Higher education is one of the most significant investments individuals can make. However, the rising cost of tuition can be a financial burden. To help ease this burden, the IRS offers various tax credits for education-related expenses. One such credit is the Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC). The LLC provides taxpayers with an opportunity to reduce […]
What Does My IRS Notice Mean?
Receiving an IRS notice can be stressful, but understanding what it means is the first step toward resolving your tax situation. In Part 2 of our IRS Notices series, CEO David King and Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang explain what your notice means and outline the key steps you can take to resolve your tax […]
IRS Announces Interest Rates for Q2 of 2025
The IRS has announced that interest rates for the second quarter of 2025 will remain unchanged from the first quarter. These rates apply to tax overpayments, underpayments, large corporate underpayments, and corporate overpayments exceeding certain thresholds. While the rates remain steady, their impact on taxpayers and businesses remains significant. Understanding these interest rates is crucial […]
Understanding Tax Withholding
Tax withholding is a concept that many individuals encounter throughout their lives, whether as employees, freelancers, or business owners. Withholding too little tax from your paychecks can result in a tax bill during tax time, while withholding too much tax can result in smaller paychecks than necessary. That being said, understanding tax withholding is crucial […]
What is Form 1098-T?
Form 1098-T is an important tax document for students and parents navigating education-related tax benefits. Issued by eligible educational institutions, this form provides details on tuition and related expenses. It is meant to help taxpayers determine their eligibility for valuable tax credits. Understanding Form 1098-T is essential for students and families looking to reduce their […]
What Are Capital Gains?
Capital gains represent the profit earned when an asset is sold for more than its original purchase price. This concept is crucial for investors, homeowners, and anyone involved in the buying and selling of valuable assets. Understanding how capital gains work and their tax implications can help individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions and […]
What is an IRS Lien Discharge?
An IRS tax lien can create significant financial burdens for individuals and businesses alike. When a taxpayer fails to pay their federal tax debt, the IRS may place a lien on their property. This secures its interest in the taxpayer’s assets. This lien can make it difficult to sell property, secure loans, or conduct other […]
Do Tax Advocates Really Help?
Dealing with the IRS can be overwhelming, especially for taxpayers facing financial hardship. Tax advocates play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals and businesses receive fair treatment and assistance in resolving tax issues. These professionals act as intermediaries, helping taxpayers manage IRS matters while ensuring compliance with tax laws. Whether dealing with delayed refunds, […]
Optima Newsletter – March 2025
What Are Capital Gains? Capital gains represent the profit earned when an asset is sold for more than its original purchase price. This concept is crucial for investors, homeowners, and anyone involved in the buying and selling of valuable assets. Understanding how capital gains work and their tax implications can help individuals and businesses make […]
Ask Phil: How Do Natural Disasters Affect My Taxes?
Today, Optima Tax Relief Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, discusses what tax relief options are available to taxpayers affected by the natural disasters, like the Southern California wildfires and East Coast hurricanes. Casualty Losses Casualty losses are financial losses from unexpected events like hurricanes, wildfires, or theft. To qualify for a deduction, the loss must […]