Wondering what stood out during the 2026 tax season? CEO David King and Chief Tax Officer & Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang break down major trends, including the IRS projection of over 20 million taxpayers filing extensions and what that signals for the filing landscape. Find out why so many filers requested extensions, how to […]
What to Do If You Owe Taxes in Multiple States
Owing taxes in more than one state can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure why it’s happening or how to fix it. Whether you moved during the year, worked remotely, or earned income across state lines, multi-state tax obligations are more common than ever. The key is understanding how state tax rules work so you can file correctly, avoid penalties, and minimize the risk of double taxation. This guide breaks down […]
Ask Phil: Can I Make a Payment Before Filing an Amended Return?
Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, answers another question from Reddit: “Can I make an estimated tax payment before filing a 1040-X?” A Form 1040-X is used to amend a previously filed tax return, and in this case, the taxpayer is looking to correct multiple years—possibly due to missing income. Understanding […]
Are Home Renovations Tax Deductible?
Homeownership often comes with ongoing upgrades, repairs, and renovation projects, but are these home renovations tax deductible? The answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no. While most renovations aren’t immediately deductible, certain improvements can provide valuable tax benefits through deductions, credits, or reduced capital gains when you sell your home. This guide breaks down exactly how home renovations affect your taxes, […]
What Do Tax Attorneys Do? Hiring Help for IRS Collections
Dealing with the IRS can feel overwhelming—especially when unpaid taxes lead to mounting penalties, aggressive notices, or collection actions like wage garnishments and bank levies. Many taxpayers find themselves asking the same question: what do tax attorneys do, and do I really need one? Tax attorneys are legal professionals who specialize in tax law and represent individuals and […]