Filing back taxes can already be stressful but doing it when you’re missing W-2s or 1099s adds another layer of complexity. The IRS still requires an accurate return even if documents are late, lost, or never provided. Fortunately, there is a clear process to follow. This guide explains what to do step-by-step, how to request missing forms, what your filing options are, and […]
IRS Revenue Officer vs Revenue Agent: What’s the Difference?
The IRS plays a critical role in ensuring that taxpayers comply with U.S. tax laws. Within the IRS, various professionals are tasked with different responsibilities, including revenue officers and revenue agents. While these roles may sound similar, they have distinct functions and purposes within the IRS. Understanding the difference between an IRS revenue officer and […]
What is Audit Reconsideration?
When the IRS completes an audit and assesses additional tax, penalties, or interest, many taxpayers feel trapped by the results, especially if they missed deadlines or didn’t have the documents needed during the audit. Fortunately, the IRS offers a remedy called audit reconsideration, which allows taxpayers to challenge the outcome of a completed audit without going through Appeals or Tax […]
How to Stop an IRS Levy
Facing an IRS levy can feel overwhelming, especially when your wages, bank account, or other property is at risk. Because a levy involves actual seizure, not just a claim, it is one of the most serious actions the IRS can take. Fortunately, taxpayers have several options to halt levies and negotiate a more manageable resolution. Understanding these options and taking […]
10 Warning Signs of Tax Identity Theft You Shouldn’t Ignore
Tax identity theft is one of the fastest-growing forms of fraud, and most victims don’t realize anything is wrong until the IRS rejects their tax return or sends a notice about income they never earned. Because scammers often strike early in the filing season, your best defense is being able to spot the early signs of tax identity […]
IRS Collections Full Force After Government Shutdown: What Taxpayers Need to Know | Optima Tax Relief
Curious how the end of the government shutdown affects your tax situation? CEO David King and Chief Tax Officer & Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang break down which IRS services are back online, what the extended e-filing season means for taxpayers who owe, and why acting quickly matters as penalties and interest continue to compound […]
Someone Filed a Fraudulent Tax Return in My Name. Now What?
Discovering that someone has filed a fraudulent tax return in your name can be alarming and overwhelming. Tax identity theft affects thousands of Americans each year, with criminals using stolen Social Security numbers and personal information to claim refunds. The consequences can ripple across your finances, credit, and future tax filings. Taking immediate, informed action is critical to mitigate […]
Can the IRS Take My 401(k)?
Owing back taxes is a stressful situation for many Americans. With it comes fear over what the IRS can do to collect. One common concern is whether your hard-earned retirement savings, specifically your 401(k), are at risk. The short answer: yes, the IRS can take your 401(k) under certain conditions. But it’s not their first […]
Tax Shelters: Meaning, Examples & How They Work
Tax shelters have long been a topic of interest and controversy in the world of finance and taxation. They can serve as valuable tools for individuals and corporations seeking to minimize their tax liabilities. However, the use of tax shelters often raises ethical and legal questions. This article dives into what tax shelters are, how […]
Can the IRS Seize a Legal Settlement If You Owe?
Dealing with the IRS is stressful enough, but when you’re expecting a lawsuit settlement, the stakes feel even higher. One of the most common questions taxpayers ask is: Can the IRS seize a settlement? The short answer: Yes, the IRS can seize or levy certain types of settlement payments if you owe federal tax debt. However, the long answer is far […]