These cash refunds are part of the financial measures adopted by the authorities in order to provide support to numerous families.

The IRS will proceed to deposit a 2,000-dollar refund into the following bank accounts

The Child Tax Credit (CTC) represents one of the tax benefits administered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for the purpose of financially assisting families that meet the requirements.

Only those who have fulfilled the tax obligation of filing their tax return during the established season may benefit.

According to the information provided on the official IRS website, the maximum amount of this credit is up to 2,000 dollars per qualifying child. It is important to note that this sum is subject to various tax factors.

All the criteria that Child Tax Credit beneficiaries must satisfy

For a citizen to be considered eligible, it is essential that the taxpayer include the name and Social Security Number of each dependent on their tax return. Likewise, they must meet the following conditions:

• The child must be under 17 years of age as of December 31.
• Must have a valid family relationship with the taxpayer, such as child, stepchild, adopted child, sibling, stepsibling, half-sibling, grandchild, nephew, or niece.
• The child must not have provided more than half of their own support during the year.
• The taxpayer must claim the child as a dependent on their federal return.
• The child cannot file a joint return, except if it is only to receive a refund.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident.
• Must have lived with the taxpayer for more than half the year.
• To receive the refundable portion, the taxpayer must have at least 2,500 dollars in earned income.

The credit is gradually reduced starting at 200,000 dollars of modified adjusted gross income, or 400,000 dollars if it is a married couple filing jointly.

In cases like this, if the authorities determine that a benefits garnishment is the next action to take, Social Security retirement benefits -for example- may be subject to periodic deductions until the full outstanding balance is paid.

IRS will be able to seize up to 15% of SSA benefits from these citizens and foreigners

The tax agency states in an official publication that, through the Federal Payment Levy Program (FPLP), the IRS is authorized to seize up to 15% of the monthly benefits subject to Social Security Title II, and the measure will remain in effect until the garnishment is resolved or the obligation is definitively paid.

It is important to note that, before carrying out this measure, a bill titled “Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Your Right to a Hearing” is sent.

Upon receiving it, it is important to make contact within 30 days to work on alternatives that allow the outstanding amount to be paid without resorting to garnishment.

In what situations could the IRS suspend the seizure of 15% of benefits

The Internal Revenue Code (IRC) establishes that this measure must be lifted when

• The debt was paid in full
• The collection period ended before the levy was issued
• Releasing the levy helps the taxpayer pay their taxes
• An Installment Agreement was signed, and the conditions prevent the levy from continuing
• The levy created an economic hardship and must be released because it prevents the taxpayer from paying basic living expenses
• The levy was issued improperly

It is important to always respond to official collection notices, even when you are certain that you do not owe the taxes listed as outstanding.

The provision is part of federal law and authorizes the State Department to act when the IRS certifies that a taxpayer has a seriously delinquent tax debt.

In those cases, the application for a new passport may be rejected and, in certain circumstances, an already valid document may also be revoked.

What debt can make the United States block your passport?

According to the IRS, a person may be certified for having a “seriously delinquent tax debt” when they meet certain legal conditions.

For 2026, the amount exceeds USD 66,000, including taxes, interest, and penalties. However, it is not enough to simply owe that sum: in addition, the IRS must have filed a tax lien or started a levy process to collect the debt.

Once the certification is made, the agency notifies the State Department, which can:

• Deny the issuance of a new passport.
• Reject the renewal of the document.
• Revoke a valid passport, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Who will not be affected by this IRS measure

Not all taxpayers with tax debts are covered by the rule.

The IRS explains that it will not certify those who:

• Maintain an approved payment plan and are up to date.
• Have reached an Offer in Compromise accepted by the agency.
• Have the collection process suspended due to certain legal protections.
• Are in bankruptcy proceedings.
• Have been declared in economic hardship, so the debt is considered temporarily uncollectible.
• Are located in a federal disaster area or meet other exceptions provided by law.

What happens if the passport has already been blocked due to an IRS debt

When the IRS certifies a seriously delinquent debt, the taxpayer receives a CP508C Notice, informing them that the case was referred to the State Department.

To reverse that situation, the agency states that it is necessary to fully resolve the debt or reach a payment alternative accepted by the IRS. Once the situation is regularized, the agency notifies the State Department so it can remove the corresponding certification.

In cases of people who are already outside the United States, the State Department may issue a passport with limited validity that allows them to return to the country, although it will not issue a full passport until the tax issue is resolved.

