied expectations again this year, by the numbers NEW YORK (AP) — What a wonderful year 2024 has been for investors. U.S. stocks ripped higher and carried the S&P 500 to records as the economy kept growing and the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates. The benchmark index posted its first back-to-back annual gains of more than 20% since 1998. The year featured many familiar winners, such as Big Tech, which got even bigger as their stock prices kept growing. But it wasn’t just Apple, Nvidia and the like. Bitcoin and gold surged and “Roaring Kitty” reappeared to briefly reignite the meme stock craze. Holiday shoppers increased spending by 3.8% despite higher prices New data shows holiday sales rose this year even as Americans wrestled with still high prices in many grocery necessities and other financial worries. According to Mastercard SpendingPulse, holiday sales from the beginning of November through Christmas Eve climbed 3.8%, a faster pace than the 3.1% increase from a year earlier. The measure tracks all kinds of payments including cash and debit cards. This year, retailers were even more under the gun to get shoppers in to buy early and in bulk since there were five fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Mastercard SpendingPulse says the last five days of the season accounted for 10% of the spending. Sales of clothing, electronics and Jewelry rose. Why this Mexican American woman played a vital role in the US sacramental peyote trade MIRANDO CITY, Texas (AP) — Amada Cardenas, a Mexican American woman who lived in the tiny border town of Mirando City in South Texas, played an important role in the history of the peyote trade. She and her husband were the first federally licensed peyote dealers who harvested and sold the sacramental plant to followers of the Native American Church in the 1930s. After her husband's death in 1967, Cardenas continued to welcome generations of Native American Church members to her home until her death in 2005, just before her 101st birthday.
The issuance of such a substantial sum of loans underscores the commitment of the government to bolster the growth and resilience of small and micro enterprises, which are the backbone of the economy. These enterprises play a vital role in creating jobs, driving innovation, and fostering economic development, especially in times of uncertainty and volatility.NEW HOPE, Pa. (AP) — Dayle Haddon, an actor, activist and trailblazing former “Sports Illustrated” model who pushed back against age discrimination by reentering the industry as a widow, has died in a Pennsylvania home from what authorities believe was carbon monoxide poisoning. Authorities in Bucks County found Haddon, 76, dead in a second-floor bedroom Friday morning after emergency dispatchers were notified about a person unconscious at the Solebury Township home. A 76-year-old man police later identified as Walter J. Blucas of Erie was hospitalized in critical condition. Responders detected a high level of carbon monoxide in the property and township police said Saturday that investigators determined that “a faulty flue and exhaust pipe on a gas heating system caused the carbon monoxide leak.” Two medics were taken to a hospital for carbon monoxide exposure and a police officer was treated at the scene. As a model, Haddon appeared on the covers of Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Elle and Esquire in the 1970s and 1980s, as well as the 1973 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. She also appeared in about two dozen films from the 1970s to 1990s, according to IMDb.com, including 1994’s “Bullets Over Broadway,” starring John Cusack. Haddon left modeling after giving birth to her daughter, Ryan, in the mid-1970s, but then had to reenter the workforce after her husband's 1991 death. This time she found the modeling industry far less friendly: “They said to me, ‘At 38, you’re not viable,’” Haddon told The New York Times in 2003. Working a menial job at an advertising agency, Haddon began reaching out to cosmetic companies, telling them there was a growing market to sell beauty products to aging baby boomers. She eventually landed a contract with Clairol, followed by Estée Lauder and then L’Oreal, for which she promoted the company's anti-aging products for more than a decade. She also hosted beauty segments for CBS’s “The Early Show.” "I kept modeling, but in a different way," she told The Times, “I became a spokesperson for my age.” In 2008, Haddon founded WomenOne, an organization aimed at advancing educational opportunities for girls and women in marginalized communities, including Rwanda, Haiti and Jordan.' Haddon was born in Toronto and began modeling as a teenager to pay for ballet classes — she began her career with the Canadian ballet company Les Grands Ballet Canadiens, according to her website . Haddon's daughter, Ryan, said in a social media post that her mother was “everyone’s greatest champion. An inspiration to many.” “A pure heart. A rich inner life. Touching so many lives. A life well lived. Rest in Light, Mom,” she said. The Associated Press
Manchester United's Last Premier League Title-Winning Squad: 17 Retired, Only 5 Still Active in Top Five LeaguesDespite the challenges and uncertainties ahead, there is a sense of cautious optimism among the staff at Weber. The temporary takeover by Willcox, coupled with the impending departure of Weber, presents an opportunity for the organization to redefine its identity and chart a new course for the future.
