Selling on Etsy can be a rewarding venture, whether you’re crafting handmade jewelry, vintage finds, or unique digital downloads. However, as an Etsy seller, it’s essential to understand the tax implications of your business to ensure compliance and maximize your earnings. Here are some crucial tax tips to help you navigate-taxes as an Etsy seller. […]
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 […]
Are Incarcerated Individuals Required to File Taxes?
Many people believe that incarceration automatically removes a person’s obligation to file taxes. This assumption is understandable, but it is incorrect. The IRS does not exempt individuals from federal tax responsibilities simply because they are incarcerated. Instead, tax filing requirements depend on income, filing status, and the specific tax year in question, just as they […]
Schedule C Mistakes That Trigger IRS Audits
Filing Schedule C is unavoidable for sole proprietors, freelancers, and gig workers—but it also places your tax return under closer IRS scrutiny. Because Schedule C relies heavily on self-reported income and deductions, even small mistakes can raise red flags. In fact, many IRS audits involving Schedule C returns stem from common mistakes on Schedule C, not intentional […]
What Happens If You Ignore IRS Tax Debt? Timelines, Penalties, and Next Steps
Ignoring IRS tax debt is rarely an intentional decision, but it is a common one. Many taxpayers delay action out of fear, confusion, or the belief that the IRS will not act quickly. Unfortunately, when you ignore IRS tax debt, the consequences compound quietly and steadily, often becoming far more severe than the original balance […]
Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney at Optima Tax Relief, Phil Hwang, Appointed National Chair of IRS Taxpayer Advocacy Panel
Optima Tax Relief announced today that Philip Hwang, its Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, has been appointed National Chair of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP) for 2026. TAP is a Federal Advisory Committee to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), composed of approximately 75 citizen volunteers who listen to taxpayers, identify issues, and provide […]
Forgot to File Taxes for 3+ Years? Here’s What to Do
Forgot to File Taxes for 3+ Years? Here’s What to Do Forgetting to file taxes for several years is far more common than most people are willing to admit. Changes in employment, self-employment income, financial hardship, divorce, illness, or simply not understanding filing requirements can easily lead to multiple unfiled returns. Unfortunately, once one year is […]
What is the Safe Harbor Rule for Underpaying Estimated Tax?
The IRS requires most taxpayers to pay taxes throughout the year as income is earned, rather than waiting until a return is filed. When those payments fall short, the IRS may impose an underpayment penalty, even if the full tax bill is eventually paid. The safe harbor tax rules provide structured, predictable ways to avoid those […]
Tax Benefits of Health Savings Accounts
As healthcare costs continue to rise, more taxpayers are looking for ways to manage medical expenses without undermining their long-term financial goals. One of the most effective yet often misunderstood tools available is the Health Savings Account (HSA). While HSAs are commonly associated with paying for out-of-pocket medical costs, their true value lies in the significant tax […]
2026 Tax Brackets and Deductions
As the 2026 tax year approaches, taxpayers are beginning to plan for how inflation adjustments and legislative updates may affect their federal tax bills. Each year, the IRS updates tax brackets, standard deductions, and key thresholds to account for cost-of-living changes. In some years, new legislation, such as provisions tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill, can further shape […]