If a taxpayer sold goods or services in 2023 and received payments through certain payment apps or online marketplaces or accepted payment cards, they could have received a third party reporting document&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.A51zkyBxk0lMd5h6Ht9DoyCKCc0Cr9t5os06PajMQZ8/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>.

Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS announced&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.tjYFs1E7pGGfXTGpkndsSzo8DjMRi5ZLDPCAccqqlCo/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Notice 2023-74</a>, which delayed the new federal law $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.oUG_OIf39uxMZgBicF98z6JsuwQIyYjEqaDoNlyqx0M/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds remained in place for 2023, which are more than $20,000 in payments and over 200 transactions. Taxpayers could have still received forms below the threshold.

It’s important to know that regardless of if a taxpayer received a Form 1099-K or not,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUtaXJzLXJlbWluZGVyLXRvLXJlcG9ydC1hbGwtaW5jb21lLWdpZy1lY29ub215LWFuZC1zZXJ2aWNlLWluZHVzdHJ5LWRpZ2l0YWwtb3ItZm9yZWlnbi1hc3NldHMtYW5kLXNvdXJjZXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.BKcKZSSmmLf04wBwxe95ds4LhbgOCA79vzcRZhs2VdM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">they must report their income</a>. This includes payments they receive in cash, property, goods, digital assets or foreign sources or assets.

The Form 1099-K should not report personal payments like gifts and reimbursements.

It’s important to understand&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.5tAB1mFMj3NZsM0aBhB2iw2GpzG-S1zNVOWGPL3RCeg/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">why an individual received a Form 1099-K</a>. Taxpayers can then use it with their other tax records when it’s time to file their return. The form provides the gross amount of payment card/third party network transactions and may include a combination of different kinds of total payments received.

It's important to note, just because a payment is reported on a Form 1099-K does not mean it’s taxable.

Taxpayers should review the form or forms, determine if the amount is correct, and determine any deductible expenses associated with the payment they may be able to claim when they file their taxes.

If an individual sold items at a loss, which means they paid more for the items than for what they sold them, there is not a tax liability. They’ll be able to zero out the payment on their tax return by reporting both the payment and an offsetting adjustment on a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.RDXcbE65C3Mc181G2sUnfFCpvRP69h83YXH2PMZl5YY/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1040, Schedule 1</a>. This will ensure if they received these forms, they don't have to pay taxes they don't owe.

If an individual sold items at a gain, which means they paid less than for what they sold it, they will have to report that gain as income, and it's taxable.

See IRS.gov&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.YVftzmUtfO9ofijaGc6dWLXhBsfLAiGnFgNxlU7dpbA/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for specific instruction on how to report personal item sales.

What to do with a Form 1099-K received in error

People may get a Form 1099-K when they shouldn't have if it:

If the payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or gross payment amount is incorrect taxpayers should request a corrected form from the issuer.

Don't wait to file taxes. To file a tax return, take these steps:

See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.TrP-blq5a2Vt3kfVPW4mlDhFlKHHi1azDXJCRKvS5Z0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for more information on how to report an incorrect Form 1099-K.

See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.nIYdvCcNQbeNS2PFoHvck5Sgle4JXyxH3QTDgj032n0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Understanding Your Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.m1EKHm7QpmPHvcyRTffZFGPbl73S1PcHmn5Y_vIFo60/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>&nbsp;for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869881583.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Internal Revenue ServiceIf a taxpayer sold goods or services in 2023 and received payments through certain payment apps or online marketplaces or accepted payment cards, they could have received a third party reporting document&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.A51zkyBxk0lMd5h6Ht9DoyCKCc0Cr9t5os06PajMQZ8/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>.Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS announced&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.tjYFs1E7pGGfXTGpkndsSzo8DjMRi5ZLDPCAccqqlCo/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Notice 2023-74</a>, which delayed the new federal law $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.oUG_OIf39uxMZgBicF98z6JsuwQIyYjEqaDoNlyqx0M/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds remained in place for 2023, which are more than $20,000 in payments and over 200 transactions. Taxpayers could have still received forms below the threshold.It’s important to know that regardless of if a taxpayer received a Form 1099-K or not,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUtaXJzLXJlbWluZGVyLXRvLXJlcG9ydC1hbGwtaW5jb21lLWdpZy1lY29ub215LWFuZC1zZXJ2aWNlLWluZHVzdHJ5LWRpZ2l0YWwtb3ItZm9yZWlnbi1hc3NldHMtYW5kLXNvdXJjZXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.BKcKZSSmmLf04wBwxe95ds4LhbgOCA79vzcRZhs2VdM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">they must report their income</a>. This includes payments they receive in cash, property, goods, digital assets or foreign sources or assets.The Form 1099-K should not report personal payments like gifts and reimbursements.What to do when filing taxesIt’s important to understand&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.5tAB1mFMj3NZsM0aBhB2iw2GpzG-S1zNVOWGPL3RCeg/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">why an individual received a Form 1099-K</a>. Taxpayers can then use it with their other tax records when it’s time to file their return. The form provides the gross amount of payment card/third party network transactions and may include a combination of different kinds of total payments received.It's important to note, just because a payment is reported on a Form 1099-K does not mean it’s taxable.Taxpayers should review the form or forms, determine if the amount is correct, and determine any deductible expenses associated with the payment they may be able to claim when they file their taxes.Selling personal items at a lossIf an individual sold items at a loss, which means they paid more for the items than for what they sold them, there is not a tax liability. They’ll be able to zero out the payment on their tax return by reporting both the payment and an offsetting adjustment on a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.RDXcbE65C3Mc181G2sUnfFCpvRP69h83YXH2PMZl5YY/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1040, Schedule 1</a>. This will ensure if they received these forms, they don't have to pay taxes they don't owe.Selling personal items at a gainIf an individual sold items at a gain, which means they paid less than for what they sold it, they will have to report that gain as income, and it's taxable.See IRS.gov&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.YVftzmUtfO9ofijaGc6dWLXhBsfLAiGnFgNxlU7dpbA/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for specific instruction on how to report personal item sales.What to do with a Form 1099-K received in errorPeople may get a Form 1099-K when they shouldn't have if it:<ul>
 <li>Reports personal payments from family or friends like gifts or reimbursements.</li><li>Doesn't belong to them.</li><li>Duplicates a Form 1099-K or other information reporting form they already received.</li>
 </ul>If this happens:<ul>
 <li>Contact the issuer immediately – see "Filer" on the top left corner of Form 1099-K to find out the name and contact information of the issuer.</li><li>Ask for a corrected Form 1099-K that shows a zero amount.</li><li>Keep a copy of the original form and all correspondence with the issuer for your records.</li><li>Don't wait to file taxes.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsjY29ycmVjdGVkIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.CAfQFlFBVDDF8WV26gkgFJUIlCTTry1CpIlwMtEbo1c/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">File even if a corrected Form 1099-K is unavailable</a>.</li>
 </ul>What to do with an incorrect Form 1099-KIf the payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or gross payment amount is incorrect taxpayers should request a corrected form from the issuer.<ul>
 <li>See "Filer" on the top left corner of Form 1099-K to find the name and contact information of the issuer. If a taxpayer doesn't recognize the issuer, they should contact the Payment Settlement Entity (PSE) identified on the bottom left corner of the form above their account number.</li><li>Keep a copy of the corrected Form 1099-K with other tax records, along with any correspondence from the issuer or PSE.</li><li>Don't contact the IRS. The IRS can't correct a Form 1099-K from an issuer.</li>
 </ul>Don't wait to file taxes. To file a tax return, take these steps:<ul>
 <li>If the Payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is incorrect report payments from the Form 1099-K and any sources of income on the appropriate tax return you normally file.</li><li>If the gross payment amount is incorrect report the amount from your incorrect Form 1099-K on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.8Rz-jbO5Po_ZLTYVi-mZOLeBZ42cFHd4pb5PnisuMeM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Schedule 1 (Form 1040), Additional Income and Adjustments to Income</a>.</li>
 </ul>More InformationSee&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.TrP-blq5a2Vt3kfVPW4mlDhFlKHHi1azDXJCRKvS5Z0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for more information on how to report an incorrect Form 1099-K.See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.nIYdvCcNQbeNS2PFoHvck5Sgle4JXyxH3QTDgj032n0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Understanding Your Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.m1EKHm7QpmPHvcyRTffZFGPbl73S1PcHmn5Y_vIFo60/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>&nbsp;for more information.

What taxpayers should do if they received a Form 1099-K in 2024

KANSAS CITY —On Feb. 27, the Missouri State Highway Patrol issued an Amber Alert&nbsp;in Kansas City for a missing 1-year-old Noah Johnson from Houston, Texas.

The boy was last seen with 38-year-old Kamilah Johnson&nbsp;at a Walmart on West 133rd Street in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 26, 2024, at 9:45p.m. They were traveling in a white 2007 GMC Yukon with a Texas license plate of STM7097.

The boy was wearing a navy shirt and pants with a flower pattern. Authorities say the child has a serious health issue.

The state of Texas filed paperwork to remove the boy from his mother Kamilah Johnson's custody, according to the MSHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709119186524.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —On Feb. 27, the Missouri State Highway Patrol issued an Amber Alert&nbsp;in Kansas City for a missing 1-year-old Noah Johnson from Houston, Texas.The boy was last seen with 38-year-old Kamilah Johnson&nbsp;at a Walmart on West 133rd Street in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 26, 2024, at 9:45p.m. They were traveling in a white 2007 GMC Yukon with a Texas license plate of STM7097.The boy was wearing a navy shirt and pants with a flower pattern. Authorities say the child has a serious health issue.The state of Texas filed paperwork to remove the boy from his mother Kamilah Johnson's custody, according to the MSHP.

Amber Alert: Suspect last seen in Kansas City is still at large

TOPEKA – In an effort to reduce traffic fatalities, the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero Coalition will host the first Drive To Zero Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Feb. 29, on the second floor of the Kansas Statehouse.

A news conference with state leaders will take place at 9:30 a.m. Crash data dashboard demonstrations, information booths from the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office and other activities will be available during the three-hour event.

“DTZ Day at the Capitol acknowledges a shared responsibility and commitment to reaching zero lives lost in traffic crashes,” said Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed, who is also Chair of the Drive To Zero Coalition. “Preliminary data shows 2023 was the first time since 2015 where Kansas has been under 400 traffic fatalities. While we are trending in the right direction, we still have work to do.”

At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how communities, law enforcement, businesses and first responders are working together on strategic initiatives to save lives on Kansas roads. Elected officials and transportation safety stakeholders will be on hand to talk with the public.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lmdvdi90cmFuc3BvcnRhdGlvbnNhZmV0eS5hc3A_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyNi45MDgxMzI5MSJ9.uAT9ylbzoa8EFivjwohXfj2HqgZN3LbpKuGbHk7Sv_A/s/1410649012/br/237729932289-l">https://www.ksdot.gov/transportationsafety.asp</a>&nbsp;to learn more about transportation safety initiatives under the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Strategic Highway Safety Plan.

TOPEKA – In an effort to reduce traffic fatalities, the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero Coalition will host the first Drive To Zero Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Feb. 29, on the second floor of the Kansas Statehouse.A news conference with state leaders will take place at 9:30 a.m. Crash data dashboard demonstrations, information booths from the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office and other activities will be available during the three-hour event.“DTZ Day at the Capitol acknowledges a shared responsibility and commitment to reaching zero lives lost in traffic crashes,” said Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed, who is also Chair of the Drive To Zero Coalition. “Preliminary data shows 2023 was the first time since 2015 where Kansas has been under 400 traffic fatalities. While we are trending in the right direction, we still have work to do.”At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how communities, law enforcement, businesses and first responders are working together on strategic initiatives to save lives on Kansas roads. Elected officials and transportation safety stakeholders will be on hand to talk with the public.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lmdvdi90cmFuc3BvcnRhdGlvbnNhZmV0eS5hc3A_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyNi45MDgxMzI5MSJ9.uAT9ylbzoa8EFivjwohXfj2HqgZN3LbpKuGbHk7Sv_A/s/1410649012/br/237729932289-l">https://www.ksdot.gov/transportationsafety.asp</a>&nbsp;to learn more about transportation safety initiatives under the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Strategic Highway Safety Plan.

