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The standard business mileage rate will be going up slightly in 2024

The optional standard mileage rate used to calculate the deductible cost of operating an automobile for business will be going up by 1.5 cents per mile in 2024. The IRS recently announced that the cents-per-mile rate for the business use of a car, van, pickup or panel truck will be 67 cents (up from 65.5 cents for 2023).

The increased tax deduction partly reflects the price of gasoline, which is about the same as it was a year ago. On December 21, 2023, the national average price of a gallon of regular gas was $3.12, compared with $3.10 a year earlier, according to AAA Gas Prices.

Standard rate vs. tracking expenses

Businesses can generally deduct the actual expenses attributable to business use of vehicles. These include gas, tires, oil, repairs, insurance, licenses and vehicle registration fees. In addition, you can claim a depreciation allowance for the vehicle. However, in many cases, certain limits apply to depreciation write-offs on vehicles that don’t apply to other types of business assets.

The cents-per-mile rate is helpful if you don’t want to keep track of actual vehicle-related expenses. However, you still must record certain information, such as the mileage for each business trip, the date and the destination.

The standard rate is also used by businesses that reimburse employees for business use of their personal vehicles. These reimbursements can help attract and retain employees who drive their personal vehicles for business purposes. Why? Under current law, employees can’t deduct unreimbursed employee business expenses, such as business mileage, on their own income tax returns.

If you use the cents-per-mile rate, keep in mind that you must comply with various rules. If you don’t comply, reimbursements to employees could be considered taxable wages to them.

Rate calculation

The business cents-per-mile rate is adjusted annually. It’s based on an annual study commissioned by the IRS about the fixed and variable costs of operating a vehicle, such as gas, maintenance, repairs and depreciation. Occasionally, if there’s a substantial change in average gas prices, the IRS will change the rate midyear.

Not always allowed

There are cases when you can’t use the cents-per-mile rate. In some situations, it depends on how you’ve claimed deductions for the same vehicle in the past. In other situations, it hinges on if the vehicle is new to your business this year or whether you want to take advantage of certain first-year depreciation tax breaks on it.

As you can see, there are many factors to consider in deciding whether to use the standard mileage rate to deduct business vehicle expenses. Contact Padgett if you have questions about tracking and claiming such expenses in 2024 — or claiming 2023 expenses on your 2023 tax return.

8 Tax Deductions Every Small Business Owner Should Know

As a small business owner, managing your finances is crucial to ensuring the success and growth of your venture. One of the most effective ways to optimize your financial strategy is by understanding and leveraging the various tax deductions available to you. By taking advantage of these deductions, you can significantly reduce your tax liabilities, increase your bottom line, and keep more of your hard-earned money. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the top tax deductions that every savvy business owner should be aware of.

1. Business use of your home

Running a business from home? You’re in luck. The home office deduction allows qualifying taxpayers to deduct a portion of their home-related expenses when part of their home is used exclusively for business purposes. This includes expenses like rent, utilities, insurance, and property taxes. To qualify, you must have a designated space used solely for business activities and meet specific IRS criteria. Qualified taxpayers can use the simplified method or regular method of calculating their home office expense deduction. Remember, accurate record-keeping is key to support your deduction claims.

2. Business use of your car

If you use your car solely for business purposes, you may deduct the entire cost of owning and operating it, although there are some limits to this deduction. However, if you use the car for both business and personal use, you can only deduct the expenses related to its business use. There are two main methods for calculating deductible car expenses: the standard mileage rate method and the actual expense method 

Under the standard mileage rate method, you can deduct qualified business miles using the rate provided by the IRS. Under the actual expense method, you’ll need to calculate the precise expenses associated with operating the car exclusively for business purposes. This generally includes costs such as fuel, oil, maintenance, tires, insurance, registration fees, licenses, and even depreciation directly linked to the portion of total mileage driven for business miles. Please note that what the IRS considers commuting miles is not tax deductible; only business miles are. Reach out to your advisor to make sure you’re classifying your miles correctly!

