In a move signaling a significant shift in fiscal policy, 14 states across the United States implemented cuts to individual income taxes in 2024. This development comes as states reassess their tax structures amid changing economic landscapes and evolving political priorities. Here’s a breakdown of the 14 states that cut their income tax rates in 2024. […]
Optima Newsletter – March 2024
Hoping for the Child Tax Credit? Don’t Wait to File The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a bill that has the potential to grant families significant tax benefits. The aim is to strengthen tax breaks, offering substantial financial support to American households and leading to significant savings. Among the many items addressed in the […]
Net Investment Income Explained
Net Investment Income (NII) is a crucial concept in finance, particularly for investors, financial planners, and those subject to taxation. It encompasses various forms of income derived from investment assets, such as interest, dividends, capital gains, rental income, and more. Understanding NII is essential for optimizing investment strategies, tax planning, and financial decision-making. This article […]
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. […]
Which Tax Professionals are Qualified to Work with the IRS on My Behalf?
When facing the difficult task of dealing with the IRS, individuals and businesses often seek assistance from tax professionals. These tax pros can help navigate the complexities of tax laws and regulations. However, not everyone is qualified to represent taxpayers before the IRS. So, which tax professionals are qualified to work the IRS on your […]
How Unemployment Affects Your Taxes
If you spent time unemployed last year, you might be wondering how that’ll affect your tax return this year, especially if it was your first time ever being without work. When it comes to unemployment and taxes, you might have some questions. Here’s a breakdown of how unemployment affects your taxes. Is Unemployment Taxable? Perhaps […]
Tax Guide for New Investors
When considering investing, you may first daydream of the potential rewards of the risky endeavor. But as a new investor, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of taxes. However, understanding the basics of taxation can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes during tax time. In this brief tax guide for […]
Ask Phil: What is a Tax Attorney?
Today, Phil explains what a tax attorney is, including what it takes to become one and how they can help you with your tax issues. What is a Tax Attorney? A tax attorney is a legal professional who specializes in tax law. They are trained and experienced in dealing with complex tax issues, including tax […]
What is the Kiddie Tax?
Navigating the complexities of taxes can be challenging for anyone. When it comes to families with children, there are additional considerations to be aware of. One such consideration is the IRS Kiddie Tax. This set of rules is specifically aimed at taxing unearned income of certain children at their parent’s tax rate. Understanding how the […]
How Much Do I Owe the IRS?
Discovering that you owe back taxes to the IRS can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether due to oversight, financial hardship, or other circumstances, it’s essential to address this issue promptly and accurately. However, determining the exact amount of back taxes owed can be complex. In this article, we’ll outline steps and resources to […]