Drive To Zero Day at Capitol set for today

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The moon’s newest arrival was said to be “alive and well” a day after making the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-private-company-intuitive-machines-9c896bfca61582773d381f4045fd35d7">first U.S. landing</a>&nbsp;in half a century, but flight controllers were still trying to get a better handle on its bearings.

Intuitive Machines reported Friday that it’s communicating with its lander, Odysseus, and sending commands to acquire science data. But it noted: “We continue to learn more about the vehicle’s specific information” regarding location, overall health and positioning.

(click below to watch a replay of the landing)

The Houston company was shooting for the south polar region, near the Malapert A crater, closer to the pole than anyone else so NASA could scout out the area before astronauts show up later this decade.

With Thursday’s touchdown, Intuitive Machines became the first private business to pull off a moon landing, a feat previously achieved by only five countries. The mission was sponsored in large part by NASA, whose experiments were on board. NASA paid $118 million for the delivery under a program meant to jump-start the lunar economy.

One of the NASA experiments was pressed into service when the lander's navigation system failed in the final few hours before touchdown. The lander took an extra lap around the moon to allow time for the last-minute switch to NASA's laser system.

“Odie is a scrapper,” mission director Tim Crain said late Thursday via X, formerly Twitter.

Another experiment didn't go so well. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's EagleCam — a set of six cameras — was supposed to eject 30 seconds before touchdown so it could capture pictures from afar of Odysseus' touchdown. EagleCam landed, instead, still attached to the lander.

The original plan had to be modified during the last orbit due to “unexpected events,” a university spokeswoman explained.

Intuitive Machines was the second company to aim for the moon under NASA's commercial lunar services program. Last month, Pittsburgh's Astrobotic Technology gave it a shot, but a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-spacecraft-reenter-burned-e7abeeac01711633eaa807b050704084">fuel leak on the lander</a>&nbsp;cut the mission short and the craft ended up crashing back to Earth.

Until Thursday, the U.S. had not landed on the moon since Apollo 17's Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt closed out NASA's famed moon-landing program in December 1972. NASA's new effort to return astronauts to the moon is named Artemis after Apollo's mythological twin sister. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nasa-moon-landings-artemis-delay-23e425d490c0c9e65ae774ec2e00f090">first Artemis crew landing</a>&nbsp;is planned for 2026 at the earliest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708707904055.png" alt="Image from a simulation video provided by Intuitive Machines&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Image from a simulation video provided by Intuitive Machines&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The moon’s newest arrival was said to be “alive and well” a day after making the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-private-company-intuitive-machines-9c896bfca61582773d381f4045fd35d7">first U.S. landing</a>&nbsp;in half a century, but flight controllers were still trying to get a better handle on its bearings.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lunar Surface Day One Update (23FEB2024 0818 CST) Odysseus is alive and well. Flight controllers are communicating and commanding the vehicle to download science data. The lander has good telemetry and solar charging. We continue to learn more about the vehicle’s specific…&mdash; Intuitive Machines (@Int_Machines) <a href="https://twitter.com/Int_Machines/status/1761032731729739804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Intuitive Machines reported Friday that it’s communicating with its lander, Odysseus, and sending commands to acquire science data. But it noted: “We continue to learn more about the vehicle’s specific information” regarding location, overall health and positioning.(click below to watch a replay of the landing)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dg2ffigGcYM?si=faNrnj88EqV5Ek9W" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Houston company was shooting for the south polar region, near the Malapert A crater, closer to the pole than anyone else so NASA could scout out the area before astronauts show up later this decade.With Thursday’s touchdown, Intuitive Machines became the first private business to pull off a moon landing, a feat previously achieved by only five countries. The mission was sponsored in large part by NASA, whose experiments were on board. NASA paid $118 million for the delivery under a program meant to jump-start the lunar economy.One of the NASA experiments was pressed into service when the lander's navigation system failed in the final few hours before touchdown. The lander took an extra lap around the moon to allow time for the last-minute switch to NASA's laser system.“Odie is a scrapper,” mission director Tim Crain said late Thursday via X, formerly Twitter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708646787215.png" alt="-Members of the Intuitive Machines team celebrate the success Thursday evening" />
 <figcaption>-Members of the Intuitive Machines team celebrate the success Thursday evening</figcaption>
 </figure>Another experiment didn't go so well. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's EagleCam — a set of six cameras — was supposed to eject 30 seconds before touchdown so it could capture pictures from afar of Odysseus' touchdown. EagleCam landed, instead, still attached to the lander.The original plan had to be modified during the last orbit due to “unexpected events,” a university spokeswoman explained.Intuitive Machines was the second company to aim for the moon under NASA's commercial lunar services program. Last month, Pittsburgh's Astrobotic Technology gave it a shot, but a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-spacecraft-reenter-burned-e7abeeac01711633eaa807b050704084">fuel leak on the lander</a>&nbsp;cut the mission short and the craft ended up crashing back to Earth.Until Thursday, the U.S. had not landed on the moon since Apollo 17's Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt closed out NASA's famed moon-landing program in December 1972. NASA's new effort to return astronauts to the moon is named Artemis after Apollo's mythological twin sister. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nasa-moon-landings-artemis-delay-23e425d490c0c9e65ae774ec2e00f090">first Artemis crew landing</a>&nbsp;is planned for 2026 at the earliest.

Lander 'alive and well' after first US moon landing in a half century

WASHINGTON — During the busiest time of the tax filing season, the Internal Revenue Service kicked off its 2024 Tax Time Guide series to help remind taxpayers of key items they’ll need to file a 2023 tax return.

As part of its four-part, weekly&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.b1LDYgGvuX8lcwmLX2xdqqlap7rkO9SCdeWZvTLpkiY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Tax Time Guide</a>&nbsp;series, the IRS continues to provide new and updated resources to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Taxpayers can count on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.KFzQKy1EgSo9H5i12cSSA006_ojDQ_aa6lrL7EhjYQk/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">IRS.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90YXgtbGF3LXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.vBeKcHCvWbKqmcvRjbH9EcEB9c1bEwgx2_868pnuQrA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">resources</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90b29scyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.p1ToYwuK4zLtpBdjkOmj19BBCZ3rox2JTNcSLLgK9cE/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">tools</a>&nbsp;along with a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0._FojOXVu9VaViwIi2pIS8TuXe-ydJFFnqMoMIXHSfIc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">special free help</a>&nbsp;page available around the clock. Taxpayers are also encouraged to read&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.UDO9JpNiTB8IBAcXD3wXkiUIiyz2yBw9BpEevNcnbTs/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>&nbsp;for additional guidance.

Essentials to filing an accurate tax returnThe deadline this tax season for filing&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.T4TWt2LRHEEtjUGvJt32n6w5q6MI3CUlQ90IviMFhmQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDAtc3IiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.79x6rK2O3e-w3qMUl0ZN9HE_S47gf5abI1osefTfovA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">1040-SR, U.S. Tax Return for Seniors</a>, is April 15, 2024. However, those who live in Maine or Massachusetts will have until April 17, 2024, to file due to official holidays observed in those states.

Taxpayers are advised to wait until they receive all their proper&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvc3RlcHMtdG8tdGFrZS1ub3ctdG8tZ2V0LWEtanVtcC1vbi1uZXh0LXllYXJzLXRheGVzI2NvbGxhcHNlQ29sbGFwc2libGUxNjc1OTQ2MTg0OTI5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.YUWAYpgf9J2QDlcKEgHDX6OyVpW9JtNKp2jYNht-4-g/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">tax documents</a>&nbsp;before filing their tax returns. Filing without all the necessary documents could lead to mistakes and potential delays.

It’s important for taxpayers to carefully review their documents for any inaccuracies or missing information. If any issues are found, taxpayers should&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4dG9waWNzL3RjMTU0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.WRWGkk_z4bMyXSnwwTwt_NIJTzjlcfvV9qVxX8iYAvY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">contact the payer</a>&nbsp;immediately to request a correction or confirm that the payer has their current mailing or email address on file.

Creating an IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMveW91ci1vbmxpbmUtYWNjb3VudCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.PetYUZcQxDRxVud0-96P9RvmaYfouaIyKVdt_G7KvdY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Online Account</a>&nbsp;can provide taxpayers with secure access to information about their federal tax account, including payment history, tax records and other important information.

Having organized tax records can make the process of preparing a complete and accurate tax return easier and may also help taxpayers identify any overlooked&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.5zioWr88MFYSYy6XBogFVjOgvmaJqEePCnVIisKz8fA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">deductions or credits</a>.

Taxpayers who have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvaW5kaXZpZHVhbC10YXhwYXllci1pZGVudGlmaWNhdGlvbi1udW1iZXIiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.eaCLwkgaL0HvvneU_Or0G47GVWp66dMVirzfpqE9NbY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">ITIN</a>&nbsp;may need to renew it if it has expired and is required for a U.S. federal tax return. If an expiring or expired ITIN is not renewed, the IRS can still accept the tax return, but it may result in processing delays or delays in credits owed.

Changes to credits and deductions for tax year 2023Standard deduction amount increased.&nbsp;For 2023, the standard deduction amount has been increased for all filers. The amounts are:

— Single or married filing separately — $13,850.

— Married filing jointly or qualifying surviving spouse — $27,700.

Additional child tax credit amount increased.&nbsp;The maximum additional child tax credit amount has increased to $1,600 for each qualifying child.

Child tax credit enhancements.&nbsp;Many changes to the Child tax credit (CTC) that had been implemented by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 have expired.

However, the IRS continues to closely monitor legislation being considered by Congress affecting the Child Tax Credit. The IRS reminds taxpayers eligible for the Child Tax Credit that they should not wait to file their 2023 tax return this filing season. If Congress changes the CTC guidelines, the IRS will automatically make adjustments for those who have already filed so no additional action will be needed by those eligible taxpayers.

Under current law, for tax year 2023, the following currently apply:

— The enhanced credit allowed for qualifying children under age 6 and children under age 18 has expired. For 2023, the initial amount of the CTC is $2,000 for each qualifying child. The credit amount begins to phase out where AGI income exceeds $200,000 ($400,000 in the case of a joint return). The amount of the CTC that can be claimed as a refundable credit is limited as it was in 2020 except that the maximum ACTC amount for each qualifying child increased to $1,500.

— The increased age allowance for a qualifying child has expired. A child must be under age 17 at the end of 2023 to be a qualifying child.

Changes to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).&nbsp;The enhancements for taxpayers without a qualifying child implemented by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 will not apply for tax year 2023. To claim the EITC without a qualifying child in 2023, taxpayers must be at least age 25 but under age 65 at the end of 2023. If a taxpayer is married filing a joint return, one spouse must be at least age 25 but under age 65 at the end of 2023.

Taxpayers may find more information on Child tax credits in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1zY2hlZHVsZS04ODEyLWZvcm0tMTA0MCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.8UWCwWxaxApQscWJMXNd-J3vumiYZ1thloEM_KZ9rEU/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Instructions for Schedule 8812 (Form 1040)</a>.

New Clean Vehicle Credit.&nbsp;The credit for new qualified plug-in electric drive motor vehicles has changed. This credit is now known as the Clean Vehicle Credit. The maximum amount of the credit and some of the requirements to claim the credit have changed. The credit is reported on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTg5MzYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.FbjqwLhmhQjaDI9MuhGmynDP_9iYfOsPnWZPSA_xnPY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 8936, Qualified Plug-In Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit</a>, and on Form 1040, Schedule 3.

More information on these and other credit and deduction changes for tax year 2023 may be found in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.tDUht4N4eVo7l9Xn_2nyyDJi-MyA0HzJ_g4Df6bF6KI/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>, taxpayer guide.

