February Short Bits

MATH ERRORS

The IRS had a record-setting year in 2021 for sending notices to taxpayers who made math errors on their returns. From January 1 to July 15, about nine million notices were sent out, compared to just over 600,000 for the same period in 2020. Most of the math errors were related to the stimulus payments provided by the pandemic financial relief legislation.

TRAILBLAZING WOMEN

Starting this year and through 2025, the U.S. Mint will release five new quarter designs each year to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of trailblazing American women. The 2022 coins recognize the achievements of Maya Angelou, Dr. Sally Ride, Wilma Mankiller, Nina Otero-Warren, and Anna May Wong.

TEACHING PERSONAL FINANCE

Ohio became the latest state to pass legislation requiring high school students to take a personal finance class before graduation. Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, Ohio joins other states like Mississippi, North Carolina and Rhode Island with similar education requirements. Topics kids will learn include basic budgeting, opening a bank account and managing student loans.

REMOTE WORK

According to a recent Gallup Poll, 91% of remote employees surveyed reported their desire to continue working from home, while over half support a hybrid at-home and at-office arrangement. And about 30% of workers said they would look for another job if their current employer eliminates remote work. Commute time coupled with wellbeing and flexibility were the top reasons workers mentioned for continuing remote working. And the majority of employees didn’t believe company culture would be harmed without a physical office location.