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Here are some helpful tips on filing a tax extension for the 2016 tax year, keep in mind this year the deadline is Monday April 18th 2017 instead of the traditional April 15th Date. Avoiding Penalties: What to Do If Taxes Can’t Be Filed on Time By Andrew Stratton Everyone knows that federal income taxes are due on April 15th of every year, but what happens if there is a problem completing the return or paying on time? Many assume that the consequences will be harsh, but that is not always the case. The key is to take some simple steps prior to the deadline so that the Internal Revenue Service knows that the process has at least started. Doing nothing at all can result in serious problems, so be sure to contact the IRS if there will be a delay. Request a Filing Extension For those who cannot file a return by the April 15th deadline, there is a possibility to obtain an automatic four-month extension. Approximately six million citizens utilize an extension every year. To file for an extension, fill out Form 4868, an Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File a Tax Return. This will need to be turned in by the regular deadline for filing income taxes. This will provide the taxpayer with a new deadline of August 15th. If more time is needed, a second extension can be requested by filling out Form 2688. It must be filed by August 15th in order to be considered. It will be necessary to provide a probable reason for the extension. If the extension is granted, it allows for a deadline of October 15th to file. Keep in mind that an extended deadline does not allow for a longer time to pay taxes. If money is owed to the IRS, an estimated payment will need to be sent with an extension request. At least 90 percent of the bill will need to be paid in April. Otherwise, there is the probability of incurring penalties and interest for any amount that is not paid. What Happens If an Extension Is Not Requested? For anyone who does not make this request to the IRS by April 15th, they can impose a stiff penalty of up to five percent for each month not to exceed 25 percent. Interest will also be applied to the money that is owed. What If the Money Owed Cannot Be Paid? There may be instances in which it is difficult to make the required payment to the government. If the full payment cannot be remitted, send in as much as possible with a filed return. There is a much worse penalty for not filing at all than for not paying after filing. A penalty can be as much as 25 percent for not filing at all. Paying taxes is an inevitable task for everyone in the country. It is important to file on time and pay what is owed. Make sure to always pay attention to due dates and file extensions if necessary. If a large bill is expected, consider putting some money into a special bank account dedicated to taxes. This will help prevent any surprises from appearing. When considering filing taxes, Yreka, CA residents visit Hofmann Tax & Bookkeeping Service. Learn more at http://www.hofmanntax.com/. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andrew_Stratton/83489 http://EzineArticles.com/?Avoiding-Penalties:-What-to-Do-If-Taxes-Cant-Be-Filed-on-Time&id=9378050    

The Top 10 Most Popular Theme Weddings   The Top 10 Most Popular Theme Weddings By Hannah Tucker You have the ring on your hand and you have set the date – you are getting married! No doubt you are likely excited, nervous and a bit apprehensive. However, now the big decisions come in and you have to begin to decide on the most important elements of your big day, starting with the theme. Selecting the right theme for your wedding day can be as challenging as finding your perfect dress; however, reviewing some of the most popular wedding themes right now may be able to help you make your decision. Number 10: The Woodland Wedding One of the biggest wedding themes that is being used this year is natural and rustic with accents that are sophisticated and glam. This may include centerpieces that are green and branchy, with a number of lush flowers with a pop of sparkle with a faux fur or sequin table overlay. The fashion seen in these weddings typically includes long gowns and veils with lace and floral embellishments. The dresses your bridesmaids wear can mimic yours with mismatched dresses and loose braids for their hair do. Other small touches you may want to include are flower crowns. Number 9: The Fairy Tale Wedding Have you been dreaming of the perfect, fairy tale wedding since your childhood? Have you had your eye on various tiaras, dreaming of the day you would walk down the aisle with your prince charming? The good news is that you don’t have to actually be royalty in order to feel like a princess on your big day. For your dress, go big, with a full skirt and long veil. You could be extravagant with the food as well, including a top-tier plated meal and a huge chocolate fountain, with of course the cake that is as tall as the ceiling. Number 8: Vintage Wedding If you have decided to go with a vintage wedding theme, then lace is a must have. Search for a gown that implements lace with a bit of a modern twist and stick to a more muted palette of colors such as gold, rose, slate grey and ivory, which are all pretty and soft. For the d�cor, you can select unique chandeliers and billowy fabric to create a type of faux canopy above the reception