1099-K reporting requirements have not changed for tax year 2023Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS recently released&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.34fC7PrGRgb39H94ewkjvQSApkBWJVdIOC5BxmlFUqc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Notice 2023-74</a>&nbsp;announcing a delay of the new $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.fPKRVg3MyYSPki0D-wrhBCNjUTEAydrCIZfn1HaK9FM/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third-Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds will remain in place for 2023.

The IRS has published a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy0yMDIzLWZvcm0tMTA5OS1rLXJlcG9ydGluZy10aHJlc2hvbGQtZGVsYXktZm9yLXRoaXJkLXBhcnR5LXBsYXRmb3JtLXBheW1lbnRzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLTUwMDAtdGhyZXNob2xkLWluLTIwMjQtdG8tcGhhc2UtaW4taW1wbGVtZW50YXRpb24iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.M1AkMWhz6dvsa6wXbxUGt61UxdPozd3GiyFnzl-xsOQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Fact Sheet</a>&nbsp;with further information to assist taxpayers concerning changes to 1099-K reporting requirements for tax year 2023.

Form 1099-K reporting requirementsTaxpayers who take direct payment by credit, debit or gift cards for selling goods or providing services by customers or clients should get a Form 1099-K from their payment processor or payment settlement entity no matter how many payments they got or how much they were for.

If they used a payment app or online marketplace and received over $20,000 from over 200 transactions, the payment app or online marketplace is required to send a Form 1099-K. However, they can send a Form 1099-K with lower amounts. Whether or not the taxpayer receives a Form 1099-K, they must still report any income on their tax return.

What’s taxable?&nbsp;It’s the profit from these activities that’s taxable income. The Form 1099-K shows the gross or total amount of payments received. Taxpayers can use it and other records to figure out the actual taxes they owe on any profits. Remember that all income, no matter the amount, is taxable unless the tax law says it isn’t – even if taxpayers don’t get a Form 1099-K.

What’s not taxable?&nbsp;Taxpayers shouldn’t receive a Form 1099-K for personal payments, including money received as a gift and for repayment of shared expenses. That money isn’t taxable. To prevent getting an inaccurate Form 1099-K, note those payments as “personal,” if possible.

Good recordkeeping is key.&nbsp;Be sure to keep good records because it helps when it’s time to file a tax return. It’s a good idea to keep business and personal transactions separate to make it easier to figure out what a taxpayer owes.

For details on what to do if a taxpayer gets a Form 1099-K in error or the information on their form is incorrect, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.3uAPKV3BB40sZW1CYG8E8UzqTTHmDGTNjap9_fxlS8k/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">irs.gov/1099K</a>&nbsp;or find frequently asked questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.rwI1eV_0dw7lpSdnHdLe1Fz3s0WSgwcKP5YpTCaR3PY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>.

Direct File pilot program provides a new option this year for someThe IRS launched the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2RpcmVjdC1maWxlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.hoOBd1Wdgf8615iSfPgJ-gJNLUCn7tFaJeqWh3ipBzU/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Direct File pilot program</a>&nbsp;during the 2024 tax season. The pilot will give eligible taxpayers an option to prepare and electronically file their 2023 tax returns, for free, directly with the IRS.

The Direct File pilot program will be offered to eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states who have relatively simple tax returns reporting only certain types of income and claiming limited credits and deductions. The 12 states currently participating in the Direct File pilot program are Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington state and Wyoming. Taxpayers can check their eligibility at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.Av7upADxQtkw2-kiyC6_Avzl2UlJtrwt32R5z_kA4yc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">directfile.irs.gov</a>.

The Direct File pilot is currently in the internal testing phase and will be more widely available in mid-March. Taxpayers can get the latest news about the pilot at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2RpcmVjdC1maWxlLXBpbG90LW5ld3MiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.AIAUmujz-fbi580aFRwbvyqYux3FTyvETMBg_v8Hc1g/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Direct File pilot news</a>&nbsp;and sign up to be notified when Direct File is open to new users.

Finally, for comprehensive information on all these and other changes for tax year 2023, taxpayers and tax professionals are encouraged to read the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.byxcRjUwJdJo0SPp3WVFJDhDi3adhjJCpNp3Hhfx9Fw/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>, taxpayer guide, as well as visit other topics of taxpayer interest on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.v0n7hkxgGFDDdDCiLB4HeiYb358dwK42j5b1doV89GQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">IRS.gov</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869881583.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Internal Revenue ServiceWASHINGTON — During the busiest time of the tax filing season, the Internal Revenue Service kicked off its 2024 Tax Time Guide series to help remind taxpayers of key items they’ll need to file a 2023 tax return.As part of its four-part, weekly&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.b1LDYgGvuX8lcwmLX2xdqqlap7rkO9SCdeWZvTLpkiY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Tax Time Guide</a>&nbsp;series, the IRS continues to provide new and updated resources to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Taxpayers can count on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.KFzQKy1EgSo9H5i12cSSA006_ojDQ_aa6lrL7EhjYQk/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">IRS.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90YXgtbGF3LXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.vBeKcHCvWbKqmcvRjbH9EcEB9c1bEwgx2_868pnuQrA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">resources</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90b29scyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.p1ToYwuK4zLtpBdjkOmj19BBCZ3rox2JTNcSLLgK9cE/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">tools</a>&nbsp;along with a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0._FojOXVu9VaViwIi2pIS8TuXe-ydJFFnqMoMIXHSfIc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">special free help</a>&nbsp;page available around the clock. Taxpayers are also encouraged to read&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.UDO9JpNiTB8IBAcXD3wXkiUIiyz2yBw9BpEevNcnbTs/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>&nbsp;for additional guidance.Essentials to filing an accurate tax returnThe deadline this tax season for filing&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.T4TWt2LRHEEtjUGvJt32n6w5q6MI3CUlQ90IviMFhmQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDAtc3IiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.79x6rK2O3e-w3qMUl0ZN9HE_S47gf5abI1osefTfovA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">1040-SR, U.S. Tax Return for Seniors</a>, is April 15, 2024. However, those who live in Maine or Massachusetts will have until April 17, 2024, to file due to official holidays observed in those states.Taxpayers are advised to wait until they receive all their proper&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvc3RlcHMtdG8tdGFrZS1ub3ctdG8tZ2V0LWEtanVtcC1vbi1uZXh0LXllYXJzLXRheGVzI2NvbGxhcHNlQ29sbGFwc2libGUxNjc1OTQ2MTg0OTI5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.YUWAYpgf9J2QDlcKEgHDX6OyVpW9JtNKp2jYNht-4-g/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">tax documents</a>&nbsp;before filing their tax returns. Filing without all the necessary documents could lead to mistakes and potential delays.It’s important for taxpayers to carefully review their documents for any inaccuracies or missing information. If any issues are found, taxpayers should&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4dG9waWNzL3RjMTU0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.WRWGkk_z4bMyXSnwwTwt_NIJTzjlcfvV9qVxX8iYAvY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">contact the payer</a>&nbsp;immediately to request a correction or confirm that the payer has their current mailing or email address on file.Creating an IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMveW91ci1vbmxpbmUtYWNjb3VudCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.PetYUZcQxDRxVud0-96P9RvmaYfouaIyKVdt_G7KvdY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Online Account</a>&nbsp;can provide taxpayers with secure access to information about their federal tax account, including payment history, tax records and other important information.Having organized tax records can make the process of preparing a complete and accurate tax return easier and may also help taxpayers identify any overlooked&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvY3JlZGl0cyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.5zioWr88MFYSYy6XBogFVjOgvmaJqEePCnVIisKz8fA/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">deductions or credits</a>.Taxpayers who have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMvaW5kaXZpZHVhbC10YXhwYXllci1pZGVudGlmaWNhdGlvbi1udW1iZXIiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.eaCLwkgaL0HvvneU_Or0G47GVWp66dMVirzfpqE9NbY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">ITIN</a>&nbsp;may need to renew it if it has expired and is required for a U.S. federal tax return. If an expiring or expired ITIN is not renewed, the IRS can still accept the tax return, but it may result in processing delays or delays in credits owed.Changes to credits and deductions for tax year 2023Standard deduction amount increased.&nbsp;For 2023, the standard deduction amount has been increased for all filers. The amounts are:— Single or married filing separately — $13,850.— Head of household — $20,800.— Married filing jointly or qualifying surviving spouse — $27,700.Additional child tax credit amount increased.&nbsp;The maximum additional child tax credit amount has increased to $1,600 for each qualifying child.Child tax credit enhancements.&nbsp;Many changes to the Child tax credit (CTC) that had been implemented by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 have expired.However, the IRS continues to closely monitor legislation being considered by Congress affecting the Child Tax Credit. The IRS reminds taxpayers eligible for the Child Tax Credit that they should not wait to file their 2023 tax return this filing season. If Congress changes the CTC guidelines, the IRS will automatically make adjustments for those who have already filed so no additional action will be needed by those eligible taxpayers.Under current law, for tax year 2023, the following currently apply:— The enhanced credit allowed for qualifying children under age 6 and children under age 18 has expired. For 2023, the initial amount of the CTC is $2,000 for each qualifying child. The credit amount begins to phase out where AGI income exceeds $200,000 ($400,000 in the case of a joint return). The amount of the CTC that can be claimed as a refundable credit is limited as it was in 2020 except that the maximum ACTC amount for each qualifying child increased to $1,500.— The increased age allowance for a qualifying child has expired. A child must be under age 17 at the end of 2023 to be a qualifying child.Changes to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).&nbsp;The enhancements for taxpayers without a qualifying child implemented by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 will not apply for tax year 2023. To claim the EITC without a qualifying child in 2023, taxpayers must be at least age 25 but under age 65 at the end of 2023. If a taxpayer is married filing a joint return, one spouse must be at least age 25 but under age 65 at the end of 2023.Taxpayers may find more information on Child tax credits in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1zY2hlZHVsZS04ODEyLWZvcm0tMTA0MCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.8UWCwWxaxApQscWJMXNd-J3vumiYZ1thloEM_KZ9rEU/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Instructions for Schedule 8812 (Form 1040)</a>.New Clean Vehicle Credit.&nbsp;The credit for new qualified plug-in electric drive motor vehicles has changed. This credit is now known as the Clean Vehicle Credit. The maximum amount of the credit and some of the requirements to claim the credit have changed. The credit is reported on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTg5MzYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.FbjqwLhmhQjaDI9MuhGmynDP_9iYfOsPnWZPSA_xnPY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 8936, Qualified Plug-In Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit</a>, and on Form 1040, Schedule 3.More information on these and other credit and deduction changes for tax year 2023 may be found in the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.tDUht4N4eVo7l9Xn_2nyyDJi-MyA0HzJ_g4Df6bF6KI/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>, taxpayer guide.1099-K reporting requirements have not changed for tax year 2023Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS recently released&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.34fC7PrGRgb39H94ewkjvQSApkBWJVdIOC5BxmlFUqc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Notice 2023-74</a>&nbsp;announcing a delay of the new $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.fPKRVg3MyYSPki0D-wrhBCNjUTEAydrCIZfn1HaK9FM/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third-Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds will remain in place for 2023.The IRS has published a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy0yMDIzLWZvcm0tMTA5OS1rLXJlcG9ydGluZy10aHJlc2hvbGQtZGVsYXktZm9yLXRoaXJkLXBhcnR5LXBsYXRmb3JtLXBheW1lbnRzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLTUwMDAtdGhyZXNob2xkLWluLTIwMjQtdG8tcGhhc2UtaW4taW1wbGVtZW50YXRpb24iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.M1AkMWhz6dvsa6wXbxUGt61UxdPozd3GiyFnzl-xsOQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Fact Sheet</a>&nbsp;with further information to assist taxpayers concerning changes to 1099-K reporting requirements for tax year 2023.Form 1099-K reporting requirementsTaxpayers who take direct payment by credit, debit or gift cards for selling goods or providing services by customers or clients should get a Form 1099-K from their payment processor or payment settlement entity no matter how many payments they got or how much they were for.If they used a payment app or online marketplace and received over $20,000 from over 200 transactions, the payment app or online marketplace is required to send a Form 1099-K. However, they can send a Form 1099-K with lower amounts. Whether or not the taxpayer receives a Form 1099-K, they must still report any income on their tax return.What’s taxable?&nbsp;It’s the profit from these activities that’s taxable income. The Form 1099-K shows the gross or total amount of payments received. Taxpayers can use it and other records to figure out the actual taxes they owe on any profits. Remember that all income, no matter the amount, is taxable unless the tax law says it isn’t – even if taxpayers don’t get a Form 1099-K.What’s not taxable?&nbsp;Taxpayers shouldn’t receive a Form 1099-K for personal payments, including money received as a gift and for repayment of shared expenses. That money isn’t taxable. To prevent getting an inaccurate Form 1099-K, note those payments as “personal,” if possible.Good recordkeeping is key.&nbsp;Be sure to keep good records because it helps when it’s time to file a tax return. It’s a good idea to keep business and personal transactions separate to make it easier to figure out what a taxpayer owes.For details on what to do if a taxpayer gets a Form 1099-K in error or the information on their form is incorrect, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.3uAPKV3BB40sZW1CYG8E8UzqTTHmDGTNjap9_fxlS8k/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">irs.gov/1099K</a>&nbsp;or find frequently asked questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.rwI1eV_0dw7lpSdnHdLe1Fz3s0WSgwcKP5YpTCaR3PY/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>.Direct File pilot program provides a new option this year for someThe IRS launched the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2RpcmVjdC1maWxlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.hoOBd1Wdgf8615iSfPgJ-gJNLUCn7tFaJeqWh3ipBzU/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Direct File pilot program</a>&nbsp;during the 2024 tax season. The pilot will give eligible taxpayers an option to prepare and electronically file their 2023 tax returns, for free, directly with the IRS.The Direct File pilot program will be offered to eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states who have relatively simple tax returns reporting only certain types of income and claiming limited credits and deductions. The 12 states currently participating in the Direct File pilot program are Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington state and Wyoming. Taxpayers can check their eligibility at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.Av7upADxQtkw2-kiyC6_Avzl2UlJtrwt32R5z_kA4yc/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">directfile.irs.gov</a>.The Direct File pilot is currently in the internal testing phase and will be more widely available in mid-March. Taxpayers can get the latest news about the pilot at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2RpcmVjdC1maWxlLXBpbG90LW5ld3MiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjIxLjkwNTcwNTUxIn0.AIAUmujz-fbi580aFRwbvyqYux3FTyvETMBg_v8Hc1g/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Direct File pilot news</a>&nbsp;and sign up to be notified when Direct File is open to new users.Finally, for comprehensive information on all these and other changes for tax year 2023, taxpayers and tax professionals are encouraged to read the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1wdWJsaWNhdGlvbi0xNyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1NzA1NTEifQ.byxcRjUwJdJo0SPp3WVFJDhDi3adhjJCpNp3Hhfx9Fw/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>, taxpayer guide, as well as visit other topics of taxpayer interest on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU3MDU1MSJ9.v0n7hkxgGFDDdDCiLB4HeiYb358dwK42j5b1doV89GQ/s/1558083055/br/237464752169-l">IRS.gov</a>.

