Thursday, November 28, 2019

10 Types of Marriage Records for Family History

10 Types of Marriage Records for Family History The different types of marriage records that might be available for your ancestors, and the amount and kind of information they contain,  will vary depending on the location and time period, as well as sometimes the parties religion. In some localities, a marriage license may include the most details, while in a different locality and time period more information might be found in the marriage register. Locating all available marriage record types increases the chance of learning additional information- including confirmation that the marriage actually took place, the names of parents or witnesses, or the religion of one or both parties to the marriage. Records of Intentions to Marry Marriage Banns - Banns, sometimes spelled bans, were public notice of an intended marriage between two specified persons on a particular date. Banns began as a church custom, later proscribed by English common law, that required the parties to give advance public notice of their intention to marry over three consecutive Sundays, either in church or a public place. The purpose was to give anyone who might have an objection to the marriage, to state why the marriage should not take place. Usually, this was because one or both of the parties was too young or already married, or because they were more closely related than allowed by law.Marriage Bond - a monetary pledge or guarantee given to the court by the intended groom and a bondsman to affirm  that there was no moral or legal reason why the couple could not be married, and also that the groom would not change his mind. If either party declined to go through with the union, or of one of the parties was found to be ineligible- for example, already married, too closely related to the other party, or underage without parental approval- the bond money was generally forfeit. The bondsman, or surety, was often a brother or uncle to the bride, although he could also be a relative of the groom, or even a neighbor of  a  friend of either of the two parties. The use of marriage bonds was especially common in the southern and mid-Atlantic states through the first half of the nineteenth century. In colonial Texas, where Spanish law required colonists to be Catholic, a marriage bond was used in a slightly different fashion- as a pledge to local authorities in situations where there was no Roman Catholic priest available that the couple agreed to have their civil marriage solemnized by a priest as soon as the opportunity came available.Marriage License -   Perhaps the most commonly found record of a marriage is the marriage license. The purpose of a marriage license was to ensure that the marriage conformed to all legal requirements, such as both parties being of lawful age and not too closely related to one another.  After confirming there were no impediments to the marriage, a  license form was issued by a local public official (usually the county clerk) to the couple intending to marry, and granted permission to anyone authorized to solemnize marriages (minister, Justice of the Peace, etc.) to perform the ceremony.  The marriage was usually- but not always- performe d within a few days after the granting of the license. In many localities both the marriage license and the marriage return (see below) are found recorded together. Marriage Application - In some jurisdictions and time periods, law required that a marriage application to be filled out before a marriage license could be issued. In such situations, the application often required more information than was recorded on the marriage license, making it especially useful for family history research. Marriage applications may be recorded in separate books, or might be found with the marriage licenses.   Consent Affidavit - In most jurisdictions, individuals under the lawful age could still be married with  the consent of a parent or guardian as long as they were still above a minimum age. The age at which an individual required consent varied by locality and time period, as well as whether they were male or female. Commonly, this might be anyone under the age of twenty-one; in some jurisdictions, lawful age was sixteen or eighteen, or even as young as thirteen or fourteen for females. Most jurisdictions also had a minimum age, not allowing children under the age of twelve or fourteen to marry, even with parental consent. In some cases, this consent may have taken the form of a written affidavit, signed by the parent (usually the father) or legal guardian. Alternatively, the consent may have been given verbally to the county clerk in front of one or more witnesses, and then noted along with the marriage record. Affidavits were also sometimes recorded to affirm that both individuals were of legal age. Marriage Contract or Settlement - While much less common than the other marriage record types discussed here, marriage contracts have been recorded since colonial times. Similar to what we would now call a prenuptial agreement, marriage contracts or settlements were agreements made prior to marriage, most commonly when the woman owned property in her own name or wished to ensure that property left by a former husband would go to his children and not the new spouse. Marriage contracts might be found filed among the marriage records, or recorded in the deed books or records of the local court.In areas governed by civil law, however, marriage contracts were much more common, used as a means for both parties to protect their property, regardless of their economic or social status. Marriage licenses, bonds,  and  banns all indicate that a marriage was  planned  to take place, but not that it actually happened. For proof that a marriage actually took place, youll need to look for any of the following records: Records Documenting That a Marriage Took Place Marriage Certificate  - A marriage certificate confirms a marriage and is signed by the person officiating at the marriage. The downside is, that the original marriage certificate ends up in the hands of the bride and groom, so if it hasnt been passed down in the family, you may not be able to locate it. In most localities, however, the information from the marriage certificate, or at least verification that the marriage actually took place, is recorded at the bottom or on the back of the marriage license, or in a separate marriage book (see  marriage register  below). Marriage Return / Ministers Return  - Following the wedding, the minister or officiant would complete a paper called a  marriage return indicating that he had married the couple and on what date. He would later return it to the local registrar as proof that the marriage occurred. In many  localities,  you can find this return  recorded at the bottom or on the back of the marriage license. Alternatively, the information may be located in a Marriage Register (see below) or in a separate volume of ministers returns. The lack of an actual marriage date or  marriage  return does not always mean the marriage didnt take place, however. In some  cases,  the minister or officiant may have simply forgotten to drop off the return, or it wasnt recorded for whatever reason. Marriage Register  - Local clerks generally recorded the marriages they performed in a marriage register or book. Marriages performed by another officiant (e.g.  minister, justice of the peace, etc.) were also generally recorded, following receipt of the  marriage  return. Sometimes marriage registers incorporate information from a variety of marriage documents, so may include the names of the couples; their ages, birthplaces, and current locations; the names of their parents, the names of witnesses, the name of the officiant and the date of marriage. Newspaper Announcement  - Historical newspapers are a rich source for information on marriages, including those which may predate the recording of marriages in that locality. Search  historical newspaper archives  for engagement announcements and marriage announcements, paying special attention to clues such as the location of the marriage, the name of the officiant (may indicate religion), the members of the marriage party, the names of guests, etc. Dont overlook religious or ethnic newspapers if you know the ancestors religion, or if they belong to a specific ethnic group (e.g. the local German-language newspaper).