How to avoid the Government blocking the passport

The IRS recommends acting before the debt is certified. Among the main alternatives to avoid restrictions on the passport are:

• Pay the debt in full.
• Request and comply with an IRS-approved payment plan.
• Access an Offer in Compromise, when applicable.
• Resolve any pending tax dispute before the certification is sent to the State Department.

These reviews may affect beneficiaries of SSDI and SSI, especially when the Social Security Administration needs to update information about their health condition, medical treatments, or work capacity.

The Government will visit house by house to verify compliance with the medical requirements

The measure is known as Continuing Disability Review or continuous disability review, a mandatory procedure that allows the Social Security Administration to determine whether a person remains eligible to receive disability payments.

The SSA reports that the law requires a medical review to be carried out at least once every three years. However, if the medical condition is not expected to improve, the review may be conducted every five to seven years.

These reviews may apply to people who receive:

• SSDI, the Social Security Disability Insurance, intended for workers who contributed to the system and became disabled.
• SSI, the Supplemental Security Income, aimed at low-income people, older adults or people with disabilities who meet financial requirements.

Are the visits automatic?

Disability reviews do not mean that all beneficiaries will automatically receive a home visit. The Social Security Administration usually communicates through official forms, such as SSA-454 or SSA-455, to request updated information about the beneficiary’s health, treatments, doctors, hospitals, medications and work activity.

Currently, some beneficiaries can complete the review report online from their personal my Social Security account. The SSA also allows the form to be sent by mail, fax, or uploaded digitally.

After receiving the report, the SSA may send the case to an examiner at Disability Determination Services (DDS), who may request more information or schedule a medical exam if deemed necessary.

Payments are suspended for all retirees and pensioners who delay this procedure

Ignoring a review can cause serious consequences. If the person does not complete the forms, does not provide medical information, or does not attend a required evaluation, the SSA may not have sufficient data to confirm eligibility. This can lead to:

• Temporary suspension of benefits.
• Loss of payments.
• More in-depth review of the case.
• Need to submit appeals or additional documentation.

The initiative is designed to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, making these commemorative quarters one of the most anticipated coin releases of the year.

Company offers a $2,500 reward for a special July 4 quarter

The Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) announced that it will award $2,500 to the first paying member who submits one of the new July 4 quarters for grading.

To qualify, participants must have an active NGC membership, with collector memberships starting at $35 per year. The company said the promotion is intended to recognize the historic coin release and encourage collectors to search for the new commemorative quarters as they enter circulation.

Because the reward is limited to the first eligible paying member, collectors hoping to claim the prize will need to locate one of the coins quickly and submit it to NGC for grading.

U.S. Mint releases 250,000 July 4 quarters into circulation

According to the U.S. Mint, a total of 250,000 quarters featuring a special “July 4th” inscription are being released ahead of Independence Day.

Rather than being distributed separately, the commemorative coins will be randomly mixed with other 2026 Declaration of Independence Quarters before being shipped to banks and financial institutions across the country. That means anyone receiving change could potentially come across one of the special quarters.

How to identify the July 4 quarter

Collectors can recognize the commemorative coin by its unique design.

On the front (obverse), the quarter features:

• The dual date 1776–2026
• The inscription “July 4th”
• A portrait of Thomas Jefferson, principal author of the Declaration of Independence and the third president of the United States

On the back (reverse), the design includes:

• The Liberty Bell in the act of ringing
• The inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
• LIBERTY
• QUARTER DOLLAR
• THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

With only 250,000 special July 4 quarters entering circulation and a $2,500 reward available to the first qualifying NGC member who submits one for grading, collectors are expected to pay close attention to every quarter they receive in the coming weeks.

Each month, the SSA distributes benefits on different days depending on the type of benefit and, in many cases, when a person first became eligible. July follows that same schedule, with retirees, survivors, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries receiving payments throughout the month.

Who is receiving a Social Security payment on July 2?

The July 2 payment is reserved for two groups of beneficiaries:

• People who started receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997.
• Individuals who receive both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and another Social Security benefit, such as retirement, survivor, or SSDI payments.

These beneficiaries will receive their Social Security payment one day earlier than usual because the regular payment date falls close to the Independence Day holiday.

Why is the payment being sent on July 2 instead of July 3?

Normally, these Social Security benefits are paid on the third day of the month. However, because July 3 is being observed in connection with the Independence Day holiday schedule, the SSA moved the payment to the previous business day.

