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<p>Tuned a Steinway M today that did belong to one customer, now belongs to another, who has become a good friend over the years. I had been on the lookout for the right piano for this gentleman for a couple of years and introduced the two people.</p>
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<p>After tuning it, he wrote me a check and said "I'm adding $200 to this in appreciation for finding me this great piano." </p>
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<p>"Wow," says I, "Thanks". It was a total surprise because I had not asked for or expected any finders or sellers fees and really didn't do much more than make a couple of phone calls.</p>
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<p>Question: Is this $200 a gift, or is it a "fee" that I have to report as business income for taxes?</p>
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<p>Seems like a grey area to me.</p>
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<p>Alan Barnard<br />Salem, MO<br /></p>
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