3. Supplies and equipment

Your taxable income could be reduced significantly by deducting expenses related to supplies and equipment. The cost of supplies, such as office supplies, cleaning materials and other consumables crucial for day-to-day operations, can be deducted as legitimate business expenses. Equipment purchases, such as computers, machinery and essential tools, however, must be deducted over time through depreciation unless they qualify to be deducted in full. To ensure you can substantiate these deductions, it’s essential to maintain precise records and keep track of receipts. By making the most of these deductions, you can effectively manage your business finances and optimize your tax liability, ultimately contributing to the financial health and long-term sustainability of your venture. Remember to consult with a tax professional or accountant for tailored advice based on your specific business circumstances.

4. Cost of goods sold

As a small business owner, you can benefit from deducting the cost of goods sold (COGS) as a tax deduction. COGS encompasses the direct expenses associated with producing or acquiring the products you sell, such as raw materials and inventory purchases. By deducting COGS, you have the opportunity to lower your taxable income and potentially reduce your tax liability. It’s important to maintain accurate records to potentially claim this deduction.

5. Business related meals

Despite the changes brought about by recent tax reforms, meals continue to hold value. Business-related meals, whether with clients or during business travel, may still be deductible. However, it’s essential to maintain proper documentation, such as receipts and records that establish its business purpose. Remember, meals must meet the criteria of a qualified expense for it to be considered deductible. It’s also worth noting that the regulations governing these deductions have become stricter, so it’s advisable to collaborate with your advisor to stay informed about the latest rules.

6. Employee-related expenses

Having employees involves various costs, many of which are deductible. This includes wages, bonuses, payroll taxes and benefits like health insurance. Ensuring proper worker classification (employee vs. contractor) is vital and the first step in avoiding scrutiny.

7. Travel expenses

Expenses for business travel can quickly accumulate, but many of these costs are deductible. This includes transportation, lodging, most meals and incidental expenses. Keeping records and receipts is essential to substantiate your claims and establish its business purpose as opposed to a family vacation with a bit of work sprinkled in.

8. Health insurance premiums for owners

For small businesses, covering the health insurance premiums of its owners and their families can be a significant expense. The IRS allows for different ways to deduct these premiums depending upon your business’s tax entity type. Meeting the eligibility criteria is essential to claim this deduction.

Conclusion

Navigating the realm of small business taxes can be complex, but the potential benefits are undeniable. By being aware of these top tax deductions, you’re better equipped to make informed financial decisions that can have a positive impact on your business’s bottom line. However, tax laws and regulations change, so staying up to date is crucial. Consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re maximizing your deductions while staying compliant with the latest rules. By strategically utilizing these deductions, you can pave the way for a more financially efficient and prosperous small business journey. 

Remember, the information provided here is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional tax advice. Contact your local Padgett advisor for personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation. Find your nearest Padgett advisor here!

Tax Tips for Self-Employed Individuals

Being a solo entrepreneur or independent contractor has its perks – flexible schedules, creative freedom, and the ability to be your own boss. However, it also comes with its fair share of responsibilities, particularly when it comes to managing your finances and taxes. Self-employed individuals are generally treated as independent contractors, which include freelancers, gig workers, sole proprietors and the like when it comes to paying taxes. These workers often face unique tax considerations that can be quite different from traditional employees. In this blog post, we’ll dive into some essential tax tips that can help these individuals navigate the world of taxes with confidence and help ensure they are making the most of their income. 

Understanding Your Tax Obligations

One of the key differences for self-employed individuals is the absence of employer withholding. Unlike traditional employees who have their taxes deducted from their paychecks, self-employed workers are responsible for calculating and paying their own taxes. This means that understanding your tax obligations is crucial to avoiding any unpleasant surprises come tax season. 

1. Self-Employment Tax and Income Tax

If you are considered self-employed by the IRS, you are generally responsible for paying both the self-employment (SE) tax, which consists of Social Security and Medicare taxes, and income tax. Unlike individuals employed by someone else, self-employed individuals are responsible for the full 15.3% tax rate. But don’t worry, there is an SE tax deduction we’ll talk about that could be a big tax saver. 

2. Estimated Taxes

Since self-employed people don’t have taxes withheld from their income throughout the year, it’s important to make estimated tax payments on a quarterly basis. This prevents a significant tax liability from accruing at the end of the year. There are several ways to approach calculating estimated taxes, depending on the other activity expected on your return and what your tax goals are. Remember, underestimating your payments might lead to penalties, so it’s wise to consult a tax professional for accurate estimations.