area. Also, mix your covered chairs with natural, wood chairs. You can also extend this vintage theme to the food that you serve. For example, use vintage bottles and fresh lemonade and fruit. Number 7: A Relaxed Beach Ceremony If you are not interested in the latest trends and styles, and just want to relax on your big day while you have a good time, you should consider heading to the beach. A beach wedding is extremely popular for any couple and almost ensures that everyone will have a great time. The fact is that there is nothing that can match saying “I do” with your feet in the surf and sand. You can even make it completely casual by having your bridesmaids either bare foot or in flip flops, with short dresses and skirts. Once the ceremony is over, you can gather around a fire pit with your guests for an oyster roast, or visit a beach front club for dancing and drinks. Number 6: An Ethnic Wedding Multicultural and ethnic weddings are about embracing your traditions, family, culture and color. If you choose this type of event, select rich fabrics, jewelry and beautiful fashion, which is what will help to bring your event to life. An element that is key to this type of wedding is the lighting that you select. Try using bright and strong lighting for your d�cor and creative centerpieces. You may also want to consider hiring musicians and dancers to play songs and traditional dances from your heritage. Number 5: An Extreme Wedding Are you and your fianc� the kind of individuals who love extreme sports, such as throwing themselves out of a plane for fun? When you spend time alone with your loved one, does it usually include skis, a helicopter or scuba gear? If this sounds like you, you may want to consider ditching a traditional wedding and make the event as extreme as you and your love. While it is not too likely that the remainder of your wedding party will want to get in a hot air balloon with you, or hike up a mountain to hear you say “I do,” you can plan an indoor wedding reception that will provide your part and guests with a little taste of what you did. For example, if you are planning an underwater ceremony, you can host your reception at an aquarium. Number 4: A Seasonal Wedding If you would like to host a classic wedding, that is not too outlandish or pricey, then consider celebrating for the current season. For a summer or spring wedding, chose flirty and short dresses in a vibrant or pastel color and be sure that you incorporate many seasonal flowers in the centerpieces and bouquets. In fact, nothing will say spring quite like a bouquet of daises, tulips or sunflowers. You should try to plan for the reception and the ceremony to be held in an outside venue that is full of sunlight and life. If you have decided to get married in the fall, you can play up the colors that are seen during harvest time, such as crimson and chocolate brown. Additionally, you can incorporate seasonal embellishments with wheatgrass flower arrangements, apples and gourds. Number 3: A Macabre Marriage If the idea of a large white dress and a super sweet cake does not make up your dream wedding, then you may find some inspiration thinking outside of the box. While it may seem a bit creepy to some others to exchange your vows in the midst of stylized skulls and carved pumpkins, if

    Photoshoot Tips: Tips on Posing By Summer Marie Fisher Models seem to look so effortlessly beautiful in photographs seen on magazines and billboards, but modelling actually takes a lot of work. To look both stunning and carefree in photographs, models have to take note of so many things. While the photographer does some magic with the pictures, it is still your duty as a model to show the meaning of the picture through your poses. Tip#1 – Be Aware With Your Poses By sending a message through pictures, you have to be completely aware of what you are doing with your body. Good models could give a message without needing a caption and it rarely happens that advertisements show the message of the photograph through words. Though you, as a model, should be aware of what you are trying to imply through your body language. You must act naturally. A mirror should come in handy for this when you need to practice. Tip#2 – Act Naturally While posing, it is important to take note that, to be able to act natural but confident at the same time, you must maintain a gap between your body and your limbs. There are times that putting your limbs too close to your body will make you look awkward while posing. But the most important reason for doing this is to create an illusion that your body is slim. Flattening your limbs against your body will spread out the fat on your limbs, making you look fatter than you are. Tip#3 – Consider Lighting Another thing to think about when posing is lighting. Though you are in a studio and the photographer makes sure that the lighting is good in your area, your posing still affects the lighting of your body. Your understanding of lighting does not have to be as complex as how a photographer understands it. All you need to have is a basic knowledge of lighting – enough for you to know where to put your arms so as to avoid casting unwanted shadows on your body. Tip#4 – Maintain Good Posture The most basic tip that you should remember when posing is to keep a good posture, whatever your pose is. It is important to look confident when posing because that’s how you