President Obama Signs Legislation Providing Immediate Tax Deductions for Haiti Charitable Contributions January 22, 2010. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

In the days since the earthquake in Haiti, Americans have shown their generosity with millions of dollars in donations.  Tonight, President Obama signed a bill into law that makes it easier to give.  This legislation will allow taxpayers to receive the tax benefit from donations made to the Haiti effort in this tax season, rather than having to wait until they file their 2010 tax returns next year.  Specifically, cash donations to charities for the Haitian relief effort given after January 11 and before March 1 of this year may be treated as if the contribution was made on December 31 of last year so that the contribution can be deducted from 2009 income. This measure applies to monetary donations, not goods or services.

One way to contribute is the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund.  To donate, visit ClintonBushHaitiFund.org or text “QUAKE” to 20222 to charge a $10 donation that will be added to your cell phone bill.  To learn more about the situation in Haiti and what you can do to help, visit WhiteHouse.gov/HaitiEarthquake.

You must report all income in U.S. dollar equivalents. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has no official exchange rate. Any posted exchange rate that is used consistently is acceptable. For additional exchange rates, check the U.S. treasury website at http://fms.treas.gov/intn.html#rates. Taxpayers generally use the yearly average exchange rate to report foreign income that was regularly received throughout the year. If you had a few foreign transactions on particular days however, you may prefer to use the exchange rates for such days.

Below are unofficial average exchange rates for selected currencies. Amount shown is one foreign currency unit to $1.00. For example, 1,000 GBP would convert to $1,560 (£1,000 divided by 0.641 = $1,560).

Please note these are unofficial rates and supplied solely for the convenience of our customers.

The years 2000-2009 plus information on the current exchange rate are available as a PDF (800Kb, 3 pages) suitable for printing on US letter-sized paper in portrait format.

The 2009 exchange rate is U.S. $1.565 = £1.00

For more information regarding U.S. taxes, please contact the IRS office at the U.S. Embassy in London directly. Their details can be found on our website at http://london.usembassy.gov/irs/index.htm.

It’s been said that the true spirit of the holiday season is in giving, not receiving. With this in mind, it’s likely that you will be spending a bit of time shopping for presents, your credit card flying out of your wallet or purse like wind-blown snow.

But as you shop online, be sure you’re not giving a surprise gift to an identity thief – because the surprise will be on you — and it won’t be a good one.

Sometimes when you do business online, you may be asked for your Social Security number. In many cases, those asking don’t really need it. If anyone asks for your Social Security number or other identifying information, ask them why they want it and whether they absolutely need it. They can refuse you service if you don’t provide it, but consider whether the service is worth the risk.

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. Someone who steals your Social Security number can use it to get other personal information about you. Identity thieves can use your number to apply for more credit in your name. Then, they use the credit cards but leave the bills for you. Falling victim to identity theft can ruin your credit rating and make things difficult for months or years to come.

Identity thieves can obtain your Social Security number, credit card numbers, and personal information in a number of ways, including:

• Stealing wallets, purses, and mail;
• Intercepting personal information you provide on an unsecured website, from business or personnel records at work, and personal information in your home;
• Rummaging through your rubbish and public rubbish dumps, for personal information;
• Posing as someone who needs your information, such as a government agency, employer, bank, or landlord; and
• Buying personal information from store clerks, employees, or other individuals who have the information.

There are things you can do to protect your identity.

Don’t give out your Social Security number to just anyone. Don’t carry your card in your wallet or purse; keep your Social Security card locked away in a safe place with your other important papers.

Protect your information this holiday season, and you’ll enjoy a little more “peace on earth” in the year to come.

For general information on Social Security, you may wish to consult the Federal Benefits Unit’s website: http://london.usembassy.gov/cons_new/acs/fbu/index.html.

Tips for you and your family to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime over the upcoming festive period.

With any downturn in the economy there is always a rise in crime – and theft and burglary are crimes that are the most common in the run up to the Holidays. Our office sees people nearly every day who are the victims of pickpockets. It’s never too early to think about personal safety. In the following pages there are a few useful tips to help you and your family to enjoy a crime free holiday period.

SHOPPING

• Ensure your purse and wallet are secure, any flaps or zips on purses should be secured to prevent pickpockets from targeting you. You might want to spread your valuables around your body, i.e. cell phone in a coat pocket and house keys in another.

• Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you when in crowded areas like Oxford Street.

• Always try to use a cash machine inside a bank, as they are monitored by CCTV, are located near staff members, and are the least likely to be targeted by thieves.

• When using cash machine always be aware of the people around you – if you are with a friend ask him or her to face any queue or persons behind you to help mask your pin code as you enter it.

• If you feel pressurized or uncomfortable by people around a cash machine, cancel the transaction, take your card, and use another machine elsewhere.

