Our tax filings are pretty simple. No complex investment income (in fact NO income other than wages and some interest income until pretty recently). Deductions are pretty straight forward - mortgage interest and charitable contributions. Nothing controversial - local and national charities. We NEVER had any attention paid to our tax filings - ever - in 30 odd years.
But in the last year, becoming aware at the mess our country is in, I have started paying more attention - and become more "vocal." Nothing outrageous. Calls and letters to our Congresswoman and Senators. Calls and e-mails to the White House. Never had any reservations about stating my name and address.
But today in the mail I found a letter from the IRS. more below
It was a request for additional information, focusing on pretty much the ONLY thing that could possibly be questioned - our charitable deductions.
I'm not concerned. We have cancelled checks, receipts, letters and all else to back up our deductions. If anything, I suspect that we claim LESS than we actually could. We don't keep track of all we donate and give.... we don't deduct mileage and claim every last cent we're entitled to.
As noted, there's nothing to look at as far as income goes. All is above board and documented. Nothing to hide.
But, I can't help but wonder...... why the interest?
What's changed? I suppose we've increased our giving but the scale is in line with past giving and increases in income. Seems strange.
But as noted, the ONLY thing that has really changed is a far more visible and vocal questioning of our current President on my part. I suspect that my number now pops up on caller ID at the White House Comment line and I'm now shuttled directly to the crusty old women that try to cut your comments short. What happened to the young interns that were polite and actually listened?
Those living through the Nixon years remember what happened then...... ANY perceived "enemy" could expect unwanted "attention" from the government - including the IRS. ANd it seems that our current Administration HAS been taking "retribution" in direct ways against very vocal critics - the "no fly" list being one method of revenge.
So..... am I being paranoid? Or are we entering an era of Nixon-redux?
Anyone else out there have suspicions or stories to relate?