Tax Day is the annual deadline for Americans to file their federal income tax returns. Today, most people recognize April 15 as the date when taxes are due, but the history behind it goes back much further.   A Brief History of the Federal Income Tax The United States first introduced a federal income tax during the Civil War between 1862 and 1872 to help fund the war effort. Early taxes were based on assessments rather than voluntary filings, and the rate was set at 3 percent on incomes above $800.   Over time, Congress adjusted the system by lowering rates and increasing the income levels that were exempt from taxation. Attempts to reinstate a permanent income tax in 1894 were ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.  

      Selling online offers convenience for customers and growth opportunities for businesses—but it also comes with increased risk. When a card and customer aren’t physically present, merchants face greater exposure to fraud, disputes, and chargebacks. The good news? There are simple, practical steps businesses can take to reduce that risk and protect both their customers and their revenue.     Smart Practices That Help Reduce Online Fraud Authorize transactions promptlyAuthorizations are valid for a limited time. If shipping is delayed, obtaining a new authorization before sending merchandise helps prevent expired approvals and potential disputes. Pay attention to billing and shipping detailsReview billing and shipping addresses carefully. Differences aren’t always a red flag, but unusual combinations or incomplete information deserve a closer look. Collect contact informationRequesting a

Questions about data security and PCI compliance are becoming more common—and for good reason. Data breaches continue to increase, impacting businesses of every size and type. As a result, more merchants are asking important questions:   • Could this happen to my business?• Am I actually compliant?• Am I doing enough to protect my customers’ card data?   PCI compliance has shifted from a misunderstood fee on a statement to a critical part of protecting a business from financial and reputational harm. Large companies often dedicate entire teams to data security, but small and mid-sized businesses are just as vulnerable. In fact, a single breach can be devastating—regardless of how many transactions a business processes.If you accept credit cards in any way—online, in person, or through mobile tools—PCI