Tax Time Guide 2024: What to know before completing a tax return

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY — The Riley County Police Department reported just before 10a.m. Wednesday, that missing Anabelle Deacon has been located.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue an endangered persons advisory for a missing Manhattan girl, according to a media release from the KBI.

The whereabouts of 12-year-old Anabelle C. Deacon are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.

Anabelle lives in Manhattan, Kansas, and in rural Pottawatomie County. She was last seen walking east on Heather Lane in Manhattan on Wednesday morning around 6:50 a.m. She was last known wearing a St. Francis Xavier’s catholic school uniform, which is tan khaki pants, and a blue polo shirt. She may also be wearing a black hoodie.

Anabelle is described as a white female, approximately 5 foot 5 inches tall, and weighing around 110 pounds. She has brown curly hair, brown eyes, and wears glasses.

If you see Anabelle, call 911 immediately. If you have any other information about this case, please call the&nbsp;Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office at&nbsp;(785) 457-3353.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707925699200.png" alt="Anabelle C. Deacon courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Anabelle C. Deacon courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY — The Riley County Police Department reported just before 10a.m. Wednesday, that missing Anabelle Deacon has been located.---------POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue an endangered persons advisory for a missing Manhattan girl, according to a media release from the KBI.The whereabouts of 12-year-old Anabelle C. Deacon are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707925762367.png" alt="Anabelle C. Deacon courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Anabelle C. Deacon courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Anabelle lives in Manhattan, Kansas, and in rural Pottawatomie County. She was last seen walking east on Heather Lane in Manhattan on Wednesday morning around 6:50 a.m. She was last known wearing a St. Francis Xavier’s catholic school uniform, which is tan khaki pants, and a blue polo shirt. She may also be wearing a black hoodie.Anabelle is described as a white female, approximately 5 foot 5 inches tall, and weighing around 110 pounds. She has brown curly hair, brown eyes, and wears glasses.If you see Anabelle, call 911 immediately. If you have any other information about this case, please call the&nbsp;Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office at&nbsp;(785) 457-3353.

Police: Missing Manhattan girl found safe

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Several elected leaders in Oregon declared a state of emergency last week for downtown Portland over the public health and public safety crisis fueled by fentanyl.

This comes as&nbsp;Democratic lawmakers in Oregon last month unveiled a sweeping new bill that would undo a key part of the state’s first-in-the-nation drug decriminalization law, a recognition that public opinion has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drugs-decriminalization-pushback-bb209e6ba9835c69f95b093c8ee00279">soured on the measure</a>&nbsp;amid rampant public drug use during the fentanyl crisis.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler and Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson made the emergency declaration for a 90-day period during which collaboration and response will come from a command center downtown. The three governments are directing their agencies to work with first responders in connecting people addicted to the synthetic opioid with resources including drug treatment programs and to crack down on drug sales.

“Our country and our state have never seen a drug this deadly addictive, and all are grappling with how to respond,” Kotek said in a statement.

The declaration is a recommendation from a governor-established task force that met for several months last year to determine ways to rejuvenate downtown Portland.

People addicted to fentanyl who interact with first responders in Portland’s downtown in the next 90 days will be triaged by this new command center. Staff can connect people with various resources from a bed in a drug treatment center to meeting with a behavioral health clinician to help with registering for food stamps.

“We cannot underestimate the tremendous value of bringing leaders from different disciplines in a room on a daily basis who all account for a different part of the solution,” Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said in a statement.

Mike Myers, the director of Portland’s Community Safety Division, will head the city’s command team. Nathan Reynolds, deputy policy chief at the state’s Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, will be the state’s incident commander.

The effort also extends the Portland Police Bureau’s partnership with Oregon State Police to jointly patrol downtown streets for fentanyl sales. It additionally kicks off information campaigns centered on drug use prevention and recovery programs across the region. The county will expand outreach and training on how to administer Narcan, an overdose-reversal drug.

The program doesn’t establish any goals to measure success. Kotek said the next 90 days will provide a road map for the next steps.

The synthetic opioid addiction and overdose crisis that has gripped the U.S. for over two decades has left governments at the federal, state and local levels&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fentanyl-opioids-oregon-washington-legislature-2db8e01e0cdc26fb72f119fe99cdb73a" target="_blank">scrambling for solutions</a>.

At the state level, Oregon lawmakers have introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drug-decriminalization-law-3f851183d45e9c29609360b09e996d04" target="_blank">new bill</a>&nbsp;that would undo a key part of the state’s drug decriminalization law.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drugs-decriminalization-pushback-bb209e6ba9835c69f95b093c8ee00279" target="_blank">Public opinion has soured</a>&nbsp;on it as public drug use has become more visible because of growing homelessness.

And President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping announced last fall that China was telling its chemical companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-xi-fentanyl-agreement-mexico-china-opioids-1fa57facd0dbdac714b616d705952d92" target="_blank">restrict shipments to Latin America and elsewhere of the materials used to produce fentanyl</a>, which is largely finished in Mexico and then smuggled into the U.S.

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Several elected leaders in Oregon declared a state of emergency last week for downtown Portland over the public health and public safety crisis fueled by fentanyl.This comes as&nbsp;Democratic lawmakers in Oregon last month unveiled a sweeping new bill that would undo a key part of the state’s first-in-the-nation drug decriminalization law, a recognition that public opinion has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drugs-decriminalization-pushback-bb209e6ba9835c69f95b093c8ee00279">soured on the measure</a>&nbsp;amid rampant public drug use during the fentanyl crisis.Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler and Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson made the emergency declaration for a 90-day period during which collaboration and response will come from a command center downtown. The three governments are directing their agencies to work with first responders in connecting people addicted to the synthetic opioid with resources including drug treatment programs and to crack down on drug sales.“Our country and our state have never seen a drug this deadly addictive, and all are grappling with how to respond,” Kotek said in a statement.The declaration is a recommendation from a governor-established task force that met for several months last year to determine ways to rejuvenate downtown Portland.People addicted to fentanyl who interact with first responders in Portland’s downtown in the next 90 days will be triaged by this new command center. Staff can connect people with various resources from a bed in a drug treatment center to meeting with a behavioral health clinician to help with registering for food stamps.“We cannot underestimate the tremendous value of bringing leaders from different disciplines in a room on a daily basis who all account for a different part of the solution,” Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said in a statement.Mike Myers, the director of Portland’s Community Safety Division, will head the city’s command team. Nathan Reynolds, deputy policy chief at the state’s Office of Resilience and Emergency Management, will be the state’s incident commander.The effort also extends the Portland Police Bureau’s partnership with Oregon State Police to jointly patrol downtown streets for fentanyl sales. It additionally kicks off information campaigns centered on drug use prevention and recovery programs across the region. The county will expand outreach and training on how to administer Narcan, an overdose-reversal drug.The program doesn’t establish any goals to measure success. Kotek said the next 90 days will provide a road map for the next steps.The synthetic opioid addiction and overdose crisis that has gripped the U.S. for over two decades has left governments at the federal, state and local levels&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fentanyl-opioids-oregon-washington-legislature-2db8e01e0cdc26fb72f119fe99cdb73a" target="_blank">scrambling for solutions</a>.At the state level, Oregon lawmakers have introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drug-decriminalization-law-3f851183d45e9c29609360b09e996d04" target="_blank">new bill</a>&nbsp;that would undo a key part of the state’s drug decriminalization law.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oregon-drugs-decriminalization-pushback-bb209e6ba9835c69f95b093c8ee00279" target="_blank">Public opinion has soured</a>&nbsp;on it as public drug use has become more visible because of growing homelessness.And President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping announced last fall that China was telling its chemical companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-xi-fentanyl-agreement-mexico-china-opioids-1fa57facd0dbdac714b616d705952d92" target="_blank">restrict shipments to Latin America and elsewhere of the materials used to produce fentanyl</a>, which is largely finished in Mexico and then smuggled into the U.S.

State’s first-in-the-nation drug decriminalization law in jeopardy

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with the Kansas Radon Program, encourages Kansans to take action this January by learning about radon and how its risks can be lowered. &nbsp;

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking. 1 in 4 homes in Kansas test high for radon. It is a radioactive gas from the breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in the soil. Radon can’t be seen, heard or smelled, so the only way to know if a home has high levels of radon is to test. &nbsp;

The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure increases dramatically in people who smoke. People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke and are exposed to radon have a ten times greater risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure compared with people who do not smoke and are exposed to the same radon levels.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvNjQ3OC8yMDIxLUJ1cmRlbi1vZi1DYW5jZXItaW4tS2Fuc2FzLVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.A2zINenb5bua30BxLxENwXlkn0lyjh2KUxfbrsR1CzM/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">Cancer Burden Report of 2021</a>&nbsp;states, on average, each year, more than 1,900 lung cancers are diagnosed among Kansas residents, and more than 70% of them (about 1,350 cases) are diagnosed in late stage. In addition, about 1,500 Kansans die from the disease annually.

