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Articles by Elyssa Carlos

Do Tax Advocates Really Help? 

Dealing with the IRS can be overwhelming, especially for taxpayers facing financial hardship. Tax advocates play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals and businesses receive fair treatment and assistance in resolving tax issues. These professionals act as intermediaries, helping taxpayers manage IRS matters while ensuring compliance with tax laws. Whether dealing with delayed refunds, […]

Optima Newsletter – March 2025

What Are Capital Gains?  Capital gains represent the profit earned when an asset is sold for more than its original purchase price. This concept is crucial for investors, homeowners, and anyone involved in the buying and selling of valuable assets. Understanding how capital gains work and their tax implications can help individuals and businesses make […]

Ask Phil: How Do Natural Disasters Affect My Taxes? 

Today, Optima Tax Relief Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, discusses what tax relief options are available to taxpayers affected by the natural disasters, like the Southern California wildfires and East Coast hurricanes.   Casualty Losses  Casualty losses are financial losses from unexpected events like hurricanes, wildfires, or theft. To qualify for a deduction, the loss must […]

1099s Explained: Types

IRS Form 1099 is a crucial tax document used to report various types of income received outside of traditional employment. Now that we know the basics of IRS Form 1099, we can take a closer look at the different types of 1099s you can receive. Remember, if you received any income outside your employer, you might […]

What is the IRS? 

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is the federal agency responsible for administering and enforcing tax laws in the United States. Operating under the Department of the Treasury, the IRS plays a vital role in collecting taxes, processing tax returns, issuing refunds, and ensuring compliance with tax obligations. Understanding how the IRS functions is essential for […]