Tax identity theft is one of the fastest-growing forms of fraud, and most victims don’t realize anything is wrong until the IRS rejects their tax return or sends a notice about income they never earned. Because scammers often strike early in the filing season, your best defense is being able to spot the early signs of tax identity […]
IRS Collections Full Force After Government Shutdown: What Taxpayers Need to Know | Optima Tax Relief
Curious how the end of the government shutdown affects your tax situation? CEO David King and Chief Tax Officer & Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang break down which IRS services are back online, what the extended e-filing season means for taxpayers who owe, and why acting quickly matters as penalties and interest continue to compound […]
Someone Filed a Fraudulent Tax Return in My Name. Now What?
Discovering that someone has filed a fraudulent tax return in your name can be alarming and overwhelming. Tax identity theft affects thousands of Americans each year, with criminals using stolen Social Security numbers and personal information to claim refunds. The consequences can ripple across your finances, credit, and future tax filings. Taking immediate, informed action is critical to mitigate […]
Can the IRS Take My 401(k)?
Owing back taxes is a stressful situation for many Americans. With it comes fear over what the IRS can do to collect. One common concern is whether your hard-earned retirement savings, specifically your 401(k), are at risk. The short answer: yes, the IRS can take your 401(k) under certain conditions. But it’s not their first […]
Tax Shelters: Meaning, Examples & How They Work
Tax shelters have long been a topic of interest and controversy in the world of finance and taxation. They can serve as valuable tools for individuals and corporations seeking to minimize their tax liabilities. However, the use of tax shelters often raises ethical and legal questions. This article dives into what tax shelters are, how […]
Can the IRS Seize a Legal Settlement If You Owe?
Dealing with the IRS is stressful enough, but when you’re expecting a lawsuit settlement, the stakes feel even higher. One of the most common questions taxpayers ask is: Can the IRS seize a settlement? The short answer: Yes, the IRS can seize or levy certain types of settlement payments if you owe federal tax debt. However, the long answer is far […]
How Much Do Billionaires Pay in Taxes?
This article explains how billionaires are taxed, why their effective tax rates differ, what the data shows about their real contributions, and how tax policy changes continue to affect what they pay. Understanding Billionaire Taxation Before exploring how much billionaires pay in taxes, it’s important to understand how the U.S. tax system works, and how the ultra-wealthy […]
How to Apply for the IRS Fresh Start Program
Key Takeaways Millions of Americans face challenges with unpaid taxes, and the IRS Fresh Start Program offers a structured path to relief. Originally launched to help taxpayers overcome financial hardship without harsh collection actions, this initiative remains a vital lifeline for individuals and small businesses. If you’ve ever wondered how to apply for the […]
AI Tax Tools for Small Businesses
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the way small businesses handle taxes. What used to require hours of manual data entry, form-checking, and compliance tracking can now be automated and analyzed with remarkable accuracy. AI-powered tax tools give small business owners the power to simplify filing, minimize errors, and stay compliant, without needing to become tax […]
Active-Duty Military Tax Benefits: What You Can Deduct and How to Qualify
Military service comes with many sacrifices; and thankfully, the IRS recognizes that with special tax benefits for those who serve. From combat pay exclusions to deductions for moving costs and uniform maintenance, active-duty military members are eligible for a variety of tax breaks that can significantly reduce their overall tax burden. Understanding these benefits can […]