should be perceived by people. Keep your back straight and your shoulders back so as to look taller and of course thinner. This depends on what kind of poses your photographer wants from you. But if you are asked to look natural, then try to look natural. These tips may vary depending on what kind of poses you are asked to do since the theme of the photo shoot must also be taken into consideration, but in most cases these tips are the most basic ones, and ultimately the standard ones that you should consider when posing. These tips will help you look appealing and most importantly, confident in photographs. Summer Marie Fisher was the founder of Busy Models. She scout future models and place them to agencies around the world. To know more about busy models and how to be a model click here http://busymodels.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Summer_Marie_Fisher http://EzineArticles.com/?Photoshoot-Tips:-Tips-on-Posing&id=8579357    

Tax Filing Season and Tax Law Changes for 2015 By Anthony E Parent Tax laws undergo some minor changes every year, such as inflation adjustments, renewal of deductions, new taxes, and tax increases. As the 2015 tax filing season has started, it is important to stay informed on the latest changes to the tax code and how they can affect you. This article will explore three key areas where some of the biggest changes have been made to the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). Affordable Care Act Changes for 2015 The Affordable Care Act is the law of the land that requires most individuals to have health insurance or risk paying a tax penalty. Per the federal health law’s individual mandate, individuals above certain income thresholds should get health insurance coverage if they are not covered by public programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. If health coverage is not supplied through his or her job, an individual may choose to purchase an individual private policy or get covered under the state-operated insurance marketplace. Those who do not have the minimum level of coverage should be wary because they will be subjected to IRS penalties at the end of the tax year. Here is a brief summary of the non-compliance penalties: the penalty for the 2014 tax year is one percent of income for both individuals and families or $95 for single adults and $285 for families, whichever is greater. This may not seem bad at all when compared to insurance premiums; however, the fact is, the penalty structure is formulated to increase over time. In 2015, the fine will rise significantly to $325 per adult and up to $975 for a family or 2% of income. In 2016, the penalty will be sky high: $695 per individual and $2,085 for a family or 2.5% of income. Small-business owners obtaining insurance through the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) marketplace can qualify for tax credits and tax breaks. Businesses that employ less than 25 full-time workers and pay average annual salaries of less than $50,000 can make use of this program for group health coverage. Per ObamaCare’s employer mandate, businesses with more than 100 full-time employees will have to provide health coverage to at least 70% of their workers starting in 2015. This rule does not apply to companies with 50 to 99 full-time workers until Jan 1, 2016. New Limits on IRA Rollovers in 2015 Finally, some good news from the IRS! Contribution limits to 401(k), 403(b), and other qualified retirement plans have now increased by $500, bringing them to $18,000 in 2015. The catch-up contribution limit for individuals who are 50 or older has also increased by $500. A new year ushered in a new rule from the IRS that put restrictions on the number of IRA-to-IRA rollovers. Starting in 2015, taxpayers can do only one rollover in a 12-month period, irrespective of how many IRAs the individual has. A second 60-day IRA-to-IRA rollover could result in a 10% early withdrawal penalty, and the distribution will be subject to taxation. The old rules allowed individuals to do one such rollover per year for each IRA that they owned, which created penalty-free and interest-free loans. Sadly, the new change limits taxpayers from taking such tax-free rollover provisions. There is no reason to be alarmed, since this new rule change does not apply to traditional IRA to Roth IRA conversions or trustee-to-trustee transfers. This direct rollover transfer method lets investors transfer funds any number of times between IRA accounts without taking control of the money. This transfer is tax-free and does not trigger the 10% early withdrawal penalty. Get expert guidance if you hold multiple IRA accounts and are planning to do transfers but are not confident about whether they fall within the rollover limit or the distribution is tax-free. 2015 Tax Rates and Other Inflation Changes For 2015, inflation-based adjustments are made for all tax brackets: the top 39.6% tax bracket, for example, will start at $413,200 for unmarried filers (up from $406,750 in 2014) and $464,850 for married joint filers (up from $457,600). The standard deduction for the 2015 tax year is $6,300 for single filers and $12,600 for married joint filers. The personal exemption gets an increase of another $50 to $4,000 in 2015. Individuals in the 25%, 33%, and 35% [http://www.irsmedic.com/unfiled-tax-returns/]federal income tax brackets will pay the same 15% on capital gains, but taxpayers in the 39.6% bracket will have to pay more, as they will now be taxed at a 20% rate on long-term capital gains. Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tax-Filing-Season-and-Tax-Law-Changes-for-2015&id=8937206] Tax Filing Season and Tax Law Changes for 2015

