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Articles by Elyssa Carlos

Ask Phil: The 411 on Tax Refunds

Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses tax refunds, including how to track when you’ll receive yours.  When it comes to tax refunds, most taxpayers want to know one of three things: how much they will receive, where it is, and when they will receive it. By the time you file your […]

Filing Taxes When Married to a Non-U.S. Citizen

Marriage can introduce complexity when it comes to filing taxes. When you’re married to a non-U.S. citizen, your tax situation may require additional consideration. In this article, we’ll explore the key factors to consider and offer guidance on how to navigate the U.S. tax system as a couple with mixed citizenship.  Determine Your Filing Status  […]

Do I Have to Report Tips on My Tax Return?

Tips, gratuities, or service charges – these additional payments to service workers are a common part of our daily lives. Whether you’re leaving a tip for your waiter, bartender, taxi driver, or hairdresser, it’s essential to know how these earnings should be handled from a tax perspective. The short answer is yes, you generally do […]

Ask Phil: When is the 2023 Tax Extension Deadline?

Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses the October tax extension deadline.   The tax extension deadline this year is October 16, 2023. Remember, an extension to file your taxes is not an extension to pay your taxes. But what if you’re still unable to pay your tax bill? One option is to […]

Do I Need Health Insurance to File Taxes?

Filing taxes can be a complex and daunting task, with various rules and regulations to consider. One common question that often arises is whether you need health insurance to file taxes. The answer to this question is intricately tied to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and its provisions. In this article, we’ll explore the relationship […]