As the conversation surrounding Musk's emoji response continued to unfold online, it raised questions about the intersection of technology, communication, and perception in the digital age. While some viewed the exchange as a lighthearted interaction between two prominent figures, others saw it as a glimpse into the complexities of interpreting emotions and intentions in the online realm.NEW YORK — After another special teams disaster in the Pinstripe Bowl, Nebraska faces what coach Matt Rhule called a “complete and total overhaul” with the unit in the offseason. Rhule did not say whether that overhaul would include replacing special teams coordinator Ed Foley, a longtime Rhule aide who just finished his second year in the role. NU won the game 20-15 and successfully pulled of a fake punt pass from Brian Buschini to Isaac Gifford that converted a fourth down into a first down. It was, in essence, Nebraska’s one special teams bright spot of the day. Buschini had a fourth quarter punt blocked and returned to the NU 2, which quickly became a Boston College touchdown. After Nebraska’s second touchdown of the game, Buschini couldn’t handle a wayward snap that turned into a blocked extra point and, after a BC return, two points for the Eagles. People are also reading... Beatrice house suffers severe damage from Christmas fire Is John Dutton real? Meet the powerful rancher seemingly inspiring the 'Yellowstone' legend Beatrice church starts construction on fellowship hall At the courthouse, Dec. 21, 2024 City employee retires after 47 years Gage County supervisors vote down FOP contract offer Former Beatrice man sentenced for sex assault of runaway Two faces charges in January vehicle thefts Beatrice's Schroeder wins at Junior Angus show Downtown Beatrice festive for the holidays BPD and Yellow Cab want to provide a safe ride What’s open and closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 2024? Beatrice man pleads guilty to receiving child sex abuse images Restored Palmer-Epard Cabin reopens to the public at Homestead Main Street welcomes new director Without those two plays, Boston College only scored six total points. Nebraska special teams contributed to the 13-10 loss at Iowa and nearly led to a loss to Rutgers earlier this year. “It wasn’t very good,” Rhule said in the bowels of Yankee Stadium. “You can’t get a blocked punt. I didn’t necessarily see how it happened...we’ve had snapping issues all year long, and I think we’ve tried to address that for next year.” NU signed New Hampshire transfer long snapper Kevin Gallic in December to replace the Husker duo of Camden Witucki and Aidan Flege. Snapping issues contributed to Nebraska trying — and failing to execute — a fake field goal run play from Boston College’s 8. Buschini, as the holder, came nowhere near the end zone. “Obviously should’ve just dropped back and thrown it again,” Rhule said. “But we had the numbers there and the (Boston College) kid just made a good play.” For Nebraska to be “where we want to be next year” — that is, competing for the College Football Playoff, Rhule said, the team has to be a “little better in some areas” on defense and “really improve” on offense, which Rhule believes is happening under new offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen. “Special teams, we need a complete and total overhaul of that,” Rhule said. “We have to be better at that. I put those things on my shoulders to get it done. It has not been good this year.” According to ESPN’s Football Power Index, Nebraska ranks 105th out of 134 teams in special teams efficiencies headed into the Pinstripe Bowl. Boston College ranked 110th. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Araujo's absence has been keenly felt by Barcelona, as his defensive prowess and physical presence have been sorely missed on the pitch. The young defender had been enjoying a breakout season prior to his injury, establishing himself as a crucial player in Barcelona's backline. His absence has forced Barcelona to shuffle their defensive lineup and rely on less experienced players to fill the void left by Araujo's injury.In the fast-paced, dog-eat-dog world of cryptocurrencies, scalability and use are crucial for long-run survival. While Solana (SOL) and XRP (XRP) are usually coming on strong in their areas, they are causing limitation that forthcoming innovations such as Lightchain AI (LCAI) are slowly panicking into showing. Armed with next-gen blockchain technology, cross-industry application, and the ongoing Lightchain AI presale, LCAI is emerging as a strong candidate even capable of taking over Solana and XRP in scalability and utility. Solana's growing pains are Lightchain AI's gain Solana put a foot forward with lightning-fast transactions and low fees securing the best place for DeFi and NFTs. But, due to regular network hiccups and centralization rumblings, it is beginning to tarnish. Scalability? Well, let's just say