Articles by Elyssa Carlos

How Does Alimony Affect Your Taxes?

Divorce can be a complex and emotionally challenging process, with numerous financial and legal considerations to address. One crucial aspect often overlooked is the impact of alimony on your taxes. Alimony, also known as spousal support or maintenance, is a regular payment made by one spouse to another after divorce or separation. While it’s essential […]

Ask Phil: Mitigating & Removing IRS Penalties & Interest

Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses penalties and interest again, but this time gives tips on how to mitigate and even remove them.   Penalties and interest can quickly get out of hand. The best way to mitigate them is to pay your tax liability. We understand that this may not […]

Tax Differences Between Short-Term and Long-Term Rentals

The taxation of long-term and short-term rentals can differ significantly. These differences are primarily driven by the distinct nature of these rental arrangements and the objectives of tax authorities. Here’s an overview of the key differences in how long-term and short-term rentals are taxed.   The 14-Day Rule  Under the 14-day rule, if you rent […]

Tax Deductions You Can Claim Without Itemizing

Tax season can be a stressful time for many individuals, but it can also bring some relief in the form of deductions that can lower your overall tax liability. While itemizing deductions can often yield significant tax savings, not everyone has enough eligible expenses to make it worthwhile. However, you can still benefit from various […]

Which Income Types Are Not Taxable?

Taxes are an integral part of our financial lives, but not all income is subject to taxation. Understanding which income types are taxable and which are not can help you make informed financial decisions and potentially reduce your tax burden. In this article, we’ll explore various income sources that are not taxable, shedding light on […]