1. Correction: 2011 standard mileage rate increase

The standard mileage rate for business miles increased to 55.5 cents a mile July 1. This is an increase of 4.5 cents from the 51 cent rate in effect for the first six months of 2011.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

2. Tax information webinar for direct sellers

The free July 27 webinar will cover who is a direct seller, business income and expenses including travel, transportation, meals and entertainment. The broadcast will also discuss the nine factors used to determine if an activity is engaged in for profit.

3. Form 2290 Aug. 31 due date postponed

Truckers and other owners of heavy highway vehicles now have until Nov. 30 to file Form 2290, Heavy Highway Vehicle Tax. The tax is scheduled to expire on Sept. 30, 2011, and the extension will alleviate any confusion if Congress reinstates or modifies the tax.

Related links:

4. Pre-order the 2012 tax calendar now

The English version of the 2012 IRS Tax Calendar for Small Business and Self Employed, Publication 1518, will ship in late-November. The Spanish calendar (Pub 1518SP) will ship late-December.

Order online or call 1-800-829-3676.

5. ATGs offer insight into specific industry issues

Recently updated Audit Technique Guides include:

6. Recent IRS announcements

IR-2011-73, IRS Urges Taxpayers to Avoid Becoming Victims of Tax Scams