The structure of modern families is changing. One of the most common developments is joint custody, where divorced or separated parents share the responsibilities of raising their children. This arrangement not only has a profound impact on the well-being of the children but also extends to various aspects of the parents’ lives, including their finances. In this […]
Ask Phil: Will Bankruptcy Discharge My Tax Debt?
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses bankruptcy, including if and when tax debt is discharged. When you file for bankruptcy, you are relieved from most of your debts, including credit card debt, medical bills, payday loans, utility bills, car loans, mortgages, and more. Many taxpayers want to know if bankruptcies also […]
Optima Newsletter – October 2023
How Does Alimony Affect 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 to ensure financial stability for the receiving spouse, it’s equally important to understand the tax implications of alimony, as they can significantly affect your financial […]
How Wash Sales Affect Your Taxes
Taxes are an inevitable part of financial life, and for investors, understanding how different transactions can impact their tax liability is crucial. One such transaction is a wash sale. Wash sales can have a significant effect on taxes. Investors should be well-versed in the rules and implications of these transactions to avoid costly mistakes. In […]
What is Schedule K-1?
When it comes to taxation and financial reporting, there are numerous forms and schedules that can often seem like a maze of complex regulations and requirements. One such document that many individuals and business owners encounter is Schedule K-1. This article aims to demystify Schedule K-1, explaining its purpose, who needs it, and the essential […]
IRS Interest Rate Increases for Q4 2023
As the fourth quarter of 2023 unfolds, taxpayers across the U.S are faced with an important development – an increase in IRS interest rates. The IRS periodically adjusts its interest rates, and these changes can have significant implications for individuals and businesses. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the IRS interest rate […]
What You Need to Know About Underpayment of Tax Penalties
Taxes are an essential part of a functioning society, providing the government with the necessary funds to provide public services and support various programs. However, when it comes to paying taxes, many individuals and businesses may find themselves making mistakes or underestimating their obligations. This can lead to tax underpayment, a situation that often incurs […]
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 […]
Don’t Fear IRS Form 1099-C
Perhaps the most feared and least understood document ever published by the IRS is Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt. Form 1099-C is sent to people who were so deep in debt, their creditors agreed to give them a break. They do this by either reducing or cancelling their debt altogether. Think foreclosures, short sales, credit card […]
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 […]