The agency follows this policy whenever a scheduled payment date falls on a federal holiday or weekend, ensuring beneficiaries receive their money without delay.

July 2026 Social Security payment schedule

According to the SSA’s official calendar, Social Security and SSI benefits will be distributed on the following dates in July 2026:

• July 1 (Wednesday): Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments.
• July 2 (Thursday): Social Security beneficiaries who began receiving benefits before May 1997 and recipients who also receive SSI.
• July 8 (Wednesday): Retirement, survivor, and SSDI beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
• July 15 (Wednesday): Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th.
• July 22 (Wednesday): Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st.
• July 31 (Friday): SSI payment for August, issued early because August 1 falls on a weekend.

How the SSA sends monthly benefits

The Social Security Administration now delivers monthly benefits electronically through direct deposit or the Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®.

Paper checks are no longer issued as part of the agency’s standard payment process. Beneficiaries who previously relied on mailed checks must have an approved electronic payment method on file to continue receiving their monthly benefits.

The agency establishes a “safe harbor” (safe harbor) that would allow these contributions to be exempt from filing a gift tax return as long as the requirements are met.

What is the safe harbor?

What the IRS determines with this new principle is that the contributions will be treated as completed gifts because they do not constitute a future interest and may qualify for the annual gift tax exclusion. Therefore, it will not be necessary to file a gift tax return.

Who does this new rule benefit?

This new rule benefits those who meet these conditions:

• It is a natural person.
• Makes contributions of cash.
• The contribution is made to a beneficiary under 18 years old.

Therefore, this can benefit parents, grandparents, and other relatives.

What is the contribution limit?

A general contribution limit of 5,000 dollars per year may be deposited, an amount that will begin to be adjusted for inflation in 2028.

For this amount, the federal initial deposit of 1,000 dollars for the pilot program does not count, nor do certain government contributions.

Trump Accounts are savings and investment accounts created under the Working Families Tax Cuts law for American minors. Details to keep in mind:

• For minors under 18 years old.
• No contributions can be received before July 4.
• The Government deposits 1,000 dollars for certain eligible children born between 2025 and 2028.
• Relatives and other people may make additional contributions.

The increase will not be uniform across the country. Although the federal minimum wage remains USD 7.25 per hour, several states and local governments have their own rules and set higher amounts, which are updated each year based on inflation or the cost of living.

Who will receive an automatic minimum wage increase starting in July?

The increase will benefit workers who carry out their tasks in cities and counties that will update their minimum wages on July 1.

In these cases, it will not be necessary to submit applications or complete forms: employers must automatically apply the new hourly rate on their employees’ payroll.

Among the main jurisdictions that will raise the minimum wage are:

• Alameda: USD 17.76 per hour.
• Berkeley: USD 19.61 per hour.
• Emeryville: USD 20.34 per hour.
• Fremont: USD 18.05 per hour.
• City of Los Angeles: USD 18.42 per hour.
• Los Angeles County (unincorporated areas): USD 18.47 per hour.
• Malibu: USD 17.91 per hour.
• Milpitas: USD 18.50 per hour.
• Pasadena: USD 18.57 per hour.
• San Francisco: USD 19.61 per hour.
• Santa Monica: USD 18.47 per hour.

Why is the minimum wage rising in these U.S. cities?

Most of these increases respond to local ordinances that establish periodic reviews of the minimum wage using inflation or the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

This means that, although California has maintained a state minimum wage of USD 16.90 per hour since January 2026, several cities set higher amounts to offset the higher cost of living in their jurisdictions.

Will all workers in the United States receive the increase?

No. The adjustment only applies to those who work in the cities and counties where a minimum wage update takes effect.

In addition, there are sectors with specific regulations. For example, some workers in hotels, hospitality, fast food, and health care are subject to different wage scales that may exceed the general minimum wage.

In all cases, employers must pay the highest applicable rate, whether it is set by state law or by local regulations.

The initiative was announced by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and applies to eligible babies born during a specific period in 2026. Parents will not need to submit any additional paperwork or pay extra fees to receive the commemorative version.

Who will receive the special Social Security cards?

According to the SSA, babies born in the United States between July 2 and December 31, 2026, will automatically receive the special Social Security card through the Enumeration at Birth program. The program assigns a Social Security number when parents request one as part of the birth registration process.

