January 2021 Volume 2
Purpose
The purpose of Kappa Beta Delta is to encourage and recognize scholarship and accomplishment among students of business pursuing associate degrees. To encourage and promote personal and professional improvement and a life distinguished by honorable service to humankind.
Tax Tips for Those in the Military
The Internal Revenue Service has certain special tax breaks and programs for members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Here are just a few.
Earned Income Tax Credit
If you get nontaxable combat pay, you may choose to include it in your taxable income. Including it may boost your earned income tax credit, meaning you may owe less tax and could get a larger refund. In 2015, the maximum credit for taxpayers was $6,242. The average amount of EITC claimed was more than $2,400. You may want to consider running both calculations to see what choice best benefits you.
Signing Joint Returns
As a rule, both spouses normally must sign a joint income tax return. If your spouse is absent due to military duty, you may be able to sign for your spouse. Keep in mind, however, that you may need a power of attorney to file a joint return.
Job Search
If you leave the military and look for work, you may be able to deduct some job search expenses. You may be able to include the costs of travel, preparing a resume and job placement agency fees.
* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.
Tip adapted from IRS
Stay Healthy During Flu Season
This flu season, it's more important than ever to stay healthy. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you may reduce your risk this flu season.
· Get the flu vaccination: The Centers for Disease Control estimates that last year, fewer than half of all Americans got the flu vaccine. While getting the vaccine may not prevent you from getting a strain of the flu, it may help you avoid one of the other strains. This is especially important for anyone with a chronic health condition, and for those who are 65 years of age and older.
· Wash your hands: Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the flu. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and wash your hands often.
· Disinfect: Disinfect objects that you touch every day, like doorknobs, your car's steering wheel, and other household items that you use regularly.
While this information should not substitute for medical advice from your healthcare provider, implementing better habits, like frequent handwashing, wearing a face mask, and avoiding anyone who is ill, may help you and your loved ones stay healthy this flu season.
Tip adapted from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Clean Out Electronic Clutter
If you were lucky enough to get an upgraded phone or computer this holiday season, you might not know what to do with the old one. Fortunately, there are many options to get rid of your old electronics that are also good for the environment.
Old electronics that are still in good working order can be cleaned out of personal information and either donated or passed on to someone else who can use them.
Electronics not working well enough to be donated? Check out your local area for scheduled electronic waste recycling days. Special recycling centers in your area might also specifically deal with recycling electronics, too.
Tip adapted from TheSpruce
Scholarship Opportunity
AAUW is an organization that promotes equity for all women
AAUW has decided to open the scholarship to any college or university student in Indiana.
Ivy Tech students may apply.
It is the Calumet branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW).
KBD Lake County Advisors
Dr. Trina Lynch-Jackson
Professor Joseph Joniec
Adjunct Faculty Aleesha Thirkles-Williams