• Use cash for transactions where possible to avoid having to use your credit card and PIN in shopping outlets. Remember always to cover the keypad with your other hand when entering your PIN to prevent prying eyes from seeing it.

• Try not to advertize that you have bought expensive items such as mobile phones, iPods, or game consoles – take nondescript carrier bags with you and use them instead of the branded bags for the journey home.

• Try not to advertize your personal valuables such as expensive jewelry, watches, mp3 players, and mobile phones while out walking or shopping. Remember, wearing headphones takes one of your senses away and you can’t hear what is around you.

AT HOME

• Thieves target insecure houses. On leaving your house, ensure all windows are closed and locked. If you have grilles or sliding gates, close and lock them.

• Double lock your front doors – use both locks EVERY TIME you leave the house.

• Don’t leave any sheds containing garden tools or ladders unsecured, as these can be used by burglars to gain access to upper floors or lever windows.

• Don’t leave spare keys outside under a brick or in a garage or shed. Also ensure you put car keys, garage keys, and remotes out of sight inside the house – never leave them in the open on the inside of your front entrance.

• Don’t leave your Christmas tree and presents on show when away from the house – ensure curtains are drawn.

• If you have a card posted through your door stating PDS (Parcel Delivery Service) were unable to deliver a parcel and that you need to phone the following number, 0906 6611911 (a premium rate number) to arrange re-deliver, DO NOT CALL. This is a mail scam originating in Belize. If you call the number you will hear a recorded message that will cost you a minimum of £15.

• All genuine Royal Mail cards are red and give an address from which to collect the parcel as well as a contact number.

• Once the Christmas presents have been opened, don’t leave large unwanted packaging advertising computer game consuls, flat screen TVs, iPods, or mobile phones, etc., out for the garbage collector as thieves note the addresses for future attention. Either place them in black sacks or find out where your nearest municipal rubbish dump is and take them there yourself.

• Beware of bogus callers to the house. Check the identity of all callers– if they are from the utility companies they will have identification and a free phone number you can call to clarify their identity.

• If in doubt keep them out – make an appointment with the utility company so they visit at your convenience. You can now set up a password system with the utility companies so when they call you know it’s them.

• Any person entering your house should be accompanied at all times.

• You would be lost without your mobile phone if it was stolen – please note your handset’s registration number (IMEI – this is a 15-digit number unique to your handset. If you put *#06# into the keypad it will give you your IMEI number – this is the first number the police check when recovering stolen cell phones).

SOCIALIZING

• The holidays are a time for socializing; keep in mind, however, that thieves often target bars and restaurants where people are enjoying a relaxing drink after work.

• Ensure your purse and wallet are with you at all times; do not leave them unattended.

• Most West End pubs and bars have ‘Chelsea clips’ under the tables where you can hang your purse and it cannot be removed without the use of two hands, making it harder for a criminal to ‘lift’ it.

• Always plan your evenings, know where a venue is and what underground station or bus route it is near, and always tell a family member where you are going and what time you will be expected home.

• If you are going to be out late, try to arrange a lift home or book a taxi. Check that the taxi that arrives is the one you ordered.

• If you can pre-book your taxi, make a note of the company you are using and the phone number, and leave it with a friend.

• Always keep the number of a reliable firm handy. Avoid mini cabs or private hire cars that ‘tout’ for business and are unlicensed.

• If you find yourself in an area you are not familiar with and you don’t know a reliable cab firm, use the CABWISE service. Text HOME to 60835 and they will send you a text with a choice of two local licensed companies in the area.

VEHICLES

• Lock the doors and close the windows and sunroof when you leave the car – for any length of time.

• Don’t leave anything on display – even a jacket can seem like an appealing target for a thief.

• Remove the stereo or stereo face-plate if you can.

• Remove satellite navigation devices where possible, including the support cradle and suction pad. Remember to wipe away any suction pad marks left on the windscreen or dashboard .

• Tuck in wing mirrors and put the aerial down to discourage vandals.

• Never store the car’s documents in the vehicle.

• When the car is parked outside your house do not leave any garage keys, remote controls, or house keys in the vehicle.

• Always ensure your house and car keys are out of sight inside the house.

• When visiting friends or attending functions, plan your journey and make sure your car is well maintained and has sufficient petrol for the journey and return.

• Try to park in well-lit or busy areas. If you park during the day, think about what the area will feel like after dark.

• Use parking lots approved under the police Safer Parking Scheme. These display the Park Mark® sign and can be found at www.saferparking.com

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

• As with everything, you are safest where there are other people and where it is well lit.

• Plan your route and let a friend or relative know it.

• Purchase an Oyster card in advance.

• Try to wait in busy, well-lit areas.

