Receiving a tax refund can provide welcome financial relief, whether you plan to pay bills, build your savings, or cover everyday expenses. That’s why it can be alarming to discover that your state tax refund was seized or that the refund you were expecting never arrived. In many cases, a seized refund is not the result of […]
Article from July 2026
When to Call an IRS Criminal Tax Investigation Lawyer
Most interactions with the IRS involve civil matters, such as audits, collection notices, or unpaid tax balances. While these situations can be stressful, they are generally intended to determine the correct amount of tax owed or collect outstanding taxes. In some cases, however, the IRS may believe a taxpayer intentionally violated federal tax laws. When there is evidence of […]
What To Do If You Receive IRS Notice CP14
Receiving an IRS Notice CP14 can be stressful, but understanding what it means and how to respond is the first step toward resolving the issue. This notice is the first formal communication from the IRS indicating that you owe unpaid taxes. Ignoring it could lead to additional penalties and interest, so it is essential to address the situation promptly. Here’s an overview of […]
What are Education Credits and Deductions Every Student Should Claim?
Higher education can be expensive, but the tax code offers several valuable benefits that can help offset those costs. Unfortunately, many taxpayers either overlook these opportunities or are unsure whether they qualify. Understanding what education tax credits are and how they work can help students and families significantly reduce their tax burden. Education tax benefits generally fall into two […]
Ask Phil: Itemized Deductions vs. Standard Deduction — Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, breaks down one of the most common tax questions taxpayers face: Should you itemize your deductions or take the standard deduction? The answer depends on your individual financial situation and whether your eligible expenses exceed the standard deduction amount. Start with the Standard Deduction Before […]