Solana doesn't work well under peak traffic—it's like you and your friends trying to squeeze an elephant through a revolving door. Enter Lightchain AI, the blockchain that eats heavy loads for breakfast. With sharding and layered solutions baked in, this boy remains cool under pressure. While Solana does everything, Lightchain AI goes all-out with AI-specific tasks. Built for industries that need top computational power, it embodies the spirit of brute strength. In a nutshell, Lightchain AI moves forward wherever Solana sores out. Now let's outmaneuver with scalability the smart way! XRP’s Utility Faces Stiff Competition XRP has ruled the cross-border payment area for a long time, due to its quick deal speeds and low costs. But, rules that are not clear and rival from new tech have held back its growth. XRP’s aim on one use case—payments—stops it from being flexible in other areas letting space for more adaptable projects to take market parts Lightchain AI, on the other hand, has many uses in different fields. Its Smart Machine helps makers to create apps that are not just for money but also for areas like health care, supply chain͏s and delivery. This wide use makes Lightchain AI more attractive and places it as a token that can help fix many real-world problems. Additionally, Lightchain AI’s decentralized governance model empowers token holders to shape the ecosystem, ensuring that the platform evolves in line with user needs. This inclusive approach enhances the platform’s utility and fosters long-term engagement, making it a compelling alternative to XRP’s centralized framework. Lightchain AI Platform Redefining Innovation Lightchain AI is revolutionizing the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology to empower decentralized applications and governance. Its distinctiveness lies in its groundbreaking features. The Memecoin Launchpad drives innovation by equipping developers with AI-powered tools to monetize their ideas, fostering a dynamic and creative ecosystem. At the core of its design is an advanced technical infrastructure, including the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), optimized for AI-specific tasks such as model training and inference, alongside the Proof of Intelligence (PoI) consensus mechanism, which rewards nodes for valuable AI computations. With sophisticated scalability solutions like sharding and Layer 2 technologies, Lightchain AI ensures efficient and high-throughput performance. Furthermore, it places a strong emphasis on privacy and security, incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs) and Homomorphic Encryption to enable computations on encrypted data without compromising user privacy. This comprehensive and innovative approach establishes Lightchain AI as a pioneering platform poised to shape the future of technology. https://lightchain.ai https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf https://x.com/LightchainAI https://t.me/LightchainProtocol Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.Investors, stakeholders, and industry observers are closely monitoring the situation and assessing the potential implications for the company's operations and market position. The revelation of Nezha Motor Company as a judgment debtor with a multi-million RMB execution target has underscored the importance of corporate governance, transparency, and compliance in the business world.And as Mrs. Li lay next to her husband, who had finally fallen into a deep slumber, she couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle at the absurdity of it all. For in the midst of drunken confessions and innocent promises, she knew that their family was a sanctuary of love, laughter, and understanding, with each member bringing their own unique brand of humor and warmth to the table.
In the wake of this incident, the management of public facilities across the city has been urged to conduct thorough checks of their ventilation systems and heating equipment to ensure the safety of employees and customers. Proper training on recognizing the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and emergency protocols in the event of a gas leak should also be provided to staff members.As the former host navigates the world of acting, they are met with support and encouragement from both fans and industry professionals. Their transition has sparked curiosity and excitement, with audiences eager to see this familiar face in a new light. From casting directors to fellow actors, the industry has welcomed them with open arms, recognizing their potential and dedication to their craft.The news of the chief prosecutor's alleged involvement in soliciting prostitution has sent shockwaves through the legal community in Heilongjiang. Known for his unimpeachable reputation and dedication to upholding justice, this scandal has tarnished his image and raised questions about the integrity of the local judicial system.