• Sit near other people, near the driver if you are on a bus or near the guard if you are on a main line train. Do not sit on the top deck of a bus, you will be at greater risk.

• If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, get up and move away.

• After choosing your tube carriage, sit in the middle of the carriage as this will give you a choice of exit doors.

• Take extra care at crowded bus stops and on crowded buses and trains.

• Make a note of the public transport schedule, as the system will be closed at various times during the holiday period.

USEFUL WEBSITES

www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/how-you-can-prevent-crime/index.html

www.crimereduction.gov.uk

www.neighbourhoodwatch.uk.com

www.neighbourhoodpolicing.co.uk

www.safer-community.net

www.suzylamplugh.org

www.crimereduction.gov.uk/keepsafe.htm

www.cardwatch.org.uk

Wishing you all a very safe and happy 2009 Holiday Season.

]]> http://www.usembassy.org.uk/americanservices/?feed=rss2&p=1266 0 http://www.usembassy.org.uk/americanservices/?p=1263 http://www.usembassy.org.uk/americanservices/?p=1263#comments Fri, 27 Nov 2009 09:46:26 +0000 American Citizen Services http://www.usembassy.org.uk/americanservices/?p=1263

U.S. Department of State Announces U.S. Center at Copenhagen Climate Change Negotiation and Launches COP-15 Web site

For the first time, the U.S. Department of State, in coordination with the White House and multiple federal departments and agencies, is organizing and hosting a U.S. Center at the annual Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). At the 15th session (COP-15) in Copenhagen, Denmark, December 7-18, the U.S. Center will host over 70 events during the two-week conference that will highlight the strong actions the U.S. is taking at home and the leadership role the U.S. is fulfilling internationally to combat global climate change. This diplomatic initiative involves participation by academic institutions, scientific and research laboratories, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.

The U.S. Center will occupy a central location in the Bella Conference Center. It will provide an opportunity for the approximately 15,000 accredited participants at COP-15 and the Department’s COP-15 Web site visitors to learn more about U.S. climate actions. The U.S. Center will feature panel presentations, publications and videotape screenings to describe U.S. climate change policies and initiatives, including public-private partnerships and collaboration with other governments. Science On a Sphere®, a visually compelling globe that displays computer-driven animated images of the Earth’s land, oceans, and atmosphere, will be the U.S. Center’s dynamic centerpiece.

The COP-15 Web site (www.cop15.state.gov) will serve as the central resource for public information about United States policy positions and U.S. Center programs at the Copenhagen negotiation. The U.S. Center page will feature the two-week program of events, as well as fact sheets, photographs, and brief audio and video recordings from selected panels. Through Web streaming, there will be opportunities to watch U.S. Center programs happening live in Copenhagen. On its Press page, the Web site will feature press releases, statements and transcripts of formal press briefings. The Links page will connect users to U.S. climate change Web sites across the Federal Government.

The Department has also launched a Facebook page for the duration of the Copenhagen conference at www.facebook.com/usdos.cop15 to provide real time news, updates and information to users worldwide.

**This article can also be found on our website at http://london.usembassy.gov/eande075.html.**

23 November 2009
Proclamation by the President for Thanksgiving Day 2009

What began as a harvest celebration between European settlers and indigenous communities nearly four centuries ago has become our cherished tradition of Thanksgiving. This day’s roots are intertwined with those of our Nation, and its history traces the American narrative.

Today, we recall President George Washington, who proclaimed our first national day of public thanksgiving to be bserved “by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God,” and President Abraham Lincoln, who established our annual Thanksgiving Day to help mend a fractured Nation in the midst of civil war. We also recognize the contributions of Native Americans, who helped the early colonists survive their first harsh winter and continue to strengthen our Nation. From our earliest days of independence, and in times of tragedy and triumph, Americans have come together to celebrate Thanksgiving.

As Americans, we hail from every part of the world. While we observe traditions from every culture, Thanksgiving Day is a unique national tradition we all share. Its spirit binds us together as one people, each of us thankful for our common blessings.

As we gather once again among loved ones, let us also reach out to our neighbors and fellow citizens in need of a helping hand. This is a time for us to renew our bonds with one another, and we can fulfill that commitment by serving our communities and our Nation throughout the year. In doing so, we pay tribute to our country’s men and women in uniform who set an example of service that inspires us all. Let us be guided by the legacy of those who have fought for the freedoms for which we give thanks, and be worthy heirs to the noble tradition of goodwill shown on this day.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Thursday, November 26, 2009, as a National Day of Thanksgiving. I encourage all the people of the United States to come together, whether in our homes, places of worship, community centers, or any place where family,  friends and neighbors may gather, with gratitude for all we have received in the past year; to express appreciation to those whose lives enrich our own; and to share our bounty with  others.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of November, in the year of our Lord
two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

**This article can also be found on our website at http://london.usembassy.gov/obama137.html.**

Deputy Chief of Mission Richard LeBaron speaks at the "Creating the Climate for Change" conference

09 November 2009

U.S. Domestic and International Actions on Climate Change

Richard LeBaron, Deputy Chief of Mission
Remarks to the UK Environment Agency’s Annual Conference

Thank you for this opportunity to speak with you about actions being taken in the United States on climate change. It is an honor to be included with such a distinguished group and a pleasure to talk to many of you who are the implementers of change.