The commemorative card includes the Freedom 250 logo honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States. Although the design is different, the card has the same legal validity as every other Social Security card issued by the SSA.

Do parents need to apply for the commemorative Social Security card?

Parents do not need to complete a separate application or request the commemorative design. Eligible newborns will receive it automatically if a Social Security number is requested through the standard birth registration process.

The SSA also noted that if the commemorative card is ever lost and a replacement is requested, the replacement will be issued as a standard Social Security card rather than the Freedom 250 edition.

Why is the SSA issuing these commemorative cards?

The special Social Security cards are part of the federal government’s recognition of America’s 250th birthday, which will be celebrated throughout 2026. The Freedom 250 design commemorates the historic milestone while allowing millions of eligible newborns to receive a unique version of one of the nation’s most important identification documents.

The initiative does not change Social Security eligibility, benefits, or application requirements. It only introduces a commemorative design for qualifying newborns born during the designated period.

The initiative, formalized through HB 2038, also known as the “DOCTOR Act”, aims to address critical vacancies, reduce waiting lists, and prevent the collapse of hospitals in rural areas and mid-sized cities in the state.

This change is significant: for the first time, the medical Green Card is no longer obligatorily tied to a traditional residency in Texas and is replaced by a prolonged supervision system.

What provisions are set by the recent HB 2038 legislation in Texas

The regulation, which was approved in December 2025, allows doctors with international training to practice under an alternative scheme:

This change responds to two structural factors: the aging of the current medical workforce and sustained population growth, especially in the south of the state and in rural areas.

Regarding the profile of the professionals, The Texas Tribune noted:

“Of the 100,000 licensed doctors in Texas, approximately one quarter were trained outside the United States, which matches the national proportion. It is unclear how many of them actually practice as doctors.”

Why was this resolution adopted in Texas

Unlike other states, Texas presents a critical combination:

• Rapid population growth.
• An increase in the elderly population.
• Lack of specialists in general medicine, pediatrics, and community health.
• Difficulty attracting doctors to areas far from large cities.

Legislator Tom Oliverson explained the essence of the problem: “Basically, there are individuals willing to come and practice medicine in our state and they are capable of doing so. All of these people are doctors. However, they cannot practice here or the process is so arduous that they decided not to.”

Requirements needed for a foreign doctor to practice in Texas

The law does not automatically grant authorization to just any professional. Doctors must meet both formal and technical requirements, including:

• Have five years of prior experience.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English.
• Have no disciplinary record.
• Pass the required licensing exams in the United States.
• Have a specific job offer in Texas.

This approach aims to avoid uncontrolled relaxation and preserve minimum standards in the quality of care.

This option is presented by the Government of Mexico as a way to avoid the 1% tax that the One Big Beautiful Bill tax reform applies to remittances backed by physical instruments, such as cash or money orders.

To process it from the United States, the requirement Mexico demands is the presentation of all the documents included in the official list released by the authorities.

FINABIEN card: official and complete list of documents that must be presented to process it in the United States

According to what was reported by the Mexican authorities, the FINABIEN USA card can be requested at any of Mexico’s 53 consulates and, for the process to be enabled, the following must be presented

• Mexican or American identification, such as INE, passport, consular ID card, or Mexican or U.S. driver’s license.
• Email address.
• Valid address in the United States.
• Cell phone number.

How to activate the FINABIEN card

If you have not registered, during the process you must select the “Do you already have a physical card?” option and follow the steps for activation.

If you have already registered and have an account, you must log in to the Financiera para el Bienestar App and then go to the accounts section, locate the card, and confirm that the “Active card” button is green.

If you cannot find it, in the “accounts” section, the user will need to go to “Do you already have a physical card? Add it here” and enter the details.

FINABIEN card: how much money can be sent and what fee is charged

This prepaid Visa allows transfers of up to 2,500 dollars per day for USD 2.99 when sent to Mexico.

The maximum balance allowed is USD 20,000, and up to USD 15,000 in monthly transfers are permitted.

All limits and fees can be checked by clicking here.

How to use the FINABIEN card

The authorities indicate that there are two ways to send money to another FINABIEN account

• By contact, using a phone number
• Through quick transfer to cards

1- By contact

• Locate the card.
• Tap the “Send money” option.
• Select as appropriate “To your contacts in Mexico” or “To your contacts USA”.
• Search for the contact or add it manually.
• Select the country where the contact is located and add an alias.
• Enter the amount and concept, and then select the “Continue” option.
• Confirm the information and finally press “Send money”.

