Goossen CPA PC

I came across this today at the Canadian Consulate in Denver and it reminded me just how interconnected our region really is. Canada is Kansas’ number two international trade partner, with more than $2.6 billion in goods exported from Kansas to Canada each year and $2.1 billion imported back. Over 191 Canadian-owned companies employ nearly 10,000 Kansans, and many Kansas businesses rely on Canadian partnerships for growth, supply chains, and opportunity.

When economies work together, families and communities do better. But anyone who has ever tried navigating business across the border knows there are also complex tax and compliance rules to manage. I work with individuals and businesses every day who operate between the U.S. and Canada, and I continue to be encouraged by the way cross-border cooperation strengthens local economies like ours here in Kansas.

If you run a business, invest, own property, or earn income on either side of the border and have questions about tax compliance, treaty benefits, or planning opportunities, I am always glad to be a resource.

Stronger together, Canada and Kansas.

Feel free to message me or visit www.goossen.cpa if you ever want to discuss cross-border tax questions.

💡 October Tax Updates

Here’s what’s new from IRS and Kansas — and a few thoughts from me:

IRS Updates
💵 2026 inflation adjustments released: Many tax thresholds and credits increased. For example, the standard deduction for married filing jointly will jump to $32,200.
📱 No more paper refund checks: Starting Sept. 30, 2025, individual refunds must be delivered electronically (e.g., direct deposit or prepaid debit card options offered).
🌍 Israel conflict relief extended: Tax filing, payment, and other deadlines are delayed through September 30, 2026, for affected taxpayers.
🤝 Volunteer tax help: IRS is recruiting volunteers for VITA / TCE programs for the coming filing season.

Kansas Updates
📊 Sept 2025 revenue results: Collections tracked very close to estimates. Withholding (income tax) was stronger than expected; corporate tax receipts lagged.
📉 No automatic rate cut for 2026: State revenues did not hit the threshold needed to trigger Kansas income tax rate reductions. Rates will remain as they are next year.

On the “No Paper Check” Shift — My Perspective

I generally advise clients to use direct deposit whenever possible. It’s faster, more convenient, and avoids the risk of a refund check getting lost in the mail.

Yet I also recognize the concern: by routing refunds directly into your bank account, the IRS will hold your banking information — which could raise privacy or future liability worries. For example, if the IRS ever needed to pursue collections or garnishments, having that link to your bank might simplify that path.

It’s worth noting: IRS plans include the option of prepaid debit cards as an alternative for people who prefer not to provide bank account information.

If you’d like to discuss which method makes sense for your situation — or want help planning ahead for the 2026 filing season — feel free to reach out.

💡 September Tax Updates

A few recent IRS and Kansas tax updates that may affect you:

IRS Updates

💵 Interest rates on tax balances stay the same for Oct–Dec 2025 (7% for most individuals).

🛡 Identity theft warning: The IRS reports nearly 300 data breaches at tax firms this year. If you use a tax preparer, ask if they’re using IRS security tools like the Identity Protection PIN.

🌪 Disaster preparedness: September is National Preparedness Month. In federally declared disasters, the IRS typically extends deadlines automatically. Good reminder to safeguard key documents.

🚫 Fraudulent tax credit schemes are circulating online. Thousands of improper claims have been denied, and penalties are being assessed. Be cautious of “quick refund” promises.

📑 Roth catch-up rules finalized: Higher-income 401(k) savers age 50+ will be required to make catch-up contributions as Roth starting in 2027.

🍹 “No tax on tips” proposal: The IRS listed nearly 70 tipped occupations (like bartenders, servers, and drivers) that could benefit. Rules aren’t final yet.

🐄 Farm & ranch drought relief: Producers in most of the U.S., including Kansas, can defer gain on forced livestock sales due to drought. Many replacement deadlines are extended.

Kansas DOR Updates

📈 August 2025 tax collections came in stronger than expected, mainly from income tax withholding—an indicator of a solid local job market.

🛒 Local sales tax rate changes took effect Oct 1, 2025. If you operate a business, double-check the updated city and county rates.

👉 If you have questions about how these changes affect you or your business, reach out anytime.