Today, Optima Tax Relief Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, discusses a hot topic: tax brackets. We hear this term all the time, but what does it mean? And how can it affect the taxes you’re required to pay? What are tax brackets? Tax brackets determine how much federal income tax you owe based on your taxable […]
What is a Tax Lien?
A tax lien is a legal claim by a government authority, such as the IRS, against a taxpayer’s property due to unpaid tax debts. This claim acts as a security for the government, ensuring the taxpayer’s obligation is eventually fulfilled. Tax liens can significantly impact individuals and businesses, making it essential to understand their implications […]
2025 IRS Tax Inflation Adjustments
The IRS has announced its annual inflation adjustments for 2025, impacting a wide range of tax provisions. These adjustments are designed to prevent taxpayers from being pushed into higher tax brackets due to inflation. We’ve discussed the updated tax brackets and standard deductions in a previous post. Here’s a breakdown of the other most significant […]
What is the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion?
The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) is a provision in the U.S. tax code that allows eligible taxpayers to exclude a portion of their income earned abroad from U.S. taxation. This exclusion is particularly beneficial for Americans working and living overseas, as it helps reduce the potential burden of double taxation. Below, we explore how […]
Ask Phil: How Do Gift Taxes Work?
Today, Optima Tax Relief Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, talks about a popular giving season topic: gift taxes. Did you know gifting can sometimes lead to taxes owed? It’s the season of gifting, making things like real estate, cars, money, and almost everything else with monetary value subject to tax. The gift tax is a […]
What is Currently Not Collectible Status?
When taxpayers are unable to pay their tax liabilities, the IRS offers Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status. This temporarily suspends debt collection efforts by the IRS. It provides individuals with breathing room to get their finances under control. In this article, we will explore what CNC status entails, who may qualify for it, and how […]
2025 IRS Tax Brackets and Standard Deductions
With 2025 on the horizon, taxpayers are beginning to plan for how they will file their returns. The IRS updates tax brackets and standard deductions annually to account for inflation and legislative changes. This will affect how much individuals and families owe. Let’s examine the newly announced 2025 tax brackets and standard deductions, as well […]
How to Prepare for the New 1099-K Thresholds in 2025
The IRS will enforce new reporting thresholds for 1099-K forms starting in 2025. The changes will impact gig workers, freelancers, and small business owners, particularly those operating in the gig economy or e-commerce. Understanding these updates and planning accordingly can help avoid surprises come tax season. Let’s break down what’s changing with the 1099-K thresholds, […]
What is the IRS Federal Payment Levy Program?
The IRS Federal Payment Levy Program (FPLP) is a powerful tool the Internal Revenue Service uses to recover overdue tax debts by seizing federal payments owed to taxpayers. Introduced as part of a collaborative effort between the IRS and the Department of the Treasury’s Bureau of Fiscal Service, the FPLP ensures that individuals and businesses […]
Every Tax Deadline You Need to Know in 2025
Knowing important tax deadlines in 2025 is essential for staying compliant and avoiding late penalties. Whether you’re an individual taxpayer, business owner, freelancer, or part of a corporation, being informed far beyond the typical April 15th tax deadline is key. This guide covers every key tax deadline, from individual tax returns to quarterly filings for […]