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Information Security Standards for Internal Revenue Service

Information Security Standards for Internal Revenue Service Information Revenue Service (IRS) is an American agency that collects taxes and enforces the tax laws that guide the entire process. Since the agency is handling information deemed confidential, it has employed numerous securities standards in enhancing confidentiality of their data.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Information Security Standards for Internal Revenue Service specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The information security standards at IRS have abroad perspective; the security components include physical security program, Privacy, Information Protection and Data Security (PIPDS), Information Technology (IT) Security, and National and Personal Security Information (Internal Revenue Manual, n.d.). Information privacy at IRS remains a key issue in enhancing taxpayers’ confidence. The purpose of physical security program is to offer protection to the lives of employees and the entire management of IRS. IRS protects its information through data security, physical security, and sensitive procedures of handling documents. These complex procedures ensure that these resources are not accessible to third parties. Third parties ease to data accessibility can cause risk and harm. In enhancing information security, IRS ensures that the security procedures are in line with the federal regulations of disclosure, access, disposition, and use of information. Under this program, there are authorities that ensure the employees and contractors meet the outlined standards fully. For instance, The Privacy Act of 1974 prohibits information disclosure from public records without a written acceptance from the concerned person. The Act follows a specified rule regarding allowing an individual to access any information. The rule clarifies on the timing fee and location under which the body can authenticate one to view the data (Internal Revenue Manual, n.d.). Although one has a right to get access to any of the agency’s records, an exemption prohibits information access by the public. If on request for information availability on a format that is already available, the agency is free to supply such information on a format that is reproducible. Additionally, IRS conducts annual security briefings to its employees in order to familiarize them with their security responsibilities. The agency only grants access to sensitive information on a need-to-know basis, and the employees remain responsible for providing security to all information to enhance trust among the public. The agency has a Physical Security Handbook that outlines guidelines on minimum information security standards that allow flexibility for developing higher standards for meeting different requirements. The management at IRS implements these policies on physical security.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In Information Technology (IT) Security, IRS’s systems and applications are secured (Internal Revenue Manual, n.d.). The IT Security creates, updates, and maintains information. This system enhances the security of information that the taxpayers have given to IRS thus averting issues of unauthorized information access. Clearly, information security starts with improving physical security of the organization. On Privacy, Information Protection, and Data Security (PIPDS), IRS uses modern technological applications to protect the taxpayers’ personal identifiable information. The agency uses these data according to the applicable laws and Presidential Directives (Internal Revenue Service (IRS), 2013). This step enhances confidence among the American taxpayers. Notably, PIPDS Programs and Policies carry out implementation of varied programs that boost information security standards. For instance, the Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) carries out th e overall assessment of both the internal and external threats that can compromise information confidentiality. This program follows the guidelines in the E-Government Act of 2002. Further, Information Protection program protects taxpayers from identity theft. The policies and procedures avoid access of data by hackers. Incident Management Program (IMP) is a program that takes necessary steps and responses in case of data losses especially personally identifiable data. IMP also responds to data disclosure, breach, and theft. IRS prevents third parties from accessing taxpayers’ private information. IRS launched IMP after the President’s Identity Theft Task Force recommendations of data loss notification. Notably, it is a requirement for employees to report any disclosure, theft, and loss of information within an hour. This reporting time limit is meant to minimize the possibility of compromising personal information thus can be used in committing fraudulent activities. However, an employee has to confirm the identity of the caller before reporting the incident within the stipulated one hour. This step helps in confirming if the caller is a taxpayer or not (US Tax Center, n.d.). The PIPDS office monitors and regulates Live Data Testing Reviews. The regulations restrict live data testing without prior written approval; this responsibility lies with the PIPDS office. Taxpayers who perform online transactions through computers are protected from fraudulent cases by the Online Fraud Detection Prevention. The launched phishing program conducts a global monitoring of those who access their websites; in case of malicious occurrences, the program reports to the central system for immediate intervention.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Information Security Standards for Internal Revenue Service specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Markedly, IRS has ensured safety of their data by usin g these programs. In addition, IRS assigns pseudonyms to all their employees. Pseudonyms are false identity names; they ensure safety of employees. In online transactions, such names make it difficult for trackers to identify the personal information of the employees. IRS policies require that an employee must give adequate justifications to why he/she wants to use the pseudonym. Employees have to register these pseudonyms with the managers; this is for accountability purposes. IRS also runs the Unauthorized Access (UNAX) program. UNAX program offers employees’ awareness on consequences of compromising data like losing the public’s confidence (Internal Revenue Manual, n.d.). There is also strict legislation on breaching of Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Personal safety also comprises of harassment, taxpayer contacting an employee with no legitimate communication, and taxpayer’s aggression towards IRS employees. The well-guided procedure on the use of pseudonyms shows the extent at which IRS puts into concern its information security standards. On its key principles, IRS works towards protecting individuals’ rights to privacy. IRS can distribute these data only when they are authorized by federal legislation. The employees can be allowed to access these taxpayers’ data. In case of information leakage to wrong or unauthorized persons during this process, these groups of people become liable. The law requires them not to leak any taxpayer’s information in any format, either electronic formats or hardcopy documents, to any person. The agency goes ahead to conduct in-house trainings to these groups of people in order to remind them of their daily expectations. Moreover, the senior management is always in the forefront in ensuring that the employees adhere to the privacy policy and data security procedures. In case of non-compliance, the senior management applies penalties in line with the IRS policy and guidelin es. The IRS Privacy Principles include the following: It is a public trust to protect employees and taxpayers’ privacies, information are only collected upon request from the tax management, these information are used for a specific purpose, and reliable information are to be obtained from individuals who relate to them (Internal Revenue Service Topics Page, n.d.). In their services and roles, IRS stipulates that its employees, visitors and contractors must adhere to the federal privacy guidelines. IRS system owners are expected to be formulating and promoting effective and efficient information protection, employee and taxpayer policy, and information security programs.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The different divisions in IRS enhance service delivery as specialization does increases work output. The information security standard is enhanced through IRS partnership with Government Liaison and Disclosure. The partnership ensures that the privacy policy applied in the agency is in accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974. It also facilitates the development and distribution of periodical reviews that update the changes on information protection policy. The Information Security Standards for IRS uphold privacy of data. However, monitoring of people as they access information in the internet shows that privacy is at the same time not fully upheld. The idea of tracking for collecting statistical data is revoking the same provisions of information security as it results to tracking (IRS Has Improved Controls but Needs to Resolve Weaknesses, 2013). From this point of view, information in the World Wide Web seems to expose a persons privacy such as location and computer information l ike internet protocol address. Although IRS has made tremendous steps towards achieving total information protection, it still requires effective implementation of the information security program. Some of the components of security, which have not met their targets or operated effectively, include the IRS procedure of testing on the financial system. Data privacy is essential in element in any organization. IRS should ensure that all their security programs are effective thus working towards meeting their objectives. In the end, the improved services will raise taxpayers’ confidence, trust, and loyalty. References IRS Has Improved Controls but Needs to Resolve Weaknesses. (2013, March 15).U.S. Government Accountability Office (U.S. GAO). Web. Internal Revenue Manual. (n.d.).  Internal Revenue Service. Web. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). (2013, March 7).  USA.gov: The U.S. Governments Official Web Portal. Web. Internal Revenue Service Topics Page. (n.d.).  USA TODAY: L atest World and US News USATODAY.com. Web. US Tax Center. (n.d.).  US Tax Center | File Your Tax Return Online, Tax Extension, Tax Forms, Tax Help. Web.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Financial services for corporate clients ( Financial analysis + Speech or Presentation