Unleash the power of ancient legends in "Shadow Legends: Legends Rising," an epic fantasy RPG that immerses players in a richly detailed world of magic and mystery. Players can recruit legendary heroes, embark on perilous quests, and engage in strategic battles against formidable foes. The game's deep lore, expansive world-building, and engaging gameplay mechanics make it a must-play for RPG fans at the festival.By MICHAEL R. SISAK NEW YORK (AP) — Lawyers for Sean “Diddy” Combs tried for a third time Friday to persuade a judge to let him leave jail while he awaits his sex trafficking trial, but a decision won’t come until next week. Judge Arun Subramanian said at a hearing that he will release his decision on Combs’ latest request for bail after Combs’ lawyers and federal prosecutors file letters addressing outstanding issues. Those letters are due at noon on Monday, Subramanian said. Combs’ lawyers pitched having him await trial under around-the-clock surveillance either his mansion on an island near Miami Beach or — after the judge scoffed at that location — an apartment on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Their plan essentially amounts to putting Combs on house arrest, with strict limits on who he has contact with. But prosecutors argue that Combs has routinely flouted jail rules and can’t be trusted not to interfere with witnesses or the judicial process. “The argument that he’s a lawless person who doesn’t follow instructions isn’t factually accurate,” Combs lawyer Anthony Ricco argued. “The idea that he’s an out-of-control individual who has to be detained isn’t factually accurate.” Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges that he coerced and abused women for years with help from a network of associates and employees while silencing victims through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings. His trial is slated to begin May 5. The Bad Boy Records founder remains locked up at a Brooklyn federal jail, where he spent his Nov. 4 birthday. Two other judges previously concluded that Combs would be a danger to the community if he is released and an appeals court judge last month denied Combs’ immediate release while a three-judge panel of the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals weighs his bail request. Friday’s hearing was the second time Combs was in court this week. On Tuesday, a judge blocked prosecutors from using as evidence papers that were seized from his cell during jail-wide sweep for contraband and weapons at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. As he entered through a side door, Combs waved to relatives including his mother and several of his children in the courtroom gallery, tapping his hand to his heart and blowing kisses at them. He then hugged his lead attorney, Marc Agnifilo, before taking a seat at the defense table. He was not handcuffed or shackled and wore a beige jail uniform, occasionally pulling a pair of reading glasses from his pocket as he peered at papers in front of him. Prosecutors maintain that no bail conditions will mitigate the “risk of obstruction and dangerousness to others” of releasing Combs from jail. Prosecutors contend that while locked up the “I’ll Be Missing You” artist has orchestrated social media campaigns aimed at tainting the jury pool. They allege that he has also attempted to publicly leak materials he thinks would be helpful to his case and is contacting potential witnesses via third parties. “Simply put, the defendant cannot be trusted,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik argued. Combs’ lawyer Teny Geragos countered that, given the strict release conditions proposed, “it would be impossible for him not to follow rules.”