2- By quick transfer between cards

• Locate the card.
• Tap the “Send money” option.
• Select “Between cards”.
• Choose “Quick transfer to cards”.
• Fill in the 16 digits of the destination card.
• Enter the amount, concept, and then select the “Continue” option.
• Confirm the information and finally press “Send money”.

Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), a firm that certifies the authenticity and condition of coins, launched the reward to celebrate the Mint’s release. The bonus is not a purchase of the piece: the graded coin is returned to the first person who sends it in.

What is the special coin like and why is it so sought after?

The piece is part of the Declaration of Independence Quarters series and adds a “July 4th” mark next to the portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse. It does not have a mint mark, unlike the standard versions minted in Philadelphia or Denver.

The reverse shows the Liberty Bell and the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, LIBERTY, QUARTER DOLLAR, and THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE. The 250,000 units were randomly mixed with other quarters from the same series before reaching banks across the country.

To identify it, look for:

• The “July 4th” legend to the left of Jefferson’s portrait.
• The complete absence of a mint mark (no P or D).
• The Liberty Bell design on the reverse.

How do you enter for the NGC reward?

To qualify for the $2,500 bonus, you need a paid NGC collector membership, which currently starts at $39 per year. NGC dealers are excluded from the competition.

Only the first member to send the coin in for grading keeps the prize. The rest of those interested can still request the special America250 certification label, although without the cash bonus.

The change does not mean an increase in benefits, but rather an advance of payments to avoid delays when the usual date coincides with a holiday or a weekend.

As happens every year, the SSA adjusts the calendar to ensure that funds are available on time and in the proper manner.

Who will receive the Social Security payment earlier than expected?

The beneficiaries who started collecting Social Security before May 1997 will be one of the groups affected by the change.

Normally, this group receives the deposit on the 3rd day of each month. However, since this year the date is affected by the July 4 holiday, the payment will be moved up to Thursday, July 2.

In addition, those who receive both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security (retirement, survivors, or SSDI) benefits will also receive that second deposit on July 2.

Who will receive two Social Security payments in July?

One of the changes that drew the most attention this month affects beneficiaries of Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

According to the official calendar:

• July 1: monthly payment for July.
• July 31: advanced payment corresponding to August.

This second deposit does not represent an additional benefit, but rather an advance. The SSA explains that when the first day of the following month falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is sent on the last business day of the previous month.

In this case, August 1, 2026 falls on a Saturday, so the benefit will be credited on July 31.

Official Social Security calendar for July 2026

The SSA confirmed the following payment dates for July:

• July 1: SSI beneficiaries.
• July 2: people who have been receiving benefits since before May 1997 and those who collect SSI together with another Social Security benefit.
• July 8: people born between the 1st and the 10th of any month.
• July 15: people born between the 11th and the 20th.
• July 22: people born between the 21st and the 31st.
• July 31: advanced SSI payment corresponding to August.

Why does the SSA advance some payments?

The Social Security Administration adjusts the calendar whenever a payment date coincides with a weekend or a federal holiday.

The goal is for beneficiaries to avoid delays in receiving their deposits and to be able to access the money before banks or federal offices close.

That is why the payment scheduled for July 3 was moved up to July 2, while the SSI benefit for August will be sent on July 31, since the first day of the following month will not be a business day.

Through the official mayor’s office website, it was confirmed that starting on June 16, families with eligible children who meet the requirements may receive up to 120 dollars per school-age child for food purchases.

New York deposits 120 dollars per school-age child: Who qualifies for this benefit?

This benefit may be received by families with children between 6 and 16 years old who are enrolled:

• SNAP.
• Financial assistance.
• Health insurance.
• Free school meals or reduced-price meals.

Approval in these cases will be automatic, and beneficiaries will receive a letter by mail. If your case does not apply to these conditions, you may submit an application if you meet these requirements:

• The child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
• Your household income is below the monthly limits

Summer EBT benefits: What is this program?

Summer EBT is a federal food assistance program whose goal is to help families with school-age children buy food during the summer vacation, when students no longer eat at school.

What are the maximum monthly income limits to receive New York’s 120 dollars?