3. Record-Keeping

Be sure to keep track of all your income, expenses, invoices, and receipts. This will make it easier to calculate your taxable income and claim deductions when the time comes. Numerous digital tools and apps are available to simplify record-keeping and expense tracking.

Maximizing Deductions

Self-employed individuals can take advantage of various deductions to reduce their taxable income, ultimately lowering their tax liability. Here are some common deductions self-employed folks should explore:

1. Home Office

If you use a portion of your home exclusively for business purposes, you might be eligible for the home office deduction. This deduction allows you to write off a percentage of your home office repairs, utilities, and other related expenses.  

2. Business Expenses

For a business expense to be deductible, it must be both ordinary and necessary to the business. Per the IRS, “An ordinary expense is one that is common and accepted in your industry. A necessary expense is one that is helpful and appropriate for your trade or business.” It’s important to keep in mind that even though some expenses may be both ordinary and necessary, they may not be eligible for a deduction. That’s why it’s essential to maintain receipts and document the business purpose of each expense. It can be tempting to overestimate your eligible expenses, but there may be consequences for doing so. Not only do you risk underpaying your taxes, but it could also distort your overall financial picture. This could have an impact on things like getting a mortgage.

3. Self-Employment Tax

As mentioned earlier, self-employed individuals are generally responsible for the SE tax, which includes both the employee and employer portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes. The good news is that you can deduct one-half of the SE tax when calculating your adjusted gross income.

4. Self-Employed Health Insurance

With the Small Business Jobs Act self-employed individuals may deduct up to 100% of their insurance premium. This includes premiums that cover the self-employed individual and their families. Be careful, not all premiums will be considered tax deductible so reach out to your advisor for guidance. 

Consulting a Tax Professional

Given the complexity of being self-employed when it comes to taxes, it’s wise to work with a tax professional. A tax expert can help you navigate the intricacies of tax law, help you take advantage of all available deductions, and provide guidance on estimated tax payments. 

As a recap, being self-employed offers a world of opportunities, but it also requires diligent financial management, especially when it comes to taxes. By understanding your tax obligations, making timely estimated tax payments, keeping meticulous records, and maximizing deductions, you can set yourself up for financial success. Remember, consulting a tax professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation, making tax season a less daunting experience. If you’re on the other end of the spectrum as a small business owner and are looking to hire a freelancer or independent contractor, we also have a guide to help you make the right choice! Remember to prepare for tax season today with your local Padgett advisor. Find your local office here!

Hiring teens for the summer? Here’s how

Each May and June, millions of teenagers begin their search for a summer job. Before hiring teens for any summertime help, it’s a good idea to be aware of the Federal and State laws governing youth in the workplace. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) youth employment provisions are designed to protect young workers by limiting the types of jobs and the number of hours they may work, based on the age of the minor. The following provisions apply to nonagricultural occupations:

18 Years of Age: Once a youth reaches 18, the Federal child labor provisions no longer apply to them — they can work any job for any number of hours. Remember that states have their own labor laws, so be sure to check your state’s work laws in non-agricultural work

16 & 17 Years of Age: Under the FLSA 16- and 17-year olds may work on any day for any number of hours. However, individual states may limit the hours or the times of day that anyone under the age of 18 may work. Also, all youth under the age of 18 are prohibited from working any non-farm jobs deemed hazardous.

14 & 15 Years of Age: 14- and 15-year-olds may work:

  • Non-school hours
  • 3 hours on a school day
  • 18 hours in a school week
  • 8 hours on a non-school day
  • 40 hours in a non-school week
  • Between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (except June 1-Labor Day when hours are extended to 9 p.m.)

Alert to parents who hire their children

There’s a lot to be said for hiring family members to work in your business. Hiring your children won’t only provide them with spending money…your business may obtain a deduction for their wages as well.

Since there’s no specific exception from income tax withholding for wages you pay to family members, you’ll generally have to withhold income taxes from the wages you pay them. However, you’ll be relieved from some FICA taxes and federal (and perhaps even state) unemployment taxes, depending on the type of entity and ownership makeup.

