A.'s 57 regional offices can request what amounts to an advance payment of their educational benefits.

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When most artists sign record deals, they hand over these rights in exchange for an advance payment, a smaller royalty of 10-15% on music sales and the prestige of recording an album for a major record label.

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The amount of the advance royalty payment generally is subject to U.S. tax in the year received (but there would be no further taxable royalty income in years 2 and 3).

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Besides the request for advance payment, the SEC and other sources list a number of other warning signs and wise practices to follow.

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