You’ve always filed your income tax returns electronically in the past. Your returns were less vulnerable to calculation errors and you received your tax refund much quicker than you did filing paper returns. But this year, when you attempted to e-file your federal income tax return, the IRS rejected your submission, issuing a statement that […]
April 2022 Sees IRS Interest Rates Increase
As of April 1, 2022, the IRS raised its interest rates for the quarter. These changes apply to quarterly taxpayers, such as corporations and self-employed filers. The IRS announced the new rates as follows: How higher IRS interest rates affect your liability Liabilities accrue interest over time, so it’s likely that an outstanding balance will […]
Optima Newsletter – February 2022
Reduced Refunds: Will Your Refund Be Garnished?You may have already received your tax documents for the 2022 season and it’s time to file. Many taxpayers experience some anxiety around filing season because of uncertainty. Will you owe the IRS? Will your refund be garnished? There are a few instances where you can expect the IRS to reduce […]
How to Choose a Qualified Tax Preparer
Working with a qualified tax preparer can lessen the likelihood of delays and mistakes when you file. What makes a tax preparer qualified? Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang and CEO David King discuss tips for choosing your tax preparer. The Tax Show hosts cover types of tax professionals, credentials, minimum requirements, and red flags to […]
Dive into Pending, Delayed, & Missing Tax Returns
From the start, the COVID-19 pandemic has been the biggest setback for the IRS. Millions of Americans have been waiting for tax returns and refunds from previous years, causing even more delay for 2022. If your returns from last year are still pending, then your return will be delayed this year as well. How to […]
Side Hustles and Taxes: What You Need to Know
Have you ever used PayPal or Venmo? These third-party payment apps have gained the attention of the IRS. Many Americans use these apps casually for group outings, while others have been using them for their side-hustle transactions. Filing requirements have drastically changed in 2021, now requiring taxpayers to report income of $600 or more using […]
Selling Real Estate While You Owe Taxes
Are you preparing to sell a property, but you have a tax liability? Liens can be a hindrance to real estate transactions, but they don’t have to be. Optima’s Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang shares some vital tips with CEO David King on how to deal with your lien before selling. The Tax Show hosts […]
Optima Newsletter – January 2022
2022 Filing Reminders It’s the start of a new year, which means that tax season is right around the corner. A few things have changed in the last couple of years, so it’s important to make sure you’re up to date on current tax news before you file.Read More IRS Enforcement is Back! What You […]
What is Expense Fraud?
Employees are usually reimbursed for work-related expenses. When you file or report these expenses, it’s important to make sure the numbers are as accurate as possible. Over-claiming expenses, turning in receipts for unused items, or even spending more than the allowed amount are common expense fraud offenses. Whether you’re an employer or employee, it’s important […]
IRA Hardship Withdrawal: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re facing financial hard times, your retirement funds begin to look like a good source of much-needed cash. In cases of dire emergency, you may indeed be able to make withdrawals from those funds before you reach retirement age. However, the potential short-term and long-term consequences can be severe. Nonetheless, if you must make […]