There are several ways to lower the risk of lung cancer. The best thing to prevent lung cancer is never to start smoking or to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. No matter how long an individual has used tobacco, quitting can reduce their risk for cancer and other chronic diseases. Homes can also be tested for high radon levels and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNkYy5nb3YvcmFkb24vcmFkb24tYWN0aW9uLmh0bWw_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDEyNC44OTA2MDE2MSJ9.H-UOq3_ILvdaw8zSIALBNGiK71IVa_pe0bQws4_ROsQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">fixed</a>&nbsp;if the radon levels are too high.

Learn more about what Kansas is doing to reduce the risk of cancer among Kansans by reading the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvMzAwNDkvS2Fuc2FzLUNhbmNlci1QcmV2ZW50aW9uLWFuZC1Db250cm9sLVBsYW4tMjAyMi0yMDI3LVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.9Ctfrqg1c2nUxhejwa-dUE9I7r7IFARTJ0-yYE2yHXA/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">2022-2027 Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan</a>.

Get a low-cost, short-term radon test kit at your local&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzcmUuay1zdGF0ZS5lZHUvYWJvdXQvZG9jcy9Db3VudHlEaXN0Q29udGFjdC5wZGYuJUMyJUEwJUMyJUEwP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAxMjQuODkwNjAxNjEifQ.wJsD8r-k8hRgJbIcwWR_PqewjnWo0ucsG7Njy-4SRkw/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">K-State Extension office</a>.

Learn more about the relationship between tobacco and radon&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2Fuc2FzcmFkb25wcm9ncmFtLm9yZy9zaXRlcy9rYW5zYXNyYWRvbnByb2dyYW0vZmlsZXMvVG9iYWNjb1JhZG9uJTIwR0VORVJJQyUyMGJyb2NodXJlLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.NU64K0qHg4rO2EfphJJoTeO6CPaWwkf12iFAyOp5OmQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">here.</a>

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with the Kansas Radon Program, encourages Kansans to take action this January by learning about radon and how its risks can be lowered. &nbsp;Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking. 1 in 4 homes in Kansas test high for radon. It is a radioactive gas from the breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in the soil. Radon can’t be seen, heard or smelled, so the only way to know if a home has high levels of radon is to test. &nbsp;The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure increases dramatically in people who smoke. People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke and are exposed to radon have a ten times greater risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure compared with people who do not smoke and are exposed to the same radon levels.The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvNjQ3OC8yMDIxLUJ1cmRlbi1vZi1DYW5jZXItaW4tS2Fuc2FzLVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.A2zINenb5bua30BxLxENwXlkn0lyjh2KUxfbrsR1CzM/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">Cancer Burden Report of 2021</a>&nbsp;states, on average, each year, more than 1,900 lung cancers are diagnosed among Kansas residents, and more than 70% of them (about 1,350 cases) are diagnosed in late stage. In addition, about 1,500 Kansans die from the disease annually.There are several ways to lower the risk of lung cancer. The best thing to prevent lung cancer is never to start smoking or to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. No matter how long an individual has used tobacco, quitting can reduce their risk for cancer and other chronic diseases. Homes can also be tested for high radon levels and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNkYy5nb3YvcmFkb24vcmFkb24tYWN0aW9uLmh0bWw_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDEyNC44OTA2MDE2MSJ9.H-UOq3_ILvdaw8zSIALBNGiK71IVa_pe0bQws4_ROsQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">fixed</a>&nbsp;if the radon levels are too high.Learn more about what Kansas is doing to reduce the risk of cancer among Kansans by reading the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvMzAwNDkvS2Fuc2FzLUNhbmNlci1QcmV2ZW50aW9uLWFuZC1Db250cm9sLVBsYW4tMjAyMi0yMDI3LVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.9Ctfrqg1c2nUxhejwa-dUE9I7r7IFARTJ0-yYE2yHXA/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">2022-2027 Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan</a>.Get a low-cost, short-term radon test kit at your local&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzcmUuay1zdGF0ZS5lZHUvYWJvdXQvZG9jcy9Db3VudHlEaXN0Q29udGFjdC5wZGYuJUMyJUEwJUMyJUEwP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAxMjQuODkwNjAxNjEifQ.wJsD8r-k8hRgJbIcwWR_PqewjnWo0ucsG7Njy-4SRkw/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">K-State Extension office</a>.Learn more about the relationship between tobacco and radon&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2Fuc2FzcmFkb25wcm9ncmFtLm9yZy9zaXRlcy9rYW5zYXNyYWRvbnByb2dyYW0vZmlsZXMvVG9iYWNjb1JhZG9uJTIwR0VORVJJQyUyMGJyb2NodXJlLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTI0Ljg5MDYwMTYxIn0.NU64K0qHg4rO2EfphJJoTeO6CPaWwkf12iFAyOp5OmQ/s/1305913623/br/235886443233-l">here.</a>

Get Ready for Kansas Radon Action Month in January 

A budget is a plan for how to spend and save your money. A monthly household budget can help you make sure you have enough money to pay for things you need like rent, groceries, and electricity. They can also help you think about how you spend your money on things you want like cable television or having a pet. Paying for all your household needs before you spend money on things you want is a wise financial habit. Knowing how to make a budget is an important first step toward managing your money.

Understanding the difference between wants and needs is a way to build a budget and make sure basic needs are taken care of such as food, clothing, and shelter before things that are upgrades or nice to have. Learning to save money is also a necessity because having an emergency fund helps to avoid a major crisis. It also allows you to save for specific purchases without having to use credit therefore, saving you money in interest. An emergency fund is usually around $500-$1,000 as a minimum. That is typically enough money to be able to cover an emergency. This can create peace of mind for the individual and also help relationships since there is no need to argue because you have the money to cover an emergency. While there is some stress related to emergencies there is less stress when there is money to cover it.

The first step I like to do when creating a budget is to track expenses for a month so you know where your money is going. If you don’t know where your money is going then it is difficult to sit down and put a number in each category. Some categories like rent stay the same but other categories, for example, groceries, can be surprising when we pay attention to what we are spending.

Sometimes we can also be taken off guard by how much we really spend on seemingly little things. We can make better choices when we know exactly how much we are spending on something. For example, stopping to get snacks or drinks at a convenience store, can add up quickly. A fountain drink can be around $2.00. If we stop five times a week that adds up to $10.00 a week. If we don’t know what we are spending then we can’t make an educated choice on how to spend our money. Some people might be willing to spend $10.00 a week on drinks and others may not be willing to spend that much. The choice is yours.

Having a budget is telling your money what to do. To some people budgeting feels restrictive but knowing where your money is going can also create a sense of freedom. You also need to know how much money is coming in. What are all your income sources? The more informed you are the better decisions you can make around anything and this includes personal finance.

Once you create a budget you can use an online system or the envelope system to keep track of your budget. There are a lot of online budgeting tools so you can electronically keep track of your spending. Or you can utilize an envelope system where you put cash in each envelope and each envelope represents a category. Examples of categories include rent, groceries, gas, utilities, savings, etc.

The goal is to tell each dollar where to go. If you have money left over after all the basics and bills then you can decide how to use those. Even if they go to savings or a miscellaneous category, tell each dollar where it will be spent. Likewise, if you run out of money before everything is paid, then you will need to find ways you can cut back or increase your income.

It takes some time to get used to doing a budget. You aren’t going to be perfect the first month if you’ve never done a budget before. It will take some time and trial and error to get your budget to work well for you. Keep practicing until you figure it out. Be patient and don’t give up!

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>A budget is a plan for how to spend and save your money. A monthly household budget can help you make sure you have enough money to pay for things you need like rent, groceries, and electricity. They can also help you think about how you spend your money on things you want like cable television or having a pet. Paying for all your household needs before you spend money on things you want is a wise financial habit. Knowing how to make a budget is an important first step toward managing your money.Understanding the difference between wants and needs is a way to build a budget and make sure basic needs are taken care of such as food, clothing, and shelter before things that are upgrades or nice to have. Learning to save money is also a necessity because having an emergency fund helps to avoid a major crisis. It also allows you to save for specific purchases without having to use credit therefore, saving you money in interest. An emergency fund is usually around $500-$1,000 as a minimum. That is typically enough money to be able to cover an emergency. This can create peace of mind for the individual and also help relationships since there is no need to argue because you have the money to cover an emergency. While there is some stress related to emergencies there is less stress when there is money to cover it.The first step I like to do when creating a budget is to track expenses for a month so you know where your money is going. If you don’t know where your money is going then it is difficult to sit down and put a number in each category. Some categories like rent stay the same but other categories, for example, groceries, can be surprising when we pay attention to what we are spending.Sometimes we can also be taken off guard by how much we really spend on seemingly little things. We can make better choices when we know exactly how much we are spending on something. For example, stopping to get snacks or drinks at a convenience store, can add up quickly. A fountain drink can be around $2.00. If we stop five times a week that adds up to $10.00 a week. If we don’t know what we are spending then we can’t make an educated choice on how to spend our money. Some people might be willing to spend $10.00 a week on drinks and others may not be willing to spend that much. The choice is yours.Having a budget is telling your money what to do. To some people budgeting feels restrictive but knowing where your money is going can also create a sense of freedom. You also need to know how much money is coming in. What are all your income sources? The more informed you are the better decisions you can make around anything and this includes personal finance.Once you create a budget you can use an online system or the envelope system to keep track of your budget. There are a lot of online budgeting tools so you can electronically keep track of your spending. Or you can utilize an envelope system where you put cash in each envelope and each envelope represents a category. Examples of categories include rent, groceries, gas, utilities, savings, etc.The goal is to tell each dollar where to go. If you have money left over after all the basics and bills then you can decide how to use those. Even if they go to savings or a miscellaneous category, tell each dollar where it will be spent. Likewise, if you run out of money before everything is paid, then you will need to find ways you can cut back or increase your income.It takes some time to get used to doing a budget. You aren’t going to be perfect the first month if you’ve never done a budget before. It will take some time and trial and error to get your budget to work well for you. Keep practicing until you figure it out. Be patient and don’t give up!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

KOERNER: Budgeting

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/chase-woodruff/">CHASE WOODRUFF</a>&nbsp;

The plaintiffs who persuaded a majority of the Colorado Supreme Court to block former President Donald Trump from the state’s 2024 ballot under a Civil War-era insurrection clause urged the U.S. Supreme Court to promptly weigh in on the case in a new filing.

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUVD3sX8LwthbWVYhf8fe1OUYtlLMzDkszA-2BIqPpCFEPX7YCUG8Pq20fh1jCrcK0FMwMtiiSlW6JQMCQvarwWIGrDTRdIv5xfY3DE22lyG5ulldSP6FWTLWffha68j6jtpKh07EnNePaihJKUh6axmVw-3DLy9n_Jm5goVoRUsnLGAkeCf3KzuTJy56ex9G-2FU4MIWWg7cd-2FpMzbu10h-2FsHfvAs75q7ILXjf9EAPVZZvvlv1-2BavrUdAOq0b3G4YMbFM7gQYgCqBxATSW-2BKI-2FBJx6DY7HiRke9uu7aTaCfc1Ls-2F2yYSGE09A02XoxCPVO-2BRclNnFm03K0lRoK9aAZH3Q52EzPA0IWYDO026F0p17dGTarUzclQsksrMr7lURpITe3jSiN-2FsToB-2BXDBnxxQicIL4z-2BZNsYmV2R97xTMCSRVum6USJ98SZoU0cTBffWDAugr7upRD5ypLKAma-2FH7WlPE5TfSbf-2B-2BPjKMrfT5elt3er00jfG-2FYMdKb7kWosvDKMYOA-2Bu-2BxBU-3D">33-page brief</a>&nbsp;from the attorneys representing six Colorado Republican and unaffiliated voters was filed with the nation’s highest court on Tuesday. It followed the Colorado Republican Party’s petition last week for a so-called writ of certiorari, a formal order the Supreme Court issues when it agrees to review a case.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs, who are backed by the nonprofit Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, wrote that with primary election deadlines looming, the court should take up the case on an “expedited timetable.”

