If you earn income that isn’t automatically taxed through payroll withholding, like freelance work, consulting, investments, or small business profits, you’re expected to make estimated tax payments four times a year. These quarterly payments help you stay current with the IRS so you don’t end up with a surprise bill and penalties at tax time. […]
How the IRS Finds Out About Your Assets
The IRS has a reputation for being one of the most powerful collection agencies in the world, and for good reason. When you owe back taxes or fail to report income, the IRS has multiple ways of uncovering what you own and where your money is. Many taxpayers wonder: how does the IRS find your […]
Will the IRS Negotiate If You Can’t Pay?
Will the IRS Negotiate if You Can’t Pay? If you’ve opened a notice from the IRS and realized you owe more than you can possibly pay, you may be wondering: can you negotiate with the IRS? The short answer: yes, the IRS will negotiate, but only within the boundaries of formal relief programs. Unlike a […]
Optima Newsletter-October
Common IRS Penalties and How to Avoid Them Owing the IRS doesn’t just stop with your tax balance. If your tax obligations are not met, you could face penalties that can make your debt even more unmanageable. Understanding common IRS penalties and how to avoid them is essential for taxpayers to stay on the right […]
How to Claim a Home Office Without Triggering an Audit
Remote work has gone mainstream and so has the home office deduction. For freelancers, small business owners, and self-employed professionals, it can be one of the most valuable tax breaks available. Yet, one question keeps surfacing every year: does the home office deduction trigger an audit? The short answer is no. However, claiming a legitimate deduction for a qualifying […]