Last year, millions of taxpayers never responded to letters from the Internal Revenue Service requesting that they authenticate their identity before the IRS can release their federal income tax refunds, according to a new blog by the National Taxpayer Advocate.

We all complain about the crazy and sometimes foolish behavior of the Internal Revenue Service. But, other taxing entities such as states, school districts and municipalities can be just as bad. These other taxing entities have no qualms in spending $100 to collect $10 in extra taxes. They are also quick to charge interest and penalties on anything and everything.

If one of these notices comes your way, please check immediately with your tax advisor. This piece of mail is not to be ignored.

Many people including me want to make things hard. Because, if it isn’t hard, it is not worth doing. That old adage too often doesn’t carry its own weight.

From a cash flow standpoint, the IRS, the state, school districts and cities can’t lose when it comes to gambling. From a tax standpoint, whether you win or lose at gambling. - you can’t win.

Now that the holidays are over, we at Bradstreet & Company want to thank you for another year of great relationships and meaningful friendships, and hope you have a joyous and prosperous new year.