“Although the Colorado Supreme Court’s decision was correct and implicates no split of authority, this Court should nevertheless grant certiorari,” the brief said. “This case is of utmost national importance. And given the upcoming presidential primary schedule, there is no time to wait for the issues to percolate further.”

A U.S. Supreme Court review has been widely expected in the wake of the Colorado Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://coloradonewsline.com/2023/12/19/colorado-supreme-court-trump-2024-ballot-ruling/">seismic Dec. 19 ruling</a>, which held that Trump’s actions in relation to the Jan. 6 insurrection disqualify him from office under the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Section 3 of the amendment prohibits a person who took an oath to support the Constitution and then “engaged in insurrection” from holding office again.

The court stayed its decision pending a likely U.S. Supreme Court appeal, meaning that Trump’s name will still appear on GOP primary ballots if the court agrees to review the case before the Jan. 5 ballot certification deadline, Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold has said.

Following the Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mainemorningstar.com/2023/12/28/secretary-of-state-finds-trump-ineligible-for-maines-primary-ballot/">Maine became the second state</a>&nbsp;to disqualify Trump from the ballot under Section 3 when Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows issued a ruling to that effect on Dec. 28.

The Colorado Republican Party appealed the Colorado case to the U.S. Supreme Court the same day, writing in a petition that “voters have been denied the ability to choose their Chief Executive through the electoral process.” A separate appeal from attorneys representing Trump is expected soon.

The plaintiffs’ Tuesday filing calls the Colorado lawsuit an “ideal vehicle” for the court to settle questions about Trump’s constitutional eligibility under Section 3.

“Today’s brief underscores that Section 3 applies to former presidents, that our clients had the right to bring this challenge under Colorado state law and that the First Amendment does not allow a state party to list disqualified candidates on the ballot,” CREW president Noah Bookbinder said in a statement. “It is crucial that the Supreme Court take up and review this case quickly so that Coloradans and the American public have complete clarity on Donald Trump’s eligibility before casting their ballots.”

The brief asks the court to grant review of the case by Friday and to issue a ruling by Feb. 11. The presidential primary election in Colorado will occur March 5.

<a target="_blank" href="https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/supreme-court-block-trump-colorado-ballot/">This story</a>&nbsp;was produced by Colorado Newsline, a States Newsroom affiliate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703030684419.png" alt="Following the Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mainemorningstar.com/2023/12/28/secretary-of-state-finds-trump-ineligible-for-maines-primary-ballot/">Maine became the second state</a>&nbsp;to disqualify Trump from the ballot under Section 3 when Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows issued a ruling to that effect on Dec. 28.-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Following the Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mainemorningstar.com/2023/12/28/secretary-of-state-finds-trump-ineligible-for-maines-primary-ballot/">Maine became the second state</a>&nbsp;to disqualify Trump from the ballot under Section 3 when Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows issued a ruling to that effect on Dec. 28.-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/chase-woodruff/">CHASE WOODRUFF</a>&nbsp;The plaintiffs who persuaded a majority of the Colorado Supreme Court to block former President Donald Trump from the state’s 2024 ballot under a Civil War-era insurrection clause urged the U.S. Supreme Court to promptly weigh in on the case in a new filing.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUVD3sX8LwthbWVYhf8fe1OUYtlLMzDkszA-2BIqPpCFEPX7YCUG8Pq20fh1jCrcK0FMwMtiiSlW6JQMCQvarwWIGrDTRdIv5xfY3DE22lyG5ulldSP6FWTLWffha68j6jtpKh07EnNePaihJKUh6axmVw-3DLy9n_Jm5goVoRUsnLGAkeCf3KzuTJy56ex9G-2FU4MIWWg7cd-2FpMzbu10h-2FsHfvAs75q7ILXjf9EAPVZZvvlv1-2BavrUdAOq0b3G4YMbFM7gQYgCqBxATSW-2BKI-2FBJx6DY7HiRke9uu7aTaCfc1Ls-2F2yYSGE09A02XoxCPVO-2BRclNnFm03K0lRoK9aAZH3Q52EzPA0IWYDO026F0p17dGTarUzclQsksrMr7lURpITe3jSiN-2FsToB-2BXDBnxxQicIL4z-2BZNsYmV2R97xTMCSRVum6USJ98SZoU0cTBffWDAugr7upRD5ypLKAma-2FH7WlPE5TfSbf-2B-2BPjKMrfT5elt3er00jfG-2FYMdKb7kWosvDKMYOA-2Bu-2BxBU-3D">33-page brief</a>&nbsp;from the attorneys representing six Colorado Republican and unaffiliated voters was filed with the nation’s highest court on Tuesday. It followed the Colorado Republican Party’s petition last week for a so-called writ of certiorari, a formal order the Supreme Court issues when it agrees to review a case.Attorneys for the plaintiffs, who are backed by the nonprofit Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, wrote that with primary election deadlines looming, the court should take up the case on an “expedited timetable.”“Although the Colorado Supreme Court’s decision was correct and implicates no split of authority, this Court should nevertheless grant certiorari,” the brief said. “This case is of utmost national importance. And given the upcoming presidential primary schedule, there is no time to wait for the issues to percolate further.”A U.S. Supreme Court review has been widely expected in the wake of the Colorado Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://coloradonewsline.com/2023/12/19/colorado-supreme-court-trump-2024-ballot-ruling/">seismic Dec. 19 ruling</a>, which held that Trump’s actions in relation to the Jan. 6 insurrection disqualify him from office under the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Section 3 of the amendment prohibits a person who took an oath to support the Constitution and then “engaged in insurrection” from holding office again.The court stayed its decision pending a likely U.S. Supreme Court appeal, meaning that Trump’s name will still appear on GOP primary ballots if the court agrees to review the case before the Jan. 5 ballot certification deadline, Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold has said.Following the Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mainemorningstar.com/2023/12/28/secretary-of-state-finds-trump-ineligible-for-maines-primary-ballot/">Maine became the second state</a>&nbsp;to disqualify Trump from the ballot under Section 3 when Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows issued a ruling to that effect on Dec. 28.The Colorado Republican Party appealed the Colorado case to the U.S. Supreme Court the same day, writing in a petition that “voters have been denied the ability to choose their Chief Executive through the electoral process.” A separate appeal from attorneys representing Trump is expected soon.The plaintiffs’ Tuesday filing calls the Colorado lawsuit an “ideal vehicle” for the court to settle questions about Trump’s constitutional eligibility under Section 3.“Today’s brief underscores that Section 3 applies to former presidents, that our clients had the right to bring this challenge under Colorado state law and that the First Amendment does not allow a state party to list disqualified candidates on the ballot,” CREW president Noah Bookbinder said in a statement. “It is crucial that the Supreme Court take up and review this case quickly so that Coloradans and the American public have complete clarity on Donald Trump’s eligibility before casting their ballots.”The brief asks the court to grant review of the case by Friday and to issue a ruling by Feb. 11. The presidential primary election in Colorado will occur March 5.<a target="_blank" href="https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/supreme-court-block-trump-colorado-ballot/">This story</a>&nbsp;was produced by Colorado Newsline, a States Newsroom affiliate.

U.S. Supreme Court reviews Trump ballot ban in Colorado

Scams can be hard to spot because they often look just like&nbsp;the real thing.&nbsp;That includes job scams. They crop up on real job sites, including places like LinkedIn. Scammers have even invited people to do things like 45-minute interviews, putting in the time so you let your guard down. So how do you tell a scam from the real thing?

Let’s say you get a message from a recruiter. They say you’re&nbsp;just&nbsp;what they’ve been looking for and schedule a virtual interview. The invitation has the company’s logo and an official-looking job briefing guide describing the job’s duties. Soon after the interview, you get the email: You got the job! The offer letter comes in — company logo and all — and everything seems promising. But what comes next?

Here are some signs that job offer may be a scam:

Not sure if you’re dealing with a job scam? Contact the company using a phone number or website you know to be legitimate — not one you got from the “recruiter.”

Report job scams to the FTC:&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

Federal Trade Commission<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702930819749.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scams can be hard to spot because they often look just like&nbsp;the real thing.&nbsp;That includes job scams. They crop up on real job sites, including places like LinkedIn. Scammers have even invited people to do things like 45-minute interviews, putting in the time so you let your guard down. So how do you tell a scam from the real thing?Let’s say you get a message from a recruiter. They say you’re&nbsp;just&nbsp;what they’ve been looking for and schedule a virtual interview. The invitation has the company’s logo and an official-looking job briefing guide describing the job’s duties. Soon after the interview, you get the email: You got the job! The offer letter comes in — company logo and all — and everything seems promising. But what comes next?Here are some signs that job offer may be a scam:<ul>
 <li>Scammy recruiters will email you from a personal email, not a company account.&nbsp;Recruiters will generally email from their company (@companyname.com), not a personal email like @gmail.com or @yahoo.com.</li><li>Scammy recruiters push you for money.&nbsp;They might send you a fake invoice for equipment (like a computer ) or “training” that they’ll supposedly order but tell you to pay for first — using mobile payment apps like Cash App, Zelle, or PayPal. They’ll promise to reimburse you…but won’t, because it’s a scam.</li><li>Scammy recruiters ask for your personal information up front.&nbsp;Before giving you any details about the job, they’ll ask for your driver’s license, Social Security, or bank account number to fill out “employment paperwork.” But if you share it, they might steal your identity.</li>
 </ul>Not sure if you’re dealing with a job scam? Contact the company using a phone number or website you know to be legitimate — not one you got from the “recruiter.”Report job scams to the FTC:&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: How to spot the latest job scams

WASHINGTON, D.C. — You may have heard us say when you’re shopping online, check things out before checkout. The same advice applies to giveaways on social media sites like Facebook and Instagram. 

Here’s why: One in four people who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight/2023/10/social-media-golden-goose-scammers">reported losing money to fraud since 2021</a>&nbsp;said it started on social media. Scammers make it hard to tell what’s real and what’s fake. Want to avoid scams on your feed? Slow your scroll and keep reading to find out how.

If you follow your favorite businesses on social media to get updates about upcoming events or promotions, you’re not the only one. Scammers are watching too — and they may hijack legit businesses’ giveaways and promotions to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams#recognize">try and get your personal and financial information</a>.

Imagine your favorite photographer is giving away a free photo session. You follow the steps to enter — liking their page, tagging a few friends, and sharing the post. Then someone who&nbsp;looks&nbsp;like the business owner tags you in a comment saying that you’ve won. They send you a link — and ask for financial information — to claim your prize. What’s your next step?&nbsp;[Hint: it rhymes with Jaws!]

Before you respond,&nbsp;pause. Don’t click on any links&nbsp;since they&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-avoid-malware">might contain malware</a>. Then:

• Ask yourself: Does this business need information like my credit card number to get this free prize? If it’s legit, probably not!&nbsp;

• Contact the business&nbsp;using a phone number, email, or website that you know is real. Ask if they really sent the message. If they didn’t, report the post and let them know that their account may have been hacked.&nbsp;

Learn more about how to spot, avoid, and report scams—and how to recover money if you’ve paid a scammer—at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/scams">ftc.gov/scams</a>. If you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700145879317.png" alt="Federal Trade Commission" />
 <figcaption>Federal Trade Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>By TERRI MILLER FTCWASHINGTON, D.C. — You may have heard us say when you’re shopping online, check things out before checkout. The same advice applies to giveaways on social media sites like Facebook and Instagram. Here’s why: One in four people who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight/2023/10/social-media-golden-goose-scammers">reported losing money to fraud since 2021</a>&nbsp;said it started on social media. Scammers make it hard to tell what’s real and what’s fake. Want to avoid scams on your feed? Slow your scroll and keep reading to find out how.If you follow your favorite businesses on social media to get updates about upcoming events or promotions, you’re not the only one. Scammers are watching too — and they may hijack legit businesses’ giveaways and promotions to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams#recognize">try and get your personal and financial information</a>. Imagine your favorite photographer is giving away a free photo session. You follow the steps to enter — liking their page, tagging a few friends, and sharing the post. Then someone who&nbsp;looks&nbsp;like the business owner tags you in a comment saying that you’ve won. They send you a link — and ask for financial information — to claim your prize. What’s your next step?&nbsp;[Hint: it rhymes with Jaws!]Before you respond,&nbsp;pause. Don’t click on any links&nbsp;since they&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-remove-avoid-malware">might contain malware</a>. Then:• Ask yourself: Does this business need information like my credit card number to get this free prize? If it’s legit, probably not!&nbsp;• Contact the business&nbsp;using a phone number, email, or website that you know is real. Ask if they really sent the message. If they didn’t, report the post and let them know that their account may have been hacked.&nbsp;Learn more about how to spot, avoid, and report scams—and how to recover money if you’ve paid a scammer—at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/scams">ftc.gov/scams</a>. If you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: Slow your scroll: Spot, avoid social media giveaway scams

KANSAS CITY — A SpaceX rocket launched from Kennedy Space Center on Nov. 9, 2023 with five major experiments, including one from the University of Kansas Medical Center. KU Medical Center’s investigation is conducted in tandem with NASA’s astronauts on the International Space Station, and it is part of a NASA grant examining the effects of spaceflight and microgravity on female reproductive health. The experiment builds on previous research with real-world implications.