The maximum monthly income varies according to household size:

• 1 child: 2,413 dollars.
• 2 children: 3,261 dollars.
• 3 children: 4,109 dollars.
• 4 children: 4,957 dollars.
• 5 children: 5.805 dollars.
• 6 children: 6,653 dollars.
• 7 children: 7,501 dollars.
• 8 children: 8,349 dollars.
• Each additional person: +848 dollars.

How do you apply for Summer EBT benefits?

If your household meets the requirements and did not receive a notification by mail before June 16, you will have time to apply online by clicking here until September 8, 2026.

You can also call the Summer EBT help line: 833-452-0096 during the following hours:

• Monday through Friday: from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Saturdays: from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Senate Bill 2342 stipulates that big chains of grocery stores have to adjust how many self-checkouts they have open at a given time.

Rhode Island’s stores may face $1,000 daily fines under new law for retailers

Senate Bill 2342 sets new requirements stores would have to follow to avoid high daily fines.

Under the law, grocery stores must keep at least one staffed checkout lane open for every three self-checkout stations in operation. In addition, at least one self-checkout lane must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The legislation also requires employees assigned to monitor self-checkout stations to perform only that task while on duty. They cannot simultaneously operate a staffed checkout lane or carry out other store responsibilities.

Retailers that fail to comply with these requirements may be fined up to $1,000 for each day they remain in violation, making Rhode Island the first U.S. state to establish statewide restrictions on grocery store self-checkout operations.

Which Stores Could Be Affected by Rhode Island’s Self-Checkout Law?

The new requirements apply to grocery retailers operating self-checkout stations in Rhode Island. Because the law defines groceries broadly, major chains such as Walmart, Target, Whole Foods, Aldi, CVS, and Walgreens could be affected depending on the products they sell.

Supporters of the measure say it is intended to preserve retail jobs, maintain employee working hours, improve customer service, and ensure shoppers always have access to a staffed checkout lane if they need assistance.

The law does not require retailers to hire additional employees. Businesses may instead choose to open more staffed checkout lanes, reduce the number of self-checkout stations operating at the same time, or reorganize existing staff to comply with the new rules.

The process is documented in IRS Publication 594, updated in January 2026. The agency requires a Final Notice of Intent to Levy at least 30 days in advance before carrying out the seizure of assets or funds.

In what cases can the IRS appear in person?

Although the general rule is remote collection, the IRS retains the authority to act in person in specific situations. Those exceptions include the delivery of summonses and subpoenas, and sensitive asset seizure activities, especially those at risk of falling outside the government’s reach.

Added to this are the cases in which the IRS can levy without the prior 30-day period. This happens when collection is at risk or when it concerns federal contractor debt. The enabled scenarios are:

• Collection in danger: if the agency believes the debt may become uncollectible, it acts immediately.
• Federal contractor debt: allows seizure without the standard prior notice.
• Summonses and subpoenas: delivery may be made in person.
• Seizure of assets at risk: property that could be hidden or taken out of the country.

In those cases, the IRS sends a later letter explaining the seizure carried out and detailing the available appeal rights for the taxpayer.

What should citizens and foreigners do after the seizure notice?

The taxpayer has 30 days from the Final Notice to request a hearing before the Appeals Office, through Collection Due Process (CDP). During that process, collection is suspended and alternatives can be proposed.

Before the levy is carried out, there are ways to regularize the situation, always with all returns filed:

• Installment agreement: available online for debts of up to u$s 100,000, with reduced fees for those who owe up to u$s 50,000.
• Offer in Compromise (OIC): allows negotiating a lower amount than owed using Form 656.
• Currently not collectible account: suspends collection if the person cannot pay, although interest and penalties continue to accrue.

A little-known fact: an unpaid tax debt exceeding u$s 66,000 --a figure in force in 2026-- can lead to the suspension or revocation of the U.S. passport, according to the FAST Act of 2015.

The updated schedule is part of the municipality’s efforts to manage residential waste services and comes as several other U.S. cities and states are also introducing new regulations related to garbage collection and disposal.

Virginia Beach raises fees for trash and recycling services

Under the new rules, replacing a damaged or lost trash or recycling bin will now cost $100, representing a $25 increase compared with the previous fee.

The city also updated the cost of renting equipment used for yard waste disposal:

• A one-day yard debris trailer rental now costs $50, up $10.
• A weekend rental increases to $150, a $75 hike.

Residents can make payments using a credit card, personal check, or money order payable to the Treasurer, City of Virginia Beach.

