Many taxpayers have questions surrounding their Economic Impact Payments (EIP). What to do if they haven’t received their latest stimulus check? Do they qualify to receive the full amount? How can they check the status of their payment? Optima CEO David King and Lead Tax Attorney Phillip Hwang provide answers to some of the most […]
Optima Newsletter – January 2021
The IRS and the Treasury Department have already begun to distribute a second round of stimulus checks to individuals. For those who opted for direct deposit, they can expect to receive their money very soon if they haven’t already. Taxpayers who are receiving their economic impact payment in check form, can expect to receive it […]
How to Claim a Domestic Partner as a Dependent
Every tax year, a large number of people are claimed as dependents on tax returns. Under certain circumstances, a dependent can be claimed if they are not related to you. Once someone is identified as a dependent and placed on your tax return, you’re essentially informing the IRS that you’re financially responsible for that person. […]
Optima Newsletter – December 2020
The CARES Act has allowed millions of student loan borrowers to pause their student loans until January 31st. For the time being, loan payments, interest and collections on defaulted federal loans have been put on hold in order to provide financial relief for those who were financially affected by COVID-19. Read more here McConnell Announces […]
Reducing Taxes on Your Holiday Bonus
As the spirit of generosity is in the air, companies and employees need to know that holiday bonuses are considered supplemental wages and subject to taxes. Holiday bonuses are viewed by the IRS as compensation, just like paychecks, so taxes need to be withheld from your holiday bonus. How Much are Holiday Bonuses Taxed? Some […]
Are Political Contributions Tax Deductible?
Many Americans show their support for their preferred political candidate by voting for or donating to the candidate’s political party. If you’re wondering if your financial contribution to a political campaign affects your taxes in any way, you’re not alone. Here’s everything you need to know about tax deductible contributions for political campaigns. Are Political […]
Optima Newsletter – November 2020
The ongoing pandemic has caused many Americans to suffer financially due to a loss of jobs and businesses shutting down. Proposals for another coronavirus relief package are currently ongoing and should include another stimulus check distributed out to taxpayers as well as providing assistance to businesses that are finding it difficult to stay open. Read […]
What Taxpayers need to know about Their Right to Finality
Optima Tax Relief provides assistance to individuals struggling with unmanageable IRS tax burdens. To assess your tax situation and determine if you qualify for tax relief, contact us for a free consultation. For taxpayers who have been working with the IRS, it is important for them to know that they have a right to finality. […]
How to Report Foreign Income to the IRS
You may live or work abroad, but if you’re an American citizen or legal permanent resident, Uncle Sam still wants his rightful share of your income. Even if you reside outside the United States and receive earnings from a source located outside the country, you must report that income. Depending on your circumstances, you may […]
Optima Newsletter – October 2020
If you’re out of work due to the coronavirus and in need of money fast, you might want to consider withdrawing from