Tax time can be a stressful period for individuals and businesses alike. However, maintaining accurate and organized tax records throughout the year can make the process much smoother and alleviate unnecessary headaches. Whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or an individual taxpayer, this guide will provide you with valuable tips on how to keep […]
When Does the IRS Pursue Criminal Charges?
Tax evasion and tax fraud are federal crimes. Both involve the willful attempt to either evade the assessment or the payment of taxes. But at what point does the IRS pursue criminal charges for these actions? What consequences are included in the criminal charges? How does one prevent these charges from being brought upon them? […]
Can I Have a Passport If I Owe Back Taxes?
A passport is an essential travel document that allows individuals to explore new horizons, visit foreign lands, and experience diverse cultures. However, the privilege of holding a passport comes with certain responsibilities, one of which is fulfilling your financial obligations to the government. In this blog article, we will explore the question of whether you […]
Ask Phil: How Does IRS Enforcement Work?
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses IRS enforcement, including the statute of limitations and how it might affect your credit report. Did you know the IRS has a certain amount of time to collect your tax debt before it expires? How long? Well, the simple answer is 10 years, but several […]
Optima Newsletter – June 2023
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and Taxes Bankruptcy is an exhausting process that individuals and corporations may have to go through when they are overburdened by financial obligations. While it provides the opportunity for a fresh start, it is critical to be mindful of the tax implications. In this blog article, we will discuss the tax implications […]
Tax Benefits of Flexible Spending Accounts
Last week, we discussed the tax benefits of health savings accounts (HSAs). HSAs are tax-advantaged savings accounts specifically designed for individuals with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). For those who do not have an HDHP, there are other options when it comes to paying for medical expenses. Enter flexible savings accounts, or FSAs. These can help […]
Ask Phil: How Do IRS Penalties and Interest Work?
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses penalties and interest, including the most common penalties and how interest rates are calculated. Failure to File Penalties Owing the IRS is much more than just owing a tax balance. The IRS also charges penalties and interest, the most common penalties being the Failure to […]
Tax Benefits of Health Savings Accounts
In today’s world, where healthcare costs are constantly rising, finding smart and effective ways to save money is crucial. One such method that has gained popularity in recent years is the Health Savings Account (HSA). Not only does an HSA allow individuals to set aside funds for medical expenses, but it also offers significant tax […]
Marriage Bonuses vs. Marriage Penalties
Marriage can be a wonderful milestone in life. But in the midst of planning a wedding and a future with your significant other, you may not be thinking about how your new union will affect your tax bill. One critical tax factor to examine is the concept of marriage bonuses and marriage penalties. These terms […]
Optima’s Visit with The IRS – 5,000 New Agents, Strategic Operating Plan, & more.
Optima CEO David King and Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang are back from their trip to Washington D.C., where they met with members of Congress and the IRS’s new leadership to discuss what’s new in the tax world. Here is Phil and David’s recap of Optima’s visit with the IRS, including the IRS’s Strategic Operating […]