Keep in mind, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may question the validity of wages if the recipient is on record as a young child. Unless you can provide acceptable detail such as date of birth and job responsibilities, your child may not be given credit for the correct amount of wages.

In fact, the information obtained may be given to the IRS or the Department of Justice for investigating and prosecuting violations of the Social Security Act. Matching programs compare the SSA’s records with those of other Federal, State, and local agencies, which are often used to find or prove that a person qualifies for benefits paid by the Federal government.

Rule of thumb: Put your child on the payroll only if there is a legitimate job offering with responsibilities that are within the child’s capability…and then, make sure that your child does the work!

If you are looking into hiring teens or your own children, a Padgett business advisor can help you make sure you’re following the regulations for their schedule and making the most of available tax deductions. Find a location near you today.

10 reasons your 2022 tax refund may be lower

Have you already filed your 2022 tax return? If so, you may have noticed that your refund is lower than it was in 2020 or 2021. As we return to the “new normal” after the COVID-19 pandemic, many tax credits and deductions from the last two years are no longer available in tax year 2022. This may be contributing to a smaller tax refund or a larger balance due.    

Here are some of the key differences to keep in mind.

For individuals:

  • Economic Impact Payments (EIP): Also known as stimulus checks, EIPs were not issued to taxpayers in 2022. You likely claimed a tax credit on your 2020 or 2021 tax return if you were eligible for a stimulus payment but didn’t receive it.   
  • Child tax Credits: For 2022, the credit is now worth $2,000 per child, down from $3,000 per child and $3,600 for children under age six in 2020 and 2021. This credit now ends when your child reaches age 16 rather than 17. This could further reduce the amount of credit you receive.  
  • Child and Dependent Care Assistance Credit: In 2021, this credit was refundable and taxpayers whose adjusted gross income (AGI) was less than $125,000 were eligible for the maximum credit of 50% of eligible expenses paid. In 2022, the maximum percentage dropped to 35%. The full credit is only available to taxpayers with AGI $15,000 or less. The credit is now nonrefundable, meaning it’s limited to the amount of tax you owe. 
  • Earned Income Tax Credit: This credit has reverted to pre-pandemic rates of 7.65% instead of the increased amount of 15.3% in the last two years. The eligibility ceiling has also decreased to $7,320.  
  • Charitable contributions for non-itemizers: In 2020 & 2021, a $300 per person deduction was available to taxpayers who made a qualified charitable donation and did not itemize. For 2022, only taxpayers who itemize can deduct charitable donations. 
  • Employer-Provided Child Care: This year, only $5,000 in employer provided childcare is excluded from your taxable income on the Cafeteria Plan. This is a decrease from the $10,500 that was excluded from income in previous years. This means more of your income is taxable in 2022, which could result in a lower tax refund. 
  • Healthcare Premium Tax Credit: This is another credit that has reverted to pre-pandemic rules. In the past few years, the credit expanded, allowing individuals on unemployment to qualify. However, in 2022, the eligibility is based on household income in comparison to the federal poverty limit. If you were eligible for the credit before, your eligibility may have changed. 

For businesses:

As a business owner, you may also face an increase in taxable income from your business activity. There are a few reasons for this, including: 

  • COVID-19 Employer Payroll Credits and loan forgiveness (including Employee Retention Credits, Paycheck Protection Program and Paid Sick and Family Leave Credits): During the pandemic, several credits, loans and benefit programs were available to businesses. In 2022, many of those pandemic relief efforts have expired.  
  • Business Interest Expense Limits: The calculation for the limitation has changed in 2022 and may result in less of a deduction for interest expense.  
  • Corporate charitable deduction limits: The charitable contribution limit has reverted to pre-pandemic rules. In 2022, corporations are limited to a charitable deduction of no more than 10% of their taxable income. This is down from the 25% limit imposed in 2020 and 2021.  

Are you unsure you’re getting your maximum tax refund or feeling surprised by your tax results? That may be a sign that your tax professional isn’t right for you. Padgett’s nationwide network of CPAs and EAs can help, so find a location near you today! 