So, how does this revolutionary design work? At the core of the system is a sophisticated water recycling and reuse system that maximizes efficiency while minimizing waste. By capturing and treating water vapor produced during the data center's operations, Microsoft is able to recycle it for various secondary uses within the facility. This closed-loop system ensures that water is used and reused in a sustainable manner, significantly reducing the overall water footprint of the data center.Lord Glazer's attempts to reform Manchester United have been met with skepticism and resistance from both within and outside the club. His grand promises of revitalizing the team and restoring its former glory have fallen flat in the face of continued underperformance on the pitch and off-field controversies.UTG Inc. Board of Directors Reinstates $23 Million Stock Repurchase Program
A house opposite Valluvarkottam was damaged on Friday after a huge tree that was uprooted at the landmark, where renovation works are under way, fell inside its premises. A two-wheeler rider was injured in the incident. Residents complained about the incident on social media after officials of various civic agencies, including the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and the Public Works Department (PWD), reportedly refused to help them in getting the tree removed from the house. They demanded that the State government repair the damage to the building and compensate them. They also wanted it to improve coordination between civic agencies during such events and ensure the safety of residents near sites where such work was under way. Usha Krishnan, a resident of Nungambakkam, whose house was damaged in the accident said they tried calling GCC officials to remove the tree. The officials told them that the tree was on PWD land and refused to help. The residents had gathered on the streets at 7.30 p.m. on Friday in protest and dispersed around 2.30 a.m. on Saturday. On X (formerly twitter), Ms. Krishnan wrote: “Extremely stressful evening and night. Tree from Valluvarkottam fell on our house and broke many parts of the wall and the car shed. We are yet to ascertain what is the damage and financial outlay for repairs. No one from @chennaicorp has reached out.” “Tree-cutting contractors from Valluvarkottam were removing the wreckage without any official supervision. We need to be compensated accordingly. The damage to the property is estimated at ₹1 lakh. The jolly work above the compound wall, car shed, and garden were damaged. The incident happened when two senior citizens were alone at home. We are disappointed that the authorities are not reaching out to us,” Ms. Krishnan said. “On my way home from work, I was crossing Valluvarkottam around 7.30 p.m. on Friday when the trunk of the tree missed my head by a hair. The tree’s fall also caused a nearby transformer to burst. My two-wheeler was damaged. Hearing the noise from the transformer bursting, residents gathered on the road,” said S. Dhinakar, an information technology professional who was crossing the stretch when the incident occurred. Officials from Valluvarkottam said they would restore the house and repair the two-wheeler damaged in the accident. Published - December 28, 2024 11:49 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp RedditA celebration of the indomitable spirit of our freedom struggleTrailblazing model Dayle Haddon dies from suspected carbon monoxide poisoningIn conclusion, the November export data may show a slight slowdown in growth rate, but the overall trend for China's export industry remains positive. With a new high in export volume for the year, Chinese exporters have demonstrated their resilience and competitiveness in the face of challenges. By staying vigilant and adaptable, Chinese exporters can continue to thrive in the global market and contribute to the country's economic growth and development.
Starting between the sticks in Schiller's lineup is the ever-reliable Palmer. The shot-stopper put in a commanding performance in Round 15, making crucial saves and organizing his defense effectively. Palmer's presence in goal provided a solid foundation for his team and played a key role in securing a clean sheet.In a recent shocking development, the hosts accused of detaining a missing female postgraduate student for 13 years have vehemently denied the allegations. The woman, who disappeared without a trace over a decade ago, was reported to have been found in captivity by local authorities. However, the purported captors, known as the "hosts," have refuted these claims, asserting their innocence in the matter.In the end, the retirement of the 34-year-old Brazilian defender and his twin brother symbolizes the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter. As they bid farewell to the hallowed grounds of the football pitch, their contributions, spirit, and love for the game will continue to inspire and resonate with fans and players around the world, keeping their legacy alive for generations to come.
By Kemberley Washington, CPA, Bankrate.com (TNS) As the end of the year approaches, now’s the time to start preparing for filing your 2024 tax return in 2025. When it comes to tax strategies, generally Dec. 31 is the deadline to make changes that might lower your tax bill. One major exception is the deadline for contributing to a Roth or traditional IRA : You have until April 15, 2025, to make a contribution to a Roth or traditional IRA for tax year 2024. If you qualify for deductible IRA contributions , then a contribution to your traditional IRA can reduce your taxable income for 2024. Here are tips and strategies to prepare now for the 2025 tax-filing deadline. If you had significant changes in your life in 2024 — maybe you got married or divorced, started your own business, or had to claim unemployment benefits — your taxes may be more complicated. As a result, you might need to hire a certified public accountant (CPA), enrolled agent (EA) or other tax professional to prepare and file your taxes. If you decide to hire someone, it’s best to start planning for that sooner rather than later. Waiting until the calendar flips to April could cost you. The average fee for a professional to prepare and file a simple Form 1040 tax return, with no itemized deductions, is about $220, according to a survey by the National Society of Accountants in 2020-2021, the most recent data available. But that amount rises quickly for more complex returns, and varies depending on where you live. For example, a Form 1040 with itemized deductions costs an average of $432 in states on the Pacific Coast, compared with $285 in New England. No matter where you live, prices usually rise as the tax deadline approaches, so it’s smart to start searching for a tax pro soon. If you’re uncomfortable doing your taxes on your own and can’t afford a CPA, enrolled agent or other tax pro, or to pay for tax software , there are free options to consider. The IRS currently offers three ways to prepare your taxes for free: •With the IRS Free File program, the IRS partners with for-profit tax-software companies that offer free tax-prep software to eligible taxpayers so they can file their federal tax returns for free. Some taxpayers may also qualify for a free state tax filing, depending on the software provider. In January, the IRS will announce the income limit to qualify for the program for the 2025 tax season (for filing 2024 tax returns). For the 2024 tax season (2023 tax returns), taxpayers’ adjusted gross income (AGI) couldn’t exceed $79,000. •The IRS also offers its Direct File program, a free tool that allows you to file your federal income tax return directly with the IRS at no cost. The program supports simple tax returns and is available only in certain states. Check to see if you qualify here. •Another free-filing option is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. IRS-certified volunteers offer free basic tax preparation in person to people who earn less than $67,000 a year, are disabled or whose English is limited. The IRS has an online location tool for hundreds of free tax preparation sites in the U.S. (the locator tool is updated from February through April). Some VITA sites also offer online tax-prep assistance. Now is a good time to create an IRS online account. If you want to see your Form 1040 from last year, or you’re missing a prior year Form W-2 or mortgage interest statement, you can find your documents using this free tax tool. Another benefit of creating an IRS online account is that it allows you to quickly obtain your prior year’s tax information without sitting on the phone for hours with an IRS representative, says Carl Johnson, a certified public accountant in New Orleans. An IRS online account also lets you view your account balance and payment history for each year. You can also create a payment plan to settle your federal income tax debt within minutes. If you’re 73 years old and have enjoyed watching your 401(k) or IRA grow tax-free without touching it, remember that the IRS is going to want its share each year. That means you’ll have to make withdrawals — and pay income tax. If you turned 73 in 2024, plan to take your required minimum distribution (RMD) at the latest by April 1, 2025. Read this IRS bulletin for more information. The amount of your RMDs is based on your age and the year-end values of your retirement accounts. A Roth IRA has two big tax advantages over a traditional IRA : Qualified withdrawals are not considered income for federal (and usually state) tax purposes, and you don’t have to take distributions from a Roth every year once you reach age 73. Converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA may save you money in the long run. Just know that when you convert an IRA to a Roth, it’s considered taxable income, which will raise your tax bill for that year. Generally, it’s best to convert to a Roth IRA when you’re in a low-income year. As tax season approaches, many people start receiving phone calls, emails and texts from entities claiming to be the IRS. Be wary, and understand that these are scams. Typically, the IRS will mail you a notice before using any other method of communication to notify you concerning issues with your tax return. The IRS won’t reach out via social media or text messaging. Relatedly, the IRS warns taxpayers to be careful when choosing a tax preparer. Taking time to vet your tax preparer is crucial to protect yourself from tax scams and fraud. Before hiring a tax professional, search that person’s name in the IRS database of federal tax return preparers to avoid dishonest “professionals.” “Taxpayers should check the tax professional’s credentials,” Johnson says. Tax pros without credentials “may take questionable positions without any degree of scrutiny or fear of losing their access to the profession,” Johnson says. Taxpayers who don’t file a tax return and owe a tax bill, or who file but don’t pay their tax bill on time, risk severe penalties. The IRS can even seize assets if necessary. Respond quickly if the IRS has been sending you letters because it found an error on your return or claims you owe back taxes. Typically, the IRS will send you a notice if you have a balance due, changes were made to your tax return, or the agency needs additional information. “If you ignore a collection letter from the IRS, you may face wage garnishments, liens, bank levies, and other adverse action. And in some cases, the amount due may increase for failure to respond,” Johnson says. Keep in mind the IRS does offer installment plans and other payment plans. Make copies of your correspondence and use only the U.S. Postal Service, the postmark from which is your proof of timeliness when responding. But whatever you do, don’t ignore the IRS because this may cause more issues in the future. ©2024 Bankrate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.