Trash and recycling bins must meet color requirements

In addition to the revised fees, Virginia Beach continues to require residents to use specific containers for household waste:

• Black bins must be used for regular trash.
• Blue bins are designated for recycling.

Using the correct containers helps the city maintain an organized collection system and ensures recyclable materials are processed separately from household waste.

Other U.S. cities are also updating trash regulations

Virginia Beach is not the only community introducing new waste-related rules.

In Colorado, a recently approved law changes how authorities can enforce cases involving wildlife attracted by improperly stored garbage. The legislation lowers the legal standard from proving someone “intentionally” lured bears with trash to “knowingly” doing so, making enforcement easier in certain cases.

Meanwhile, San Diego, California, is transitioning to a new waste collection system that requires residents to replace their existing black trash bins with city-issued gray containers.

In Oakland, California, officials have also approved stricter penalties for illegal dumping. Under the updated ordinance, fines for dumping trash unlawfully can now reach $5,000, doubling the previous maximum penalty.

As local governments continue updating waste management policies, residents are encouraged to review their city’s latest guidelines to avoid unexpected fees or potential penalties.

The legislation, signed by Governor Brian Kemp, was introduced in response to a growing number of fraud cases targeting older and vulnerable adults.

Why can banks freeze accounts under the new law?

The measure, known as the Senior and Vulnerable Adult Financial Protection and Cryptocurrency Kiosk Act, gives financial institutions the authority to delay transactions if they suspect that an account holder is being financially exploited.

The rule applies to accounts owned by an eligible adult, accounts where an eligible adult is a beneficiary, and even accounts belonging to individuals suspected of carrying out the exploitation.

Under the law, an eligible adult is defined as:

• A person 65 years of age or older
• A disabled adult

How long can the freeze last?

The initial hold can remain in place for up to 15 business days.

However, if the bank’s review continues to support the belief that financial exploitation may be occurring, the institution can extend the restriction for an additional 15 business days, potentially blocking access to funds for up to 30 days in total.

Will account holders be notified?

Yes. If an account freeze is imposed, banks and credit unions must generally notify all individuals authorized to access the account, as well as any trusted contact listed on it.

The written notification must be sent within three business days.

There is one important exception. If the financial institution reasonably believes that a person with access to the account may be involved in the suspected exploitation, it is not required to notify that individual about the freeze.

Banks must investigate suspected fraud

The legislation does not simply permit financial institutions to freeze funds and wait.

Banks and credit unions are also required to investigate the circumstances that led to the hold and review available information before deciding whether to extend the restriction.

The law also grants immunity protections to financial institutions and their employees when they act in good faith and with reasonable care while implementing an account freeze.

New rules also target cryptocurrency ATMs

The legislation goes beyond traditional banking.

It also introduces new requirements for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency ATMs operating in the state.

Under the new rules:

• Crypto kiosks must display warnings informing users that transactions are generally irreversible.
• Fees cannot exceed 18% of the transaction amount.
• New customers are limited to transactions of up to $2,500 per day.
• Existing customers can conduct transactions of up to $10,000 per day.

Supporters of the measure say the new protections are intended to combat increasingly sophisticated scams that frequently target older adults and vulnerable individuals, while also increasing safeguards around cryptocurrency transactions.

Beginning on July 1, banks and credit unions in Georgia will have new authority to temporarily restrict access to certain accounts when there is evidence suggesting financial exploitation may be taking place.

The reasons that can lead to this consequence are several and the scope depends on who owes the debt and the stage the probate process is in. In this sense, both the deceased person’s outstanding taxes and those of the heir can trigger this.

The United States seizes these people: in what situations can inherited assets be intervened

The federal agency in charge of tax collection in the United States can proceed with the seizure of an inheritance if there are tax debts pending from the taxpayer who died.

To understand why this mechanism comes into play, it is necessary to know what happens to assets when a person dies. Everything in their name becomes part of their estate, and it must pay taxes before it can be distributed.

In the event that there are tax debts pending, the IRS may:

• Claim payment and deduct it from the inheritance
• Require the legal representative to regularize the situation
• Impose liens on the assets of said estate

Receiving an inheritance: the procedure that cannot be missed to avoid seizures in the United States

The responsibility for filing the final tax return falls on the surviving spouse or the estate representative. This procedure is mandatory and must include:

• All income up to the date of death
• Prior years’ returns if they were missing
• Payment of any outstanding debt or refund claim

In the event that the assets of the estate in question generate income, such as rent or investments, it is also necessary to file an additional return for the estate (Form 1041). Without this final step, the inheritance may be seized.