Employee gifts: the must-know tax rules

How do you show your employees you appreciate their hard work? If you choose to give your staff gifts or throw them a party, remember that only certain types of gifts are tax deductible. Here’s a quick overview of some employee gift options to help you show your appreciation: 

Employee Gifts:

The IRS doesn’t recognize non-cash gifts of nominal value as taxable income, but rather as a de minimis fringe benefit (one in which the value and number of times it’s given is so small, accounting for it isn’t practical). But cash or a cash equivalent — like gift certificates or gift cards, or prepaid cards — are taxable employee gifts. Regardless of the amount, cash gifts must be included in the employee’s wages.

However, depending on circumstances, the IRS states that a gift certificate for a specific item can be considered a de minimis fringe benefit. The item must be one “that is minimal in value, provided infrequently, and is administratively impractical to account for.” 

Parties:

Thinking of throwing an office party? Remember, the food is fully deductible only if the party is for the benefit of employees and their families. Historically, if clients, independent contractors, or customers attend the soirée, then entertainment rules apply and only 50% of the food and beverage costs associated with these partygoers are deductible (and this applies even if you hold the party virtually). Don’t get too lavish! The IRS always keeps an eye on business deductions and the costs associated with an extravagant event. 

Thinking of showing your thanks with some employee gifts this year? Reach out to our trusted network of accountants, tax experts and business advisors at Padgett so we can help ensure your employees benefit from the present and you make the most of the available tax deductions. Find an office near you today!

MFJ vs MFS: filing options for married taxpayers

If you’re married, you may not be aware of your tax filing options and assume that filing a return jointly with your spouse is the only choice available to you. In fact, married taxpayers can file separate returns. It’s tricky, though. There are specific situations where filing separately makes sense, and other times where it doesn’t. It’s important to choose the right method, because once you file jointly, you can’t amend your return to filing separately.    

There are no rules of thumb on when it makes sense for married taxpayers to file separately. Although in most cases, filing jointly will produce the most beneficial results, tax law has grown so complex that a great number of factors need to be considered. So what’s the real difference between the two options?   

Married Filing Jointly (MFJ)

Married filing jointly means that you and your spouse will file just one tax return, with income and deductions for both of you. The IRS usually encourages couples to file jointly. You’ll usually get a lower tax rate this way, and the IRS offers some tax breaks for joint returns. Some common benefits available to joint filers include:  

  • Earned Income Credit (EIC)
  • Dependent care credit 
  • Tuition credits
  • Child-care credits (unless you lived apart from July to December)
  • American Opportunity Credit
  • Lifetime Learning Credit for education expenses
  • Student interest loan deductions
  • More limited IRS contribution deduction
  • Lower limit on capital losses  

If you live in a community property state, such as Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, or Wisconsin, a joint return is also much more convenient, as it avoids some tricky tax rules on separate returns.   

Married Filing Separately (MFS)  

There are some cases where filing separately may be a better choice for married taxpayers. Filing separately means that you will each file your own tax return and keep your income and deductions separate from your spouse’s.    

You may want to file separate returns if it means some deductions become available. For example, the spouse with the lower income may be eligible for a medical expense deduction if their income is kept separate, but not if it’s combined. Keep in mind, your filing status selection on your federal return could impact your state income tax return. Before finalizing your decision, be sure to consider the impact to both your federal and state returns.  

There are a few reasons to file separately even if doing so means you collectively pay more tax or get less of a refund. One is when you and your spouse keep separate finances as a rule. Another is to avoid being liable for each other’s amounts due. When filing jointly, the IRS can come after either of you to collect the full amount. And remember, if you’re filing separately and need to extend, you’ll need to each file your own extension as well.

How to choose?

The best way for married taxpayers to know for sure which method of filing is the best fit is to prepare the return both ways and compare the results. This means you’d have to prepare three returns—the joint return, and two separate returns. But who has time for that?  

Happily, most tax professionals can use their software, along with their knowledge of tax law and how it applies to unique separate filing situations, to determine whether it’s likely that filing separately would be better from a tax due or refund perspective. If your preparer isn’t offering this service, you might be missing out!     

If you want to be sure you’re not leaving tax money on the table, turn to a tax professional to help you file. Padgett’s network of CPAs and EAs can help you determine which method of filing is the best fit so you don’t have to worry. Find a location near you today!  

