Articles by Elyssa Carlos

Tax ID Theft is on the Rise. Are You Protected?

There’s been a 45% increase in tax identity theft since the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re dealing with tax identity theft, it could affect when you receive your tax refund! Optima CEO David King and Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang explain what tax fraud is, how your sensitive tax information can be used against you, and […]

How are Royalties Taxed?

Royalties represent payments made to an individual or entity for the ongoing use of their assets, such as intellectual property, natural resources, or creative works. These payments can provide a significant income stream, but they also come with tax implications that vary based on the type of royalty and the jurisdiction. Here’s a comprehensive look […]

What is Schedule A?

Schedule A is a tax form used in the United States for itemizing deductions on individual tax returns. Taxpayers opt for this form to maximize their deductions beyond the standard deduction provided by the IRS. This can lead to significant tax savings, especially for those with substantial deductible expenses. This article will cover the essentials […]

Optima Tax Relief Wins Three Stevie Awards for Excellence in Customer Service

Optima Tax Relief is proud to announce that it has been honored with three prestigious Stevie® Awards, showcasing its commitment to delivering exceptional customer service in the financial services sector. The awards include the Silver Award for Customer Service Department of the Year, the Bronze Award for Front-Line Customer Service Team of the Year, and the Silver […]

Tax Evasion vs. Tax Avoidance

Taxation is essential for funding public services and infrastructure. However, compliance with tax regulations varies, leading to the practices of tax evasion and tax avoidance. These terms, often confused, represent two different behaviors. This article goes into the specifics of tax evasion and tax avoidance, illustrated with specific examples to clarify their differences and implications.  […]