When taxpayers owe the IRS a significant amount of money, the agency may place a federal tax lien on their assets. This lien serves as a legal claim against a taxpayer’s property, making it difficult to secure loans, refinance a mortgage, or sell assets. However, the IRS offers options that allow taxpayers to navigate these […]
Tax Implications of Selling a House
Selling a home can be a huge financial decision with numerous factors to consider. One of the most important factors might be the tax implications. While most might be eager to make a huge profit from selling their home, it is critical to understand the tax rules and regulations that apply to this transaction in […]
What is the Widow’s Penalty?
The “widow’s penalty” refers to the financial disadvantages that widows often face after the death of their partners. Losing a spouse is an emotionally overwhelming experience, and unfortunately, for many widows, the challenges extend beyond the realm of grief. This penalty manifests in various forms, from reduced Social Security benefits to inflated Required Minimum Distributions […]
What Documents Do I Need to File My Taxes?
Filing taxes can be a complicated process, especially if you are unsure which documents you need to have on hand. Missing key paperwork can lead to delays, miscalculations, and even penalties if your tax return is incorrect. Whether you file your own taxes or work with a tax professional, gathering the necessary documents beforehand will […]
GoFundMe: How are Donations Taxed?
Crowdfunding is the act of funding a project by collecting small donations from a large number of individuals, often via the internet. GoFundMe has become a powerful platform for individuals and organizations to raise funds for various causes. These range from medical expenses and emergency relief to community projects and personal aspirations. However, many users […]
What To Do If You Get an IRS Notice
Have you received a notice or letter from the IRS? Don’t panic! Optima Tax Relief CEO David King and Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang explain what your IRS notice means and offer solutions to resolve your tax burden. If You Need Tax Help, Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
Tax Attorney vs CPA: Understanding the Key Differences
When dealing with taxes, choosing the right professional can make a significant difference in your financial and legal outcomes. Tax attorneys and certified public accountants (CPAs) both offer specialized expertise, but their roles serve distinct purposes. A CPA focuses on tax preparation, accounting, and financial planning, while a tax attorney provides legal counsel, represents clients […]
What Medical Expenses Are Tax Deductible?
Tax deductions can drastically reduce your total tax liability and allow you to save money. While medical bills can be a significant hardship for many individuals and families, it is critical to understand that certain medical expenses are tax deductible. Understanding the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements will help you in optimizing your deductions and […]
Qualifying Widow(er) Filing Status Explained
The loss of a spouse is a challenging and emotional experience, and during such times, financial matters can add an extra layer of complexity. The tax implications of losing a spouse are among the many considerations that individuals may face. One important filing status that may apply to widows and widowers is the qualifying widow(er) […]
Ask Phil: What’s the Fastest Way to Get My Tax Refund?
Today, Optima Tax Relief Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, answers the question everyone wants to know during tax season: What’s the fastest way to get my tax refund? E-File E-filing your tax return is the fastest and most efficient way to receive your tax refund. When you file electronically and choose direct deposit, the IRS processes […]