Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, shares three things he would never do as a taxpayer-and one thing he always makes sure to do every tax season. Don’t Trust Guaranteed Refund Promises If you’re hiring someone to prepare your taxes, it’s important to avoid anyone who guarantees the biggest refund. No legitimate tax professional can […]
Article from May 2026
Ask Phil: How a CP2000 Notice Can Delay Your IRS Tax Resolution
Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, shares his least favorite IRS notice—and surprisingly, it’s not the final levy notice many taxpayers fear. Instead, it’s the CP2000 notice. What Is a CP2000 Notice? A CP2000 notice is sent when the IRS believes you failed to report all of your income on your tax return. This usually happens when the income reported […]
Tax Identity Theft Protection: What It Is and Why You Need It in 2026
Tax identity theft protection has become one of the most important parts of financial security heading into the 2026 tax season. As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, taxpayers are facing increased risks from phishing scams, data breaches, fraudulent tax filings, and stolen Social Security numbers. In many cases, victims do not realize their information has been compromised […]
Tax Relief Companies: What to Look for Before You Sign
If you’re dealing with IRS tax burden, penalties, or escalating notices, you’re far from alone. Each year, millions of taxpayers explore their options and turn to tax relief companies for help navigating what can feel like an overwhelming system. These companies often position themselves as experts who can negotiate with the IRS, reduce your overall liability, and help you regain control of your […]
Ask Phil: Is Filing Taxes Voluntary?
Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, answers a common question: “Is filing taxes voluntary—do I really have to file?” The answer is yes… but also no. While the U.S. tax system is technically considered voluntary, there’s an important catch that taxpayers need to understand. What “Voluntary” Really Means The system is called voluntary […]