Dealing with debt can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Imagine, though, finally having a weight lifted off your shoulders when a creditor cancels or forgives a portion of your outstanding debt. While the relief might be immense, it’s essential to understand that canceled debt can have significant tax implications. Many individuals are unaware that […]
Ask Phil: Top Tips to Avoid IRS Audits
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses his 5 top tips for how to avoid an IRS audit. File Your Taxes: Some taxpayers don’t file because they think they don’t have to. The minimum requirement to file a tax return depends on your filing status and income, but generally most U.S. citizens […]
Tax Tips for Resident and Non-Resident Aliens: Part 2
When it comes to filing taxes as a resident or non-resident alien, the first step is determining your alien status for tax purposes. If you satisfy the requirements of either the IRS green card test or the substantial presence test, you will be considered a resident alien for tax purposes. If you cannot meet the […]
Tax Tips for Resident and Non-Resident Aliens: Part 1
Did you know you are required to pay taxes on your income even if you are not an American citizen? The same is true even if you spend some of your time abroad. One important thing to note, however, is the way you are taxed is determined by your alien status. In other words, resident […]
AGI vs. MAGI
Most taxpayers are used to seeing the term adjusted gross income, or AGI, when filing their tax returns. This is mostly due to the fact that your AGI dictates which tax credits and deductions you qualify for. While the term modified adjusted gross income, or MAGI, is not heard as often, it too plays a […]