DEAR SUN SPOTS: Androscoggin Habitat for Humanity is in need of skilled and unskilled volunteer labor at our newest construction site on Sylvan Avenue in Lewiston. To volunteer, we ask that you commit to at least a two-hour shift between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Our job site is open Tuesday through Saturday.
You may volunteer for as many or as few shifts as you like. It’s an inspiring experience that offers many personal rewards. To volunteer, please call or email me. Give back, give thanks, and get much more back. — Kim Veilleux, androhabitat@roadrunner.com, 786-2598
DEAR SUN SPOTS: First I want to start by saying I am an avid reader of your column; it’s one of the most informative in the Sun Journal. I’m hoping you might be able to help me.
I owned a restaurant here in Maine that I closed down more than 12 years ago. I still get requests on occasion from the IRS regarding business income, etc., for years after my restaurant closed. I mail back their request stating that there wasn’t any income, etc., and state the date that the business closed; but to no avail — they still manage to send requests.
I also have received on occasion some request from the state. I still have all records in storage (state and federal income tax, sales tax, payroll, etc). Legally, how long do you need to keep these records for both state and federal? I’d like to dispose of them but never know when I might receive another request. Thank you. — No Name via email
ANSWER: According to www.irs.gov, employment records should be kept for four years. There is more information on record-keeping at the IRS site at http://tinyurl.com/bcn4h that you may find useful on deciding on your other records.
Most resources suggest hanging on to annual tax returns, both personal and business, indefinitely, but some supporting documentation can be tossed. The IRS site, which really is very helpful, adds this caveat: “When your records are no longer needed for tax purposes, do not discard them until you check to see if you have to keep them longer for other purposes. For example, your insurance company or creditors may require you to keep them longer than the IRS does.”
Sun Spots is puzzled as to why you are still getting queries after all this time. Is there still a restaurant in your old location or do you own the building? That could lead to some confusion.
You could try sending both the Maine Revenue Service and the IRS an official letter stating the date of the business’ closing (include your old employer tax ID number) and ask that this information be placed in your file so you will not be pestered. Now that more services are being computerized, it’s easier for employees see the flag stating that the business is defunct.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Tuesday, June 14, is Flag Day, with a special ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park starting at 6 p.m., sponsored by the Veterans Council.
We will be having a American flag disposal ceremony, so you may bring older yours to the park.
I will emcee the program, which will include Veterans Council Chairman Ray Boulet, chaplain Jerry DerBoghosian; flag disposal officer Richard Doucette; Sgt. at Arms Willie Danforth, burning official Maurice Fournier and singer Maurice Marquis.
All Posts and Auxiliaries should participate in this ceremony to honor our American flag. Other organizations may also participate with a flag.
For more information please call Ray Boulet at 784-0101 or me. — Bert Dutil, badutil32@yahoo.com, 786-2305
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