10 Easy Eco-Friendly Easter Ideas   Author: William Giardelli If you want your kids to celebrate Easter the nature-friendly way, here are some eco-friendly Easter ideas to get you started: Eggs – This probably tops the list of any mom who wants to go green this Easter Sunday. Let go of the usual synthetic, chemical dyes and dye your Easter eggs the natural way. To do this, you have either buy an egg coloring eco-friendly kit or make your own dyes yourself. The use of either eco-coloring kit and natural dyes allows you and your kids to bond over egg-painting sessions that are not only fun but environment-friendly as well. Egg Alternatives – Amp up your eco-friendly measures a little further by using paper mache eggs instead. Paper mache eggs painted with eco-friendly dyes will last you years and years of Easter celebrations, with proper care. Again, molding your paper maches with your kids can be another fun thing to do together this coming Easter. Baskets – Avoid buying new baskets and go for your old ones instead. Reusing old household baskets will save you the money and more materials you would have to acquire should you want an entirely new set. After Easter, utilize these baskets into regular household functions. Try choosing those baskets with versatile features–those that you can use in various ways around the house. If you don\’t have old baskets, make sure to save them this year for a more eco-friendly Easter next year! Basket Grass – Ditch the synthetic green fillers and grab your old newspapers and magazines to make your DIY grass fillers. Shred or cut pages from your old newspapers and magazines and die them to become your eco-friendly basket grass/fillers. Doing this with your kids will be an avenue for you educate them about how the three R\’s are being followed just by this eco-friendly grass alternative. Egg Holders – From now on, collect your cardboard tissue fillers–with a little creative tweak here and there, you can transform this seemingly useless waste into colorful egg holders. Simply cut each cardboard tissue filler into three and have your kids paint them with whatever design they want using an eco-coloring set. Candies by Bulk – Instead of buying candies with individual plastic wrappers, go for those that come in huge packages that aren\’t individually wrapped. This way, you can reduce the use of useless plastic wrappers and be more eco-friendly with your candy-giving. Organic Candies – Speaking of candies, why not bring your candy-shopping up to a whole new level by going for organic candies? Synthetic candies contain chemicals and preservatives that are not too environment-friendly. Ask the help of the grocery personnel to lead you to the section of organic candies and treats. You\’ll find a whole lot of choices from hard candy to chocolate that your kids will definitely love. Green Treats – Another option aside from giving out candies is to give kids long-lasting treats such as books. Books are wonderful, educational gifts that last for years, even decades. You can also give them recycled sketchpads for their quirky artwork (which can also be recycled into gift wrappers or notebook covers). Bookstores have an entire selection of recycled school supplies from which you can select. Toys – Some other treats you can also give away are toys – but not the plastic ones. Replace your usual plastic, disposable toys with longer-lasting word puzzle sets, board games, or magnetic boards. They will be able to enjoy these toys for a long time without being harsh to the environment. Decorations – You may have to let go of your foil decorations now – recycled egg ornaments are definitely cooler, creative, fun, and eco-friendly. To make your very own egg ornaments, Punch small holes from both ends of each egg and blow out the contents (use the contents for baking cakes and cookies) onto a platter. Clean each egg with running water and soap. Let them dry, and then proceed on to painting them with your natural dyes and eco-coloring kits. Encourage your kids to be as creative as they can or provide them start-up ideas on how to decorate their eggs. Affirm them by saying that these eggs will last for the following Easter celebrations to come, so they have to give it their best in decorating them. This is a fun and surely memorable way to have your kids help you in your Easter Sunday preparations. Going green in all aspects of your daily living – including celebrations – demonstrates to your kids the importance of going eco-friendly. Once they see you so committed to being environment-friendly, the significance of going green will be more inculcated in them, making them truly understand that taking care of the environment is not only a thing of the books, but a real lifestyle. Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/holidays-articles/10-easy-eco-friendly-easter-ideas-5813988.html About the Author William Giardelli, concerned with the harsh and toxic chemicals often used by carpet cleaning companies, founded WholeHome Carpet Cleaning on a triple-promise: green carpet cleaning, baby-safe carpet cleaning, and pet-safe carpet cleaning.

