In 2025, the IRS is facing a shifting landscape. Although enforcement funding surged in 2022, recent federal budget negotiations, specifically the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Act cuts, have reduced that long-term funding outlook. But don’t let that fool you into thinking audits are going away. Instead of scaling back, the IRS is getting more […]
Article from June 2025
Optima Tax Relief Rallies Employees to Provide Over One Ton of Assistance During Annual Donation Drive
Company-wide effort delivers over one ton of essential goods to local nonprofits serving Orange County’s most vulnerable Optima Tax Relief proudly concluded its annual community donation drive on June 11th and 12th, reaffirming the company’s commitment to serving not only its clients but also the greater community. The two-day event, held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 […]
Can You Deduct Therapy? A Guide to Mental Health and Medical Tax Deductions
Understanding how the IRS treats mental health expenses is essential if you’re trying to reduce your tax bill while investing in your well-being. With therapy costs rising and more people prioritizing mental health, it’s a fair question to ask: Can you deduct therapy? The answer is yes, but only under certain conditions. This guide explains […]
How AI Tools Are Changing Tax Prep and What to Watch Out For
AI tools are revolutionizing tax preparation by automating tedious tasks, improving accuracy, and helping both individuals and professionals file taxes faster. However, these tools still have limits—and taxpayers should understand the risks before relying entirely on artificial intelligence. The Rise of AI in Tax Preparation AI is changing how taxes are prepared by automating data […]
Why Did I Get a Refund from the IRS but Owe My State?
It’s a situation many taxpayers find themselves in every year: they receive a refund from the IRS after filing their federal tax return, only to discover that they owe money to their state. This outcome can be both confusing and frustrating. After all, if you overpaid your taxes to the federal government, how is it […]