Important tidbits: What to expect in 2020

In just a few days we will  enter into a new decade and new year. With that, there are some things to keep in mind

On the forefront, the Presidential election is already high on the list and expected to be a very heated race that will continue to intensify up to the very last  minute. Social media, radio and television will light up with ads, mud slinging and more very soon. Don't say you weren't warned...

Wages

In Missouri, minimum wage is going up a little. Not the much desired $15 an hour yet, but a bump from $8.60 to $9.45. Over time it will creep to $12 in 2023. The increase will not apply to those such as restaurant workers who will continue to receive the tipped minimum of $3.92 an hour. By contrast, most agricultural and farm employees will remain exempt from the minimum wage rules. And so there's no surprise, remember that some counties and cities have their own minimum wage rules too.

If you work in Kansas, minimum wage for employers with 26 or more employees will increase to $13.00 per hour January 1st. Kansas is on target to be at $15 an hour in 2021.

Real ID

Missouri will become Real ID compliant this year. Missouri non-driver photo identification cards (ID) can be used as an alternative form of identification if you don't have a driver's license. You can use a Missouri ID card to travel, do banking, and prove your age. The Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) does NOT have a minimum age requirement to apply for a Missouri non-driver ID card. As long as you are a resident of Missouri, you may apply. If you're a minor, your parent or guardian must supply your proof of identity and residency. You cannot hold both a MO non-driver ID card and a U.S. driver's license or out-of-state ID card at the same time. Your out-of-state ID cards or licenses will be punched "VOID" when you apply for a MO ID card.

You must apply for your Missouri non-driver ID card in person at a local DOR branch. The DOR does not take appointments for Missouri ID card applications. You cannot apply online or by mail.

You will need:
To surrender any out-of-state ID cards or licenses to the MO DOR.
Your Social Security number (you do not need to bring in your Social Security card).
If you do not have a Social Security number, you need to bring a letter from the SSA regarding your SSN status.
Proof of name, and place and date of birth (e.g. U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or citizenship certificate).
Proof of Missouri residence (e.g. utility bill, pay check, or bank statement). Post office box addresses will not be accepted. You will also need to prove your mailing address if it is different than your physical address.
Proof of any name change, if applicable (e.g. certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
Payment for the $12 to $18 ID card fee.

A full list of accepted documents can be found online. And if you need even more info, it can be found here https://www.dmv.org/mo-missouri/id-cards.php

Weather

If you follow the Farmer's Almanac, here goes: Winter temperatures will be below normal, on average, with above-normal snowfall and slightly above-normal precipitation. The coldest periods will be in early to mid-January, early and mid-February, and early March. The snowiest periods will be in early to mid-December, early to mid-January, and mid-February. April and May will be warmer and slightly drier than normal. Summer will be slightly warmer and rainier than normal, with the hottest periods in mid- and late June, mid-July, and mid- and late August. September and October will bring above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall.

Taxes

Unless you enjoy reading the IRS version of War and Peace, we recommend talking to your local tax person or accountant. However, if you dare, you can start HERE courtesy of our friends at the Internal Revenue Service.

Medicare/Medicaid

Changes in these programs are subtle as well. More info is available here https://www.2020medicare.us/medicare-2020-changes/