6 tax deductions self-employed workers should know

There are a host of tax deductions available to self-employed individuals that can generate real savings when filing your tax return. As you prepare to file your 2022 taxes, here are a few deductions you should be mindful of:    

  1. Home office expenses: If you’re using an area of your home regularly and solely for business, you may be able to deduct expenses for a home office from your taxable business income.     

  2. Office supplies: Hang on to those receipts for pens, paper and printer ink as you may be eligible to deduct the total cost of your office supplies.   

  3. Social Security: Remember that if you’re self-employed, you’ll be paying more Social Security taxes than if you were on the payroll of a company. However, you can deduct half of these taxes on your return.  

  4. Vehicle expenses: If you use your vehicle for business, you can deduct either the actual expenses or the standard mileage rate, based on the business use of the vehicle. For the first half of 2022, the standard mileage rate is 58.5 cents per mile, and it increased to 62.5 cents per mile for the second half of the year.

  5. Section 179: This part of the tax code allows profitable business owners the opportunity to deduct up to the full cost of qualifying capital assets — like furniture, equipment and technology — immediately rather than depreciating them throughout their use. Any unused deductions can be carried forward and put toward next year’s tax return.  

  6. Food and beverages: The stimulus bill passed in December 2020 changed the deduction for meals, allowing businesses to deduct 100 percent of their qualifying food and beverage expenses if purchased from a restaurant in 2022.    

Curious about what deductions you might be eligible for on your 2022 tax return? Padgett’s talented network of CPAs, EAs and tax professionals near you can help navigate the confusing world of tax planning and filing. Find an office near you today! 

Recap: our top 10 tax tips of 2022

It’s hard to believe that 2022 is already coming to an end!  We’ve covered a lot of tax tips in the past year. Here’s a quick recap of some topics you may need to discuss with your tax advisor and some tips for how best to prepare for that discussion: 

  1. Make sure you check your mail for important tax documents that will be coming out soon, like W-2s and 1099s. Check out our checklist for an idea of what you need to keep on hand. 

  2. Are you self-employed? Ask your tax preparer about some deductions you may be eligible for, such as home office expenses, vehicle expenses, and qualifying food and drink expenses. 

  3. If you’re married, make sure you discuss your filing options with your spouse and your tax preparer, so that you can determine whether it’s better to file a joint return or separate ones. You’ll also need to make sure your information and withholding is up to date, if you were married recently.

  4. Own a vacation home, Airbnb or VRBO property? Be sure to discuss that rental income with your tax preparer to make sure you’re following the “mixed-use” property tax rules.

  5. Whether you won or lost, if you gambled this year, make sure to keep good records and bring your documents to your tax preparer. Gambling winnings are often taxable income, and you may receive a Form W-2G if you earned money. But if you didn’t, your losses could be tax deductible with proper documentation.

  6. If you’re expecting a large tax refund, it may be worth considering whether or not that’s actually a good thing. A large refund can be useful if those funds are handled responsibly. However, it may mean you’re withholding more than you should from your regular paycheck. You may want to reevaluate your withholding after tax time.

  7. Ask your tax preparer about your eligibility for certain education tax credits, if you or a dependent is enrolled at an eligible educational institution. Don’t forget to factor scholarships or student loans into your budget and find out what could be taxable—or deductible!

  8. If you have business travel coming up soon, make sure to talk to your tax advisor about how you could mix some leisure time in with your business travel and still get some tax deductions

  9. Considering purchasing an electric vehicle soon? There have been some changes to the Clean Vehicle Credit, so make sure to check the rules regarding your eligibility and discuss the details of the purchase with your tax professional. 

  10. Opting for non-cash employee gifts this holiday season is one way to help ensure the gift is considered a de minimis fringe benefit, rather than taxable income for your staff. You may also be eligible for some tax deductions on gift and party expenses, so as always, check with your tax preparer. 

The best thing you can do to save money on your taxes is to start working with a tax advisor early. Be sure to work with them throughout the year on your tax planning. A good tax advisor can help you identify opportunities to save money, but you have to make sure you have time to implement their suggestions before it’s too late.  

If you don’t have a tax professional yet, or yours isn’t a good fit, we can help. Padgett’s nationwide network of CPAs and EAs are ready to lend a hand. Find an office near you today! 

We encourage you to contact us with any questions.

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