In one of the largest Treasury check fraud cases to emerge from Massachusetts, federal authorities have charged eight individuals with allegedly stealing $8.8 million in tax refunds that belonged to legitimate taxpayers. The scheme unfolded across Eastern Massachusetts in 2023 and 2024, affecting multiple communities and financial institutions. Three of the eight defendants have already […]
Estimated Quarterly Tax Payments Explained
For freelancers, self-employed individuals, and small business owners, managing finances is an integral part of their professional journey. One key aspect of financial responsibility is handling taxes. For those with income not subject to withholding, estimated quarterly taxes become a crucial obligation. In this article, we will explore what estimated quarterly taxes are, why they […]
Common IRS Penalties & How to Avoid Them
Owing the IRS doesn’t just stop with your tax balance. If your tax obligations are not met, you could face penalties that can make your debt even more unmanageable. Understanding common IRS penalties and how to avoid them is essential for taxpayers to stay on the right side of the law and minimize financial consequences. […]
How Does Self-Employment Tax Work?
If you’re self-employed, you likely know that managing your taxes can feel more complicated than simply having an employer deduct them from your paycheck. One of the most critical aspects of your tax responsibility is self-employment tax, which covers Social Security and Medicare contributions. In this guide, we’ll break down what self-employment tax is, how […]
How Tax Relief Works
Owing the IRS can be one of the most stressful situations a taxpayer can face. Recent data shows that American taxpayers owed over $316 billion in back taxes, penalties, and interest as of the end of 2022. Much of this debt can be attributed to late filing, mathematical errors, and underreported income. Whatever the reason […]
What is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
The IRS Fresh Start Program is a series of initiatives and policy changes launched in 2011 and expanded since, designed to assist individuals and businesses in resolving their federal tax liabilities. This collection of provisions makes it easier for taxpayers to manage and settle their tax debt, offering various options to pay off what they […]
What Parents of Children with Special Needs Can Deduct
Raising a child or dependent with special needs is both rewarding and challenging. Along with the emotional and time commitments, families often face substantial financial burdens. Specialized therapies, educational support, equipment, and medical care can cost thousands of dollars each year. Thankfully, there are special needs deductions, credits, and savings strategies designed to help parents […]
Two Big IRS Deadlines You Can’t Miss: Sept 15 & Oct 15 | Optima Tax Relief
Are you self-employed or earning income outside of a W-2? You may need to make estimated tax payments by September 15. And don’t forget about another important IRS deadline coming up: the October 15 extension deadline. Optima Tax Relief CEO David King and Chief Tax Officer & Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang break down two […]
How to Respond to IRS Letter 1058: The Final Warning Before a Levy
Key Takeaways: Receiving a notice from the IRS can be overwhelming, but some letters demand immediate attention. IRS Letter 1058, formally known as the Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing, is one of the most urgent communications you can receive. It signals that the IRS is […]
Optima Newsletter – September
Social Security Survivor Benefits and Taxes: What Widows Should Expect When a spouse passes away, it can feel like your world has been turned upside down. Beyond the emotional weight of grief, there are also significant financial considerations to manage. Among the most critical are Social Security survivor benefits. For many widows, these benefits offer […]