Episode 111: IRS and Tax Time
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In this episode of the Justice for All podcast, host DeWitt Bingham welcomes Elder Michelle Lee, a 35-year veteran of the IRS and a dedicated church administrator, to discuss tax season and the importance of compliance with federal and state tax laws. The conversation covers key topics such as who is required to file taxes, the significance of the standard deduction, filing status options, and the consequences of failing to file—highlighting that non-filing can lead to legal repercussions after three years, even if no taxes are owed. Michelle shares personal insights from her IRS career, including how she once overpaid on her pension taxes and later recovered funds through an addendum. The episode also touches on charitable contributions, Social Security taxation, and the controversial idea of taxing churches, which Michelle firmly opposes. A powerful real-life story is shared about 'Afro Man,' a man who sued police after a warrantless home search, successfully defending his First Amendment right to create and monetize protest songs. The segment concludes with a discussion on church financial accountability and the concept of double taxation on Social Security, reinforcing the theme that tax compliance is both a legal and moral responsibility.
If you earn over $14,000, you are required to file a federal tax return, though those earning less may still benefit from filing to receive refunds.
The standard deduction ($16,000 in 2024) often makes itemizing unnecessary, but charitable contributions and dependents can still reduce your taxable income.
Failing to file taxes for three consecutive years can trigger IRS enforcement, even if you owe nothing, due to employer-reported income.
Social Security benefits may be taxed up to 85% depending on your total income, and retirees are still subject to federal income tax on pensions and benefits.
Churches must maintain accurate financial records and file annual income statements to maintain tax-exempt status, but the idea of taxing churches remains controversial and legally uncertain.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction and Constitutional Rights
Host DeWitt Bingham opens the episode with a reminder of key constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent, the right to counsel, and protections against cruel and unusual punishment and illegal searches.
Meet the Guest: Elder Michelle Lee
DeWitt introduces Elder Michelle Lee, a 35-year IRS veteran and church administrator, who shares her background growing up in Chicago Heights, her education in business and accounting, and her career path from clerk to printing specialist.
Tax Filing Basics for Students and Workers
Michelle explains who must file taxes, the standard deduction threshold, and the importance of filing even if no taxes are owed, using her grandson’s experience as a real-world example.
Filing Status and Tax Deductions
The hosts discuss filing status (single vs. married), standard deductions, and the benefits of itemizing, especially through charitable contributions, which can reduce Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
Deadlines, Extensions, and Penalties
“You should file your taxes every year, whether you owe or not owe, because after that third year, they're going to catch you because your employer has reported that you've earned income.”
“No matter what your belief is, the law is the law. It's the law.”
“You should file your taxes every year, whether you owe or not owe, because after that third year, they're going to catch you because your employer has reported that you've earned income.”
“Now we're still getting taxed on the federal side. I've heard you mention that. We're still getting taxed. And we already pay taxes on the Social Security.”
Host
Guest
Elder Michelle Lee
person
DeWitt Bingham
person
IRS
organization
Integrity Deliverance Church
organization
Social Security
other
Afro Man
person
Illinois
other
Amari
person
Missouri
other
Wesley Snipes
person
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