Over the past several decades, KU Medical Center researcher Joseph Tash, Ph.D., conducted several experiments with NASA, examining various aspects of male fertility in space. In 2013, Tash and Lane Christenson, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and an expert in female reproductive physiology, wrote the research proposal with researchers from the NASA Ames Research Center.

“This project is a compilation of a lot of hard work by many individuals to ensure that the experiment being conducted is done so in the best possible manner,” Christenson said, noting that NASA researchers April Ronca, Ph.D., and Joshua Alwood Ph.D., were co-authors of the proposal.

The purpose of this study is to learn whether spaceflight, directly or indirectly, causes ovarian dysfunction that leads to infertility in an animal model using female mice. The next aim is to learn whether bone loss is associated with altered estrogen in bone tissue. The International Space Station, which resides in low-Earth orbit and is protected from elevated levels of radiation, is an effective environment for the study.

Disrupted ovarian function was observed in animal models on previous missions, so part of the work will be to determine the source of the disruption and whether it was perhaps microgravity or re-entry. Following the extended exposure to microgravity, follow-up experiments will be conducted to see if mouse fertility was affected.

Multiple control groups on the ground are used for comparison. “We duplicate the conditions in space (except weightlessness),” Christenson said. Upon return to Earth, mice will be observed and mated, and researchers will evaluate the number of offspring born, birth weights and litter sex ratios.

“The grant has expanded since the original application to include behavioral studies on the offspring of the space-flown mice with the inclusion of a new young investigator,&nbsp;Stephanie Puukila,&nbsp;Ph.D., at the NASA Ames Research Center in California,” Christenson said. These experiments will engage KU Medical Center facilities to determine if spaceflight affected the next generation.&nbsp;

As a NASA-funded study, the intent is for findings to be eventually applied to astronauts and perhaps even other travelers in space. While previous research suggests spaceflight affects fertility, this investigation is designed to improve basic understanding of female reproductive health in females and may provide foundational data on how gravity affects female reproductive function.

This launch carried supplies, equipment and research projects to the International Space Station. The crew of astronauts from the United States, Denmark and Japan will support Christenson’s research on the International Space Station, including Loral O’Hara, a NASA flight engineer and graduate of the aerospace program at KU. Other experiments on board include studies on atmospheric gravity waves formed by weather disturbances on Earth, laser communications, water filtration for recycling and recovery and the study of plant defense responses.

<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/missions/station/iss-research/nasas-spacex-crs-29-mission-flies-research-to-the-space-station/" target="_blank">NASA’s SpaceX CRS-29 Mission Flies Research to the Space Station</a>

<a href="https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/" target="_blank">Space Station blog</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700242598760.jpeg" alt="NASA’s SpaceX CRS-29 is carrying research from a KU Medical Center lab designed to help scientists learn more about how space travel might affect fertility. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>NASA’s SpaceX CRS-29 is carrying research from a KU Medical Center lab designed to help scientists learn more about how space travel might affect fertility. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceKANSAS CITY — A SpaceX rocket launched from Kennedy Space Center on Nov. 9, 2023 with five major experiments, including one from the University of Kansas Medical Center. KU Medical Center’s investigation is conducted in tandem with NASA’s astronauts on the International Space Station, and it is part of a NASA grant examining the effects of spaceflight and microgravity on female reproductive health. The experiment builds on previous research with real-world implications.Over the past several decades, KU Medical Center researcher Joseph Tash, Ph.D., conducted several experiments with NASA, examining various aspects of male fertility in space. In 2013, Tash and Lane Christenson, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Cell Biology and Physiology and an expert in female reproductive physiology, wrote the research proposal with researchers from the NASA Ames Research Center.“This project is a compilation of a lot of hard work by many individuals to ensure that the experiment being conducted is done so in the best possible manner,” Christenson said, noting that NASA researchers April Ronca, Ph.D., and Joshua Alwood Ph.D., were co-authors of the proposal.<h2>Spaceflight and ovarian dysfunction</h2>The purpose of this study is to learn whether spaceflight, directly or indirectly, causes ovarian dysfunction that leads to infertility in an animal model using female mice. The next aim is to learn whether bone loss is associated with altered estrogen in bone tissue. The International Space Station, which resides in low-Earth orbit and is protected from elevated levels of radiation, is an effective environment for the study.<figure>
 <img src="https://www.kumc.edu/images/news/news-christenson-lab.jpg" alt="Lane Christenson, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, is pictured in his lab with Payton Nies, A KU undergraduate student who worked on the project as part of the&nbsp;K-INBRE&nbsp;Summer Scholars program. KU photo" />
 <figcaption>Lane Christenson, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, is pictured in his lab with Payton Nies, A KU undergraduate student who worked on the project as part of the&nbsp;K-INBRE&nbsp;Summer Scholars program. KU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Disrupted ovarian function was observed in animal models on previous missions, so part of the work will be to determine the source of the disruption and whether it was perhaps microgravity or re-entry. Following the extended exposure to microgravity, follow-up experiments will be conducted to see if mouse fertility was affected.Multiple control groups on the ground are used for comparison. “We duplicate the conditions in space (except weightlessness),” Christenson said. Upon return to Earth, mice will be observed and mated, and researchers will evaluate the number of offspring born, birth weights and litter sex ratios.“The grant has expanded since the original application to include behavioral studies on the offspring of the space-flown mice with the inclusion of a new young investigator,&nbsp;Stephanie Puukila,&nbsp;Ph.D., at the NASA Ames Research Center in California,” Christenson said. These experiments will engage KU Medical Center facilities to determine if spaceflight affected the next generation.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://www.kumc.edu/images/news/news-NASA-mouse-patch.jpg" alt="In keeping with tradition, researchers created a mission patch commemorating the space flight.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>In keeping with tradition, researchers created a mission patch commemorating the space flight.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>As a NASA-funded study, the intent is for findings to be eventually applied to astronauts and perhaps even other travelers in space. While previous research suggests spaceflight affects fertility, this investigation is designed to improve basic understanding of female reproductive health in females and may provide foundational data on how gravity affects female reproductive function.This launch carried supplies, equipment and research projects to the International Space Station. The crew of astronauts from the United States, Denmark and Japan will support Christenson’s research on the International Space Station, including Loral O’Hara, a NASA flight engineer and graduate of the aerospace program at KU. Other experiments on board include studies on atmospheric gravity waves formed by weather disturbances on Earth, laser communications, water filtration for recycling and recovery and the study of plant defense responses.<h2>More information on this mission:</h2><a href="https://www.nasa.gov/missions/station/iss-research/nasas-spacex-crs-29-mission-flies-research-to-the-space-station/" target="_blank">NASA’s SpaceX CRS-29 Mission Flies Research to the Space Station</a><a href="https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/" target="_blank">Space Station blog</a>

NASA launch includes KU Medical Center research on female reproductive system

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that she has formed the Kansas Water Subcabinet to formalize cross-agency coordination, collaboration, and planning on the state’s water quantity and quality priorities. Creating the subcabinet provides an efficient and practical internal forum for experts across several agencies to discuss water-related data and policy and strengthen state government initiatives on emerging and long-term water issues.

“My administration has been laser-focused on finding and implementing sustainable solutions to address our state’s water concerns,” Kelly said. “This subcabinet ensures we are all pulling in the same direction in those efforts and building an all-of-government approach to water issues.”

The Kansas Water Subcabinet will be managed by the Governor’s Special Advisor on Water, and its permanent members will include representatives from the Kansas Water Office, the Kansas Department of Agriculture, the Kansas Department of Commerce, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

“Our state’s agricultural and rural economy is fueled by water, which is why our stakeholders often point to long-term water management as one of the state’s most critical challenges,”&nbsp;Kansas Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam said. “I’m looking forward to enhancing the collaboration among state officials with an active Water Subcabinet.”

The group's tasks could include developing cross-agency goals and strategies on Kansas’ long-term water quantity and quality issues, strengthening service delivery of the state’s water grants and programs, and responding to upcoming and short-term water-related issues while strategizing preventative measures. The subcabinet will also prioritize securing federal or private funding opportunities across agencies to leverage the state’s historic recent investments in the Kansas Water Plan.

“Our state's water challenges are daunting and complex, making it essential that we&nbsp;marshal&nbsp;the expertise and advice of&nbsp;all&nbsp;our water&nbsp;agencies,”&nbsp;Connie Owen, director of the Kansas Water Office, said. “The Water Subcabinet can provide the critical experience,&nbsp;knowledge,&nbsp;data, and&nbsp;context necessary to help the state ensure a safe and secure water supply for Kansans.”

The subcabinet will meet regularly and will provide monthly updates to the governor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696619171767.jpg" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Gov.TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that she has formed the Kansas Water Subcabinet to formalize cross-agency coordination, collaboration, and planning on the state’s water quantity and quality priorities. Creating the subcabinet provides an efficient and practical internal forum for experts across several agencies to discuss water-related data and policy and strengthen state government initiatives on emerging and long-term water issues.“My administration has been laser-focused on finding and implementing sustainable solutions to address our state’s water concerns,” Kelly said. “This subcabinet ensures we are all pulling in the same direction in those efforts and building an all-of-government approach to water issues.”The Kansas Water Subcabinet will be managed by the Governor’s Special Advisor on Water, and its permanent members will include representatives from the Kansas Water Office, the Kansas Department of Agriculture, the Kansas Department of Commerce, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.“Our state’s agricultural and rural economy is fueled by water, which is why our stakeholders often point to long-term water management as one of the state’s most critical challenges,”&nbsp;Kansas Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam said. “I’m looking forward to enhancing the collaboration among state officials with an active Water Subcabinet.”The group's tasks could include developing cross-agency goals and strategies on Kansas’ long-term water quantity and quality issues, strengthening service delivery of the state’s water grants and programs, and responding to upcoming and short-term water-related issues while strategizing preventative measures. The subcabinet will also prioritize securing federal or private funding opportunities across agencies to leverage the state’s historic recent investments in the Kansas Water Plan.“Our state's water challenges are daunting and complex, making it essential that we&nbsp;marshal&nbsp;the expertise and advice of&nbsp;all&nbsp;our water&nbsp;agencies,”&nbsp;Connie Owen, director of the Kansas Water Office, said. “The Water Subcabinet can provide the critical experience,&nbsp;knowledge,&nbsp;data, and&nbsp;context necessary to help the state ensure a safe and secure water supply for Kansans.”The subcabinet will meet regularly and will provide monthly updates to the governor.

Governor Kelly creates water subcabinet to drive collaborative solutions

By MALORIE SOUGEY KSU News Service

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is taking the next steps toward a more sustainable future by launching and leading the collaborative, multi-institutional&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/interdisciplinary-institutes/water-institute/" target="_blank">Kansas Water Institute</a>.