Financial services for corporate clients ( Financial analysis + financial calculations) - Speech or Presentation Example It may be because the inventory turnover was lower and it increased the cost of sales therefore they should focus on their supply chain management. All the businesses need to finance their operations in order to make it a going concern otherwise it will be liquidated or bankrupt. Short- term financing refers to financing the day to day operations or expenses such as purchase of raw materials, paying administrative and rental expenses or paying electricity bills. Since as it can be seen from the net cash flow from operating activities table, that the firm has a positive net cash flow from operating activities therefore it can meet those operating needs easily thus short term financing needs could be easily met by the business if it generates sufficient sales in the future. The company can utilize trade credits by using discounts since they already have positive cash flows and can save a great deal of amount. Medium term financing requirements generally expand from a period exceeding one year but have a time horizon of lesser than five years. These types of financing are used to modernize the machineries or equipment or used to improve the facilities. The company needs to incur medium term costs but it is self sufficient and it can finance its medium term needs from its positive cash flows. Long term financing is used to finance fixed assets or used for capital budgeting purpose. To expand its operations, Gulf trading needs long term financing and it can use the various options available to it. Since it has a positive profitability with an average debt-equity ratio, it would be a feasible option to finance through bonds. It can raise debt since it has a very higher time to interest ratio than the industry implying that it can redeem its dues in a timely manner. However, it should be understand that the debt to equity ratio should not exceed the