No one knows more clearly than the people in this room that the effects of climate change are serious, and they are going to become more serious unless we are able to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from all sources. We need to meet the energy needs of rising populations with cleaner energy that is used more efficiently.

In my career as a diplomat, I have worked on some fairly complex issues, such as the Middle East peace process, but I cannot remember an issue that was quite as broad and complex, and that touched as many areas of our lives, as climate change does. New technologies, new ways of doing business, new policies, new financial tools – we’ll need them all. And the sooner, the better.

Copenhagen is going to be an important milestone on this road to a new energy future. The implacable nature of climate change and political concerns over energy security mean that we cannot continue with business as usual. Our energy system thirty years ago wasn’t much different than it is now. But our energy system in thirty years will be radically different than today’s.

Using a few real examples, I’d like to describe to you some of the programs that are underway in the United States that deal with specific aspects of climate change, issues that many of you deal with daily. Because of our limited time, I will focus on two examples of what has come to be known as “mitigation,” simply defined as reducing emissions of CO2 so that the effects of climate change are reduced. I hope we can find another occasion to discuss “adaptation,” including perhaps a dialogue on how best to assemble comprehensive approaches to the scourge of flooding.

One example of mitigation from Denver in my home state of Colorado encapsulates not only the problem and the solution, but the way our political system manages big issues. Denver wanted to expand its public transportation system. As usual, funding was the issue. Denver’s solution, according to one news report, was “visionary” but it also was a tough slog through the thickets of local government and project financing. The Denver Metropolitan Transit District, which includes Denver and six surrounding counties, has the power to tax. In 1997, supporters proposed a referendum to raise the tax to pay for an expanded transport system. It was voted down. But in 2004, after years of careful work to build support, another referendum was proposed and approved by voters to create 122 more miles of light rail and 59 new stations. To pay for it, the voters authorized raising the local sales tax by 0.4%. The sales tax increase was enough to cover 32% of the projected $6.1 billion cost. Another 23% came from the Transit District. 20% came from a federal transportation grant. 9% came from public-private partnerships. 3.5% came from a transportation infrastructure fund. 3% came from other federal grants. 2% came from local funding. Read more…

The American scouts in the UK can benefit from your experience in many ways, from being a merit badge counsellor to volunteering as a unit leader to providing one-time help with an event like the Centennial Camporee.   You don’t need have been a scout, or to have children to be a part of this.  Just be willing to help boys have fun while developing into better citizens.   If you are interested in helping as an adult volunteer or have boys interested in joining a unit, please contact District Executive, Tony Dvorak, at todvorak@bsamail.org or District Commissioner, Dave Dittmer, at d.dittmer@manw.nato.int.

For this and other organizations of interest to the American ex-pat community, please see our list at http://london.usembassy.gov/cons_new/acs/scs/american_organizations_in_the_united_kingdom.html.

For other American Cultural Events in the UK, please visit our website at: http://london.usembassy.gov/culture/index.html .

Disclaimer
This listing of events, performances and other activities is for information purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Embassy. All opinions expressed by the artists, writers, and performers participating or contributing to the events listed are those solely of the participants and contributors and not of the United States Government or its designated representatives. Listing information is believed to be correct at the time it is listed but the U.S. Embassy accepts no liability for subsequent changes to these details and no reliance should be placed upon them.

Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)

Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will not automatically increase in 2010 as there was no increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W) from the third quarter of 2008 to the third quarter of 2009.  Other important 2010 Social Security information is as follows:

Maximum Taxable Earnings:

Social Security: $106,800*

Medicare (Hospital Insurance only): No Limit

Quarter of Coverage:

$1,120 – This is the amount you need to make to earn one quarter of coverage

Social Security Disability Thresholds:

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA):

Non-Blind: $1000 per month
Blind: $1,640 per month*

Trial Work Period (TWP): $ 720 per month

Annual limit: $6,600*

* Because there is no COLA, by statute these amounts remain unchanged in 2010.

REMEMBER THERE ARE CERTAIN RULES AND LIMITATIONS THAT APPLY TO WORK AFTER RETIREMENT

You may find the answers to some of your questions on this useful website: http://london.usembassy.gov/cons_new/acs/fbu/index.html