The interdisciplinary institute will build on the work of the Kansas Water Resources Institute, which was established under the 1964 Water Resources Research Act and historically operated out of K-State's College of Agriculture. The new Kansas Water Institute will be elevated to a university-level priority at K-State to bring interdisciplinary university resources and expertise together to develop innovative solutions to today's water challenges, leveraging the more than 75 faculty across the university who are working on water-related issues."

Because the new institute is a university-wide initiative, we will be able to utilize the expertise and resources from across the institution," said Beth Montelone, senior associate vice president for research. "This approach will allow us to address water resource challenges in a meaningful and timely manner.

"The institute will draw upon expertise from every K-State college, campus, and Research and Extension station to drive transformational discovery, including conducting research on novel irrigation and water management approaches, reservoir sediment reduction strategies, urban stormwater mitigation, risk factors for water-contaminant driven disease, social perceptions and behaviors around water use, and climate modeling. In addition to research, the Kansas Water Institute will advance interdisciplinary water-related teaching and engagement." 

Kansas State University's launch of the Kansas Water Institute builds on our goal to generate a sustainable future for water throughout Kansas," said Gov. Laura Kelly.

"As my administration remains laser-focused on implementing long-term solutions, I'm looking forward to collaborating with all our partners to drive forward this work to ensure Kansans have reliable water sources for generations to come.

"The Kansas Water Institute's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/interdisciplinary-institutes/water-institute/working-group/" target="_blank">interdisciplinary working group</a>, which includes representation and engagement from all of K-State's academic colleges and campuses, will continue to identify themes and priorities that align with state and national water challenges.

"Water is vital to Kansas' economy, wildlife and citizens' well-being, said Chris Culbertson, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. "This institute will examine water issues from a broad perspective, as our challenges are not only technical but also climatological, cultural and sociological. We will bring together close to 100 faculty members and researchers across the university to address these challenges in a variety of interdisciplinary teams. We will not only do research to solve our current water issues but also train the next generation to ensure that we can sustainably use this precious resource to allow the state to prosper into the future.

"The collaboration won't stop at the university level — tackling the state and nation's water resource challenges will also require leveraging the expertise and knowledge of partnering Board of Regents institutions as well as local, state, and federal agencies and organizations, including the Kansas Department of Agriculture, the Kansas Water Office, the Kansas Geological Survey, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas Biological Survey and the U.S. Geological Survey.

The Kansas Legislature is also working to provide Kansans with the framework, policy and tools — developed in concert with agency partners and stakeholders — to manage, secure and protect a reliable, safe, long-term statewide water supply through the Kansas House Water Committee led by Rep. Jim Minnix.

"The Kansas House Water Committee worked diligently this year to work with experts and community stakeholders to craft historic legislation to invest in the state's water policy and sustainability," said Rep. Minnix. "I appreciate all the time and effort my fellow committee members dedicated to this important issue, and we look forward to furthering our work with the help of the Kansas Water Institute.

"Susan Metzger, director of strategic interdisciplinary program development at K-State and director of the Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment, said that addressing the water resource challenges of our state and nation will require a collective effort and enhanced collaborations across research and education institutions, agencies and organizations.

"We have tremendous water-related expertise in our state," Metzger said, "but by bringing together our existing expertise in new ways, we have the opportunity to tackle our state's and our nation's water resource challenges at a more impactful level.

"The Kansas Water Institute supports the focus on sustainability and community health and well-being in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/plan/opportunity-agenda/" target="_blank">K-State Opportunity Agenda</a>, part of the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan.

"We recognize that water is not just a local concern but a critical state and national issue that demands innovative solutions," said K-State President Richard Linton. "That's why we're leveraging the expertise of our renowned faculty to build strong partnerships committed to making a meaningful impact on water conservation and sustainability. This initiative embodies our university's mission as the Next-Generation Land-Grant University by working collaboratively with stakeholders to positively impact the water future for Kansans and our nation's generations to come.

"For more information about the Kansas Water Institute, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/interdisciplinary-institutes/water-institute/" target="_blank">institute's website</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:water@k-state.edu">water@k-state.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700062169179.jpeg" alt="The Kansas Water Institute will bring together water-related expertise from across the state of Kansas to drive transformational discovery through interdisciplinary research, teaching and engagement. Photo by K-State" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Water Institute will bring together water-related expertise from across the state of Kansas to drive transformational discovery through interdisciplinary research, teaching and engagement. Photo by K-State</figcaption>
 </figure>By MALORIE SOUGEY KSU News ServiceMANHATTAN — Kansas State University is taking the next steps toward a more sustainable future by launching and leading the collaborative, multi-institutional&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/interdisciplinary-institutes/water-institute/" target="_blank">Kansas Water Institute</a>.The interdisciplinary institute will build on the work of the Kansas Water Resources Institute, which was established under the 1964 Water Resources Research Act and historically operated out of K-State's College of Agriculture. The new Kansas Water Institute will be elevated to a university-level priority at K-State to bring interdisciplinary university resources and expertise together to develop innovative solutions to today's water challenges, leveraging the more than 75 faculty across the university who are working on water-related issues."Because the new institute is a university-wide initiative, we will be able to utilize the expertise and resources from across the institution," said Beth Montelone, senior associate vice president for research. "This approach will allow us to address water resource challenges in a meaningful and timely manner."The institute will draw upon expertise from every K-State college, campus, and Research and Extension station to drive transformational discovery, including conducting research on novel irrigation and water management approaches, reservoir sediment reduction strategies, urban stormwater mitigation, risk factors for water-contaminant driven disease, social perceptions and behaviors around water use, and climate modeling. In addition to research, the Kansas Water Institute will advance interdisciplinary water-related teaching and engagement." Kansas State University's launch of the Kansas Water Institute builds on our goal to generate a sustainable future for water throughout Kansas," said Gov. Laura Kelly."As my administration remains laser-focused on implementing long-term solutions, I'm looking forward to collaborating with all our partners to drive forward this work to ensure Kansans have reliable water sources for generations to come."The Kansas Water Institute's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/interdisciplinary-institutes/water-institute/working-group/" target="_blank">interdisciplinary working group</a>, which includes representation and engagement from all of K-State's academic colleges and campuses, will continue to identify themes and priorities that align with state and national water challenges."Water is vital to Kansas' economy, wildlife and citizens' well-being, said Chris Culbertson, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. "This institute will examine water issues from a broad perspective, as our challenges are not only technical but also climatological, cultural and sociological. We will bring together close to 100 faculty members and researchers across the university to address these challenges in a variety of interdisciplinary teams. We will not only do research to solve our current water issues but also train the next generation to ensure that we can sustainably use this precious resource to allow the state to prosper into the future."The collaboration won't stop at the university level — tackling the state and nation's water resource challenges will also require leveraging the expertise and knowledge of partnering Board of Regents institutions as well as local, state, and federal agencies and organizations, including the Kansas Department of Agriculture, the Kansas Water Office, the Kansas Geological Survey, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas Biological Survey and the U.S. Geological Survey.The Kansas Legislature is also working to provide Kansans with the framework, policy and tools — developed in concert with agency partners and stakeholders — to manage, secure and protect a reliable, safe, long-term statewide water supply through the Kansas House Water Committee led by Rep. Jim Minnix."The Kansas House Water Committee worked diligently this year to work with experts and community stakeholders to craft historic legislation to invest in the state's water policy and sustainability," said Rep. Minnix. "I appreciate all the time and effort my fellow committee members dedicated to this important issue, and we look forward to furthering our work with the help of the Kansas Water Institute."Susan Metzger, director of strategic interdisciplinary program development at K-State and director of the Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment, said that addressing the water resource challenges of our state and nation will require a collective effort and enhanced collaborations across research and education institutions, agencies and organizations."We have tremendous water-related expertise in our state," Metzger said, "but by bringing together our existing expertise in new ways, we have the opportunity to tackle our state's and our nation's water resource challenges at a more impactful level."The Kansas Water Institute supports the focus on sustainability and community health and well-being in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/plan/opportunity-agenda/" target="_blank">K-State Opportunity Agenda</a>, part of the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan."We recognize that water is not just a local concern but a critical state and national issue that demands innovative solutions," said K-State President Richard Linton. "That's why we're leveraging the expertise of our renowned faculty to build strong partnerships committed to making a meaningful impact on water conservation and sustainability. This initiative embodies our university's mission as the Next-Generation Land-Grant University by working collaboratively with stakeholders to positively impact the water future for Kansans and our nation's generations to come."For more information about the Kansas Water Institute, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/interdisciplinary-institutes/water-institute/" target="_blank">institute's website</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:water@k-state.edu">water@k-state.edu</a>.

K-State launches multi-institutional Kansas Water Institute

TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly announced the Kansas Department of Agriculture is receiving nearly $25 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support water conservation and groundwater management in the High Plains Aquifer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Kansas farmers drive our state’s economic success, and water quality and quantity are a key part of that,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“This funding will accelerate our work to help more producers voluntarily implement practices that ensure Kansans have access to sustainable, reliable water sources for generations to come.”&nbsp;

The funding comes through USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service as part of the Regional Conservation Partnership Program. The program aims to reduce water use by collaborating with farmers and ranchers to implement a combination of conservation practices including irrigation water management, cover crops, reduced tillage, and nutrient management.&nbsp;

“To feed the world and to operate profitably, Kansas farmers need a secure water supply for this generation and the next,”&nbsp;said Representative Sharice Davids.&nbsp;“Our producers have been working hard to use water even more efficiently, and I'm pleased that this federal investment will help further that mission. Continued success of agriculture in Kansas is critical to our state's economy and lowering food costs — issues that are top of mind as I work with my colleagues to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill.”&nbsp;

The High Plains Aquifer is the largest groundwater source in Kansas and plays an important economic role as farmers rely on it for irrigation. Lying underneath western and south-central Kansas, it consists of several hydraulically connected aquifers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578406941603.png" alt="Map of the High Plains Aquifer. Ellis County and Hays are not located in the aquifer." />
 <figcaption>Map of the High Plains Aquifer. Ellis County and Hays are not located in the aquifer.</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly announced the Kansas Department of Agriculture is receiving nearly $25 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support water conservation and groundwater management in the High Plains Aquifer.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Kansas farmers drive our state’s economic success, and water quality and quantity are a key part of that,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“This funding will accelerate our work to help more producers voluntarily implement practices that ensure Kansans have access to sustainable, reliable water sources for generations to come.”&nbsp;The funding comes through USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service as part of the Regional Conservation Partnership Program. The program aims to reduce water use by collaborating with farmers and ranchers to implement a combination of conservation practices including irrigation water management, cover crops, reduced tillage, and nutrient management.&nbsp;“To feed the world and to operate profitably, Kansas farmers need a secure water supply for this generation and the next,”&nbsp;said Representative Sharice Davids.&nbsp;“Our producers have been working hard to use water even more efficiently, and I'm pleased that this federal investment will help further that mission. Continued success of agriculture in Kansas is critical to our state's economy and lowering food costs — issues that are top of mind as I work with my colleagues to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill.”&nbsp;The High Plains Aquifer is the largest groundwater source in Kansas and plays an important economic role as farmers rely on it for irrigation. Lying underneath western and south-central Kansas, it consists of several hydraulically connected aquifers.&nbsp;Ellis County and Hays are not located in the aquifer.“I’m thrilled that USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service has awarded this grant to Kansas,”&nbsp;said Kansas Department of Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam.&nbsp;“This five-year project, built on a collaborative effort by KDA’s Division of Conservation, the Kansas Water Office, local groundwater management districts, non-governmental conservation groups, private landowners and irrigators, and others, will help implement increased conservation and water efficient practices across the High Plains Aquifer of Kansas. I’m confident this voluntary incentive-based initiative will be a successful project.”&nbsp;The RCPP aims to reduce water use by 10 percent in each of Kansas’ five Groundwater Management Districts. NRCS also announced that Ducks Unlimited will be receiving $10 million as part of the Kansas Nebraska Wetland Initiative to create, restore, and protect wetland and riparian barriers in Nebraska and Kansas. More information about both grants is available&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.HZjjRFtUp9f-nH4796b6_G9jHxgtO3iv0O1JULq0w5U/s/1303161001/br/229949840968-l" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;

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