One of the most requested forms of assistance is the Child Tax Credit (CTC), which can be accessed by filing Form 1040 along with the tax return.

What does the IRS Child Tax Credit involve and how does it work?

According to the information provided on the tax agency’s official website, the credit was up to $2,200 per child, while the refundable amount could reach up to $1,700.

The Child Tax Credit was implemented by the IRS authorities with the aim of reducing the tax burden on families with children under 17 years of age. In order to access the refund, it is necessary to file the tax return in the corresponding tax season.

To date, the authorities have not carried out any update or modification of the amounts in relation to the 2025 tax season.

Fundamental requirements to obtain the IRS CTC

For a family to benefit from this tax refund, the following conditions must be met:

• Have a Social Security number
• Be under 17 years of age
• Be claimed as a dependent on your tax return

What amount can a family receive through this refund?

• 4 qualifying children under 17 years of age up to $8,000 in total
• 3 qualifying children under 17 years of age up to $6,000 in total
• 2 qualifying children under 17 years of age up to $4,000 in total
• 1 qualifying child under 17 years of age up to $2,000 in total

According to the White House, the goal is to detect possible cases of illegal employment, tax fraud, and other activities that could pose a risk to the financial system.

To do so, the Treasury Department ordered tighter oversight of certain banking transactions and asked financial institutions to intensify controls when they identify unusual operations.

How does Trump’s order affect immigrants’ bank accounts?

The measure instructs the Treasury Department and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to intensify monitoring of transactions that may be related to irregular immigration or possible labor fraud schemes.

In practice, banks will have to pay closer attention to transactions that show signs of risk and, if they consider a transaction suspicious, report it in accordance with current regulations.

According to the U.S. government, the goal is to prevent the financial system from being used to facilitate irregular employment or to hide tax evasion schemes.

Who could be affected?

The order is aimed mainly at people who remain in the United States without immigration authorization and who carry out financial transactions that could trigger alerts within crime prevention systems.

Even so, immigration specialists clarify that having a bank account does not automatically make a person the subject of an investigation.

Banks already apply controls to prevent money laundering and other illicit activities, and the new provisions reinforce those oversight mechanisms.

How to protect yourself if you are an immigrant in the United States

In the face of tighter controls, specialized lawyers recommend keeping all financial documentation in order and retaining records that can justify the source of the money.

Among the main recommendations are:

• Keep receipts that prove the source of income.
• Do not use false documents or provide incorrect information when opening a bank account.
• Properly declare financial transactions when required by law.
• Consult with a specialized lawyer if the bank requests additional documentation or information about immigration status.
• Respond on time to any request issued by a financial institution or the relevant authorities.

Does the order allow bank accounts to be frozen?

The new measure does not authorize the automatic freezing of bank accounts.

What it does is strengthen financial investigation and monitoring tools. Any measure such as blocking or freezing funds must follow the corresponding legal procedure and be supported by current regulations.

In other words, the order expands the ability to detect and report suspicious transactions, but it does not authorize the immediate closing or freezing of an account solely because it belongs to an immigrant.

The proposal was promoted by Senator Chris Murphy, of Connecticut, along with lawmakers from both chambers. The federal minimum wage has been frozen at $7.25 per hour since 2009, when Congress last updated it.

What does the bill seeking a $25 per hour minimum wage propose?

The bill, called Living Wage For All Act, proposes raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $12 per hour in the first year. From there, the floor would gradually rise until it reaches $25 per hour.

The rollout would have two deadlines depending on the size of the employer. Once the cap is reached, future increases would be tied to two-thirds of the national average wage to avoid new freezes:

• Large companies: would have to reach $25 per hour by 2032.
• Other employers: would have until 2039 to adapt.
• Other changes: the bill would gradually eliminate reduced wages for tipped workers, young people, and people with disabilities.

Who is affected by the minimum wage change and what happens now?

The impact would be broad: according to Senator Murphy’s office, 45% of workers in the United States currently earn less than $25 per hour. The measure targets that universe of lower-income employees, while the federal floor remains unchanged since 2009.

For now, this is a proposal that still has to move forward in Congress. At the same time, 34 states, territories and districts already have minimums above the federal level, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, an organization that brings together state legislatures. The District of Columbia leads the list with $17.95 per hour and, among the states, Washington leads with $17.13.