The Internal Revenue Service announced plans Dec. 19 to open the 2014 filing season on Jan. 31 and encouraged taxpayers to use e-file or Free File as the fastest way to receive refunds.

Although the year is almost over, you still have time to take steps that can lower your 2013 taxes.

US Senators from Virginia, Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, have introduced legislation they say will repeal and replace the Bipartisan Budget Act provisions that propose to cut military pensions for working-age military retirees by 1 percent beginning in January 2015.

Bilateral trade of all beef and beef products could occur once Brazil and the United States meet the importing country's equivalence and technical requirements for animal health and food safety, the USDA said.

Congressman Frank Wolf, who represents part of the Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park area, says he will not run for reelection. His future work will be in human rights and religious freedom, he said.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection sent to the Federal Register on Friday, Dec. 13, a Final Rule to broaden the definition of “members of a family residing in one household” to more accurately reflect relationships. It could take effect in 30 days.

The Internal Revenue Service Farmer’s Tax Guide is now available on the IRS.gov website for use in preparing upcoming 2013 tax returns. The publication contains information on the farming business either as an owner or tenant.