Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses how owing back taxes can affect your travel plans, including renewing your passport or obtaining one for the first time. Here’s what you need to know about passports and taxes. You might be wondering what your passport has to do with taxes. The IRS works with […]
Head of Household Filing Status Explained
When tax season rolls around, individuals and families are presented with a myriad of choices regarding how to file their taxes. One such choice is determining your filing status. One often misunderstood but highly beneficial filing status is “Head of Household.” In this article, we will break down the details of the Head of Household […]
Tax Benefits of Donor-Advised Funds
Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) have emerged as a powerful tool that not only allows philanthropists to make a positive impact but also offers substantial tax benefits. By understanding the advantages of DAFs, you can optimize your giving strategy for the causes you care about. Here’s an overview of the tax benefits of donor-advised funds. What are […]
How to Request a Tax Transcript From the IRS
When it comes to financial matters, accurate documentation is key. The IRS maintains various types of transcripts that provide a detailed record of your tax-related activities. Whether you need a tax transcript for tax filing, loan applications, or personal financial planning, understanding how to request IRS transcripts is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you […]
How Freelancers Can Avoid Surprising Tax Bills
The allure of freelancing lies in its flexibility and independence, allowing individuals to pursue their passions while managing their own time. However, freelancers often find themselves grappling with financial complexities, particularly when it comes to taxes. One of the most dreaded scenarios is receiving an unexpected tax bill. In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies […]
Ask Phil: No More Surprise RO Visits
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses an important update regarding surprise RO visits. The IRS just announced that it is discontinuing home visits as an enforcement method. This means the days of intimidating revenue officers (ROs) knocking on your door are over. Instead, you will receive IRS Letter 725-B, which serves […]
Optima Newsletter – August 2023
Tax Tips for Seniors and Retirees As the golden years approach, seniors and retirees face a new set of financial challenges, with tax planning becoming increasingly important. Understanding the tax implications of retirement income sources, investments, and deductions can significantly impact a retiree’s financial well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore some valuable tax tips […]
How State Residency Affects Your Taxes
When it comes to taxes, the old adage “location, location, location” takes on a new meaning. State residency plays a significant role in determining the taxes you owe, as each state has its own tax laws, rates, and regulations. Things get even more tricky if you work and live in two different states. In this […]
How to File Past-Due Tax Returns
Life can sometimes throw us curveballs, and as a result, important tasks like filing tax returns can fall through the cracks. If you find yourself in a situation where you have past-due tax returns, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to avoid penalties and legal complications. In this article, we’ll walk you through a […]
IRS Ends Surprise Visits from Revenue Officers
The IRS recently announced it is ending its longstanding practice of surprise in-person visits to taxpayers. Optima CEO David King and Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang provide helpful insight on what communication you can expect to receive from a Revenue Officer moving forward and what you can do to resolve your tax burden with the […]