Prepare for Spring Planting: Seven Tips for Conditioning Your Garden’s Depleted Soil By Rich Affeldt Spring has sprung, or at least it appears that way at home and garden centers everywhere. Before going on a shopping spree (what gardener can resist?), prepare your soil for the busy months ahead. A little prep work now will ensure the health and vitality of your plants for months to come. The truth is, we demand a lot of our soil. We expect to fill our kitchens with healthy, homegrown fruits and vegetables, yet we often overlook the needs of our soil. Here are seven easy tips for getting your garden ready for the growing season ahead: 1. Identify soil type. Plants grow best in fertile, loamy soil containing a balance of sand, silt and clay. Yet, most gardeners deal with the extremes-loose, sandy soil that dries out too quickly, or heavy clay that drains slowly. Add plenty of well-composted organic matter (approximately one to two inches) to improve either type. 2. Test pH levels. Acidity or alkalinity influences how plants absorb essential nutrients. Test kits from local extension offices or home improvement stores can tell you whether to increase acidity by adding sulfur, or reduce it with limestone. Most vegetables do best under slightly acidic conditions. 3. Ensure proper drainage. Plants need water, but they don’t like wet feet. Organic materials help keep sandy soils from draining too quickly and help improve the aeration and drainage of clay soils. And if you aren’t using raised beds, grade and level the soil to keep excess water from pooling. 4. Track the sun. New gardeners should track sun and shade patterns before preparing a site. Fruit producing plants (tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, peppers, etc.) need six to eight hours of bright sun per day. Leafy green vegetables and herbs (beets, carrots, spinach, basil, etc.) can get by with less. 5. Let soil dry. Anxious gardeners who work the ground too early will destroy soil structure and end up with a garden that resembles concrete. To determine if soil is sufficiently dry, squeeze a handful into a ball and drop it on the ground. If it crumbles, it is ready. If it stays together or flattens, it is still too wet. 6. Use chemical fertilizers responsibly. Synthetic chemical fertilizers are a quick way to feed plants directly, but they can undermine soil health by speeding the decay of soil organic matter and acidifying the soil. If you use synthetic fertilizer, have your soil fertility tested to avoid over-application and nutrient imbalances. 7. Remineralize. Replace the right balance of minerals and trace elements (such as magnesium, calcium, silicon and iron) that have been depleted and which are essential to plant and human health. Research shows that volcanic basalt improves root systems, increases yields and promotes plant health in a wide variety of conditions and crops. Above all, remember that soil improvement is an ongoing effort. It takes effort, but the reward of great-tasting, nutritious fruits and vegetables makes it all worthwhile. Rich Affeldt is Chief Agronomist for Cascade Mineral Products which manufactures all-natural Cascade Minerals Remineralizing Soil Booster. Made of finely milled volcanic basalt, this 100% natural remineralizing soil booster is approved for organic production and releases into the soil the essential minerals and trace elements that plants and humans need to flourish. Find out more at [http://www.CascadeMineralsNW.com]http://www.CascadeMineralsNW.com. Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Prepare-for-Spring-Planting:-Seven-Tips-for-Conditioning-Your-Gardens-Depleted-Soil&id=8375892] Prepare for Spring Planting: Seven Tips for Conditioning Your Garden’s Depleted Soil

Explore the Grandeur of Georgia By Ambrish S Kumar Georgia is a spectacular combination of tradition and modernity. The wilderness, amazing mountain ranges, exotic national parks comprising rare flora and fauna majestically intertwine with the sophisticated cities. Whether you are visiting Georgia for fun, adventure, romance, or are on a business appointment, it is sure you won’t return disappointed. Georgia has several attractions that are worth exploring. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest Encompassing huge swaths of green forests, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a real treat to the eyes. It is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hectic and tension-filled city life. The Chattahoochee National Forest covers 18 Georgia counties and comprises around ten wildernesses. Besides, the picturesque surroundings that appeal to tourists; here you can indulge in some very exciting sports. Kayaking, horseback riding, hiking and fishing are just some of the activities that would keep you entertained. Spend some time at Helen, a small village located in the forests. A replica of a Bavarian alpine town, Helen is a favorite getaway for families out on vacation. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site throws valuable light on the work and life of Martin Luther King, Jr, one of the greatest civil rights champions during the 20th century. The historic site comprises several buildings associated with King such as his birthplace and childhood home. Take a walk down to Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King was baptized as a child. In 1960 King became a co-pastor at the church and remained in this position till his death in 1968. Another place worth visiting is The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, Inc. The center was established by King’s wife Coretta Scott King in 1968. Here you can view the final resting place of King as well as exhibits of Mahatma Gandhi. The personal belongings of King as well as his family are also exhibited at the historic site. Fox Theatre Situated in one of Georgia’s biggest towns, Atlanta, Fox Theatre is an amazing piece of architecture. It’s Moorish design indicates that the theatre was initially designed as a religious shrine, instead a theatre was built here. The theatre opened in 1929. Today it hosts a number of events such as the Atlanta Ballet as well as enchanting performances by touring companies of Broadway shows. One of the most amazing features that make the theatre stand out from the other buildings in its vicinity is its minarets and beautiful onion domes. Jekyll Island If you want some time of your own and are looking for a place which provides you with a bit of solitude but does not get boring then Jekyll Island is a place which you ought to visit. Apart from watching the splendid surroundings, there are many activities to keep you occupied. These include walks along the beaches, bike trails and a water park. Take a walk down the marshes and you can view stunning species of birds and reptiles. The Horton House, which is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Jekyll Island, is a major tourist attraction. The house dates back to the times of the British rule in Georgia. Built in 1742, the house was occupied by Major William Horton who is also known to have brewed beer in Georgia’s first brewery. The brewery, situated near the house, is now in shambles. A paradise for travelers, many scenes of the X-Men: First Class were filmed in Jekyll Island. Stone Mountain Park Spread over 3,200 acres of land, Stone Mountain Park comprises magnificent forests and fantastic theme parks. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Atlanta, the park offers traveler many amazing sites and activities. 15 miles of nature trails, golf courses, treetop rope climbing and other such activities would keep you busy during your stay at the park. Here you can also view the world’s largest high-relief sculpture. This incredible carving depicts Jefferson Davis, Robert E Lee and Thomas Stonewall Jackson, the three leading figures of the Confederate Civil War. Amicalola Falls Of the many spectacular sights that Georgia has to offer Amicalola Falls is just one of them. Considered one of the seven natural wonders of Georgia, the 729 foot Amicalola Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Georgia State. Hiking trails, campground, guest lodge, restaurant cabins are some the facilities that the Amicalola Falls State Park offers to visitors looking to explore the wild side of Georgia. Georgia Aquarium Time would fly at the Georgia Aquarium. It is an astonishing treasure-trove of different types of marine life. The aquarium is home to more than 100,000 animals, which represent over 500 species. Georgia Aquarium opened in 2005 and at that time was considered to be one of the biggest aquariums in the world. Some of the most popular species that visitors can find at the aquarium include the huge beluga whales, manta rays, the dangerous whale sharks and playful bottlenose dolphins. Callaway Gardens Located amidst serene and tranquil environments, it seems as if heavens have descended on earth. The gardens are frequented by more than half a million tourists from around the world. The habitat, which was created by industrialist Cason Callaway in 1952, comprises gardens of magnolias and azaleas, a butterfly house and well-maintained artificial lakes. Cycling enthusiasts and avid walkers would find the place charming as the garden has several trails apt for both walking as well as cycling. As you cruise on your cycle through the Discovery Bike Trail spanning 16 kilometers, you will witness amazing scenic beauty unfold before your eyes. It is also home to the Robin Lake Beach, which holds the distinction of being the largest man-made white sand beach in the world. You can also indulge in the game of golf at the two sprawling golf courses in the gardens. Forsyth Park A visit to Forsyth Park would make you wonder at the immense care and effort that God has put in to create the

Five of the Most Common Complaints Of Identity Theft And Tips On How To Avoid Becoming A Victim By Gerard R Cassagnol Identity Theft has become the fastest growing crime in in all of the world. In tops the list as the number one consumer complaint in the United States, with 19 people becoming victims of identity theft every minute. Unfortunately, with the greater use of the internet, the problem is predicted to grow. So what is identity theft and how could it effect you? Identity theft is a form of fraud that occurs when an individual or group of people steals your personal information for the purpose of financial or social gain. It happens in a number ways. Thieves steal credit card payments and other outgoing mail from private, curbside mailboxes. They file a change of address form in the victim’s name to divert mail and gather personal and financial data. They dig through garbage cans or dumpsters in search of cancelled checks, credit card and bank statements, and pre-approved credit card offers.They hack into computers that contain personal records and steal the data. They use malware software to steal your information over the internet. They also use phishing in email to get you to give them your personal information. Of course, these are just some of the common ways this crime happens. There are new tactics being introduced all of the time. While the majority of these crimes involve theft for financial gain, there are many different types of identity theft, ranging from driver’s license id theft to social security number theft. Statistics tell us that 19% of identity theft involves credit card or bank accounts. Here are the four most common types of identity theft complaints as reported to the Federal Trade Commission: 1. Government Documents and Benefits Fraud – this accounts for 46%*. This crime includes things like theft of your social security number, or your driver’s license, your Veterans Administration benefits, or your tax refund check. Complaints in this category increased 27 percentage points since 2010. The FTC said tax or wage-related fraud accounted for the growth in this area. Tax returns, mainly those where a refund is expected, are new targets of criminals. Another scheme uses your social security number so that illegal immigrants can get employment. A CBS News report in June 2006, stated that a woman’s social security number was being used by 81 people. The woman, who lived in San Francisco, California, only learned of this when she received a tax statement from the IRS stating she owed $15,813 in back taxes, even though she hadn’t worked in years. Ironically, the taxes were for work performed in Texas. 2. Credit Card Fraud – this accounts for 13% of identity theft*. It can happen in a number of ways. Every time you hand your card to an waiter, or swipe it at a gas station, or use it online to purchase something, it opens you up to this type of fraud. One reported problem happens at gas stations. Thieves install a type of skimmer at the pump that reads your credit or debit card information when you swipe your card for gas. They then sell this information. In January 2014, ABC News reported that two Mexicans were arrested at the Texas border, after using stolen information from a Target credit and debit card security breach, to purchase several thousands of dollars. The Target security breach is believed to have involved 40 million credit and debit card accounts and the personal information of 70 million customers. 3. Phone and Utilities Fraud – this accounts for 10%*. Someone steals your personal information to use your name and credit to establish an account with the water company, or the phone company, or the electric or gas company. These people will steal your good name and credit to benefit themselves, even selling your information to a third party, where it could be used by hundreds of people. This crime also happens with cell phones – wireless phone accounts – and it is predicted to become the number one complaint in this category. 4. Bank Account Fraud – this accounts for 6%*. This ranges from forgery to writing bad checks, and electronically transferring large sums of money. A January 2014 LA Times article shared a story about a woman who had five accounts compromised, at three different banks. A January 2014 report by the website Wet Paint states that an ex-con was charged with bank fraud after he opened a company account and funneled bad checks, stolen airline retirement checks, and auto loan profits to the account. It was reported that he used his new company to gain access to certain people’s information to to commit this fraud. 5. Other – this accounts for 25%*. It includes all other categories, including Medical Fraud, and Attempted Fraud. A news article published in 2008 reported that a young marine had lost his wallet while in training camp in South Carolina. After boot camp, he was stationed in California. It was almost a year later, when his mother called and informed him that he was wanted for car theft. He also owed over $20,000 in medical bills. It turned out that a man back in South Carolina had used his driver’s license to test drive and steal new cars. This same man also had medical treatment for kidney stones and an injured hand. Before the marine could clarify the whole mess, his state tax return check was garnished, and his credit was ruined. He also faced potential issues with his medical records. If he were to visit family back in South Carolina and need medical attention, his current medical records could influence what type of medical treatment he could receive. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, Identity Theft cost Americans $24.7 billion dollars in 2012. For many victims the financial and psychological effects can be damaging, and can last a very long time. So what can you do