Drivers across Georgia are continuing to feel the pinch as auto insurance costs remain among the highest in the country.
As summer approaches, many families across Georgia are reworking their vacation plans as rising costs continue to strain household budgets.
The Internal Revenue Service is reminding taxpayers that the April 15 filing deadline is just days away and is encouraging anyone who still needs to file to take advantage of free tools and resources available at IRS.gov.
A proposed bill in Georgia could help return billions of dollars in unclaimed money to residents, but the effort is facing challenges at the State Capitol.
Lawmakers say the state is currently holding more than $3 billion in unclaimed property, which includes things like uncashed checks, old bank accounts, refunds, and other funds that belong to individuals.
The legislation would allow the Georgia Department of Revenue to automatically match records and send checks directly to residents, especially for smaller amounts, without requiring people to file a claim.
Supporters say the goal is to make it easier for Georgians to get their money back faster, cutting down on paperwork and making the process more efficient. However, the proposal has raised concerns among some lawmakers because parts of the bill could allow the state to take ownership of certain funds if they remain unclaimed for long periods of time.
The bill has already passed the State Senate but has stalled in a House committee, leaving its future uncertain as the legislative session continues.
The Internal Revenue Service has announced extended weekly office hours at more than 200 Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the country to give taxpayers more time to receive in-person help during filing season. The expanded weekday hours will remain in place through Thursday, April 30.
Taxpayers can find out whether a nearby Taxpayer Assistance Center is offering extended hours by using the TAC Locator tool on IRS.gov. The online tool provides office locations, directions, available services, and information about extended hours.
In addition to longer weekday hours, many Taxpayer Assistance Centers will also be open on select Saturdays through June 2026. During those Saturday hours, taxpayers can access all regularly available TAC services except for making cash payments. The IRS encourages taxpayers to check the website regularly because participating locations and available hours may change without notice.
Drivers across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are feeling the squeeze as car insurance premiums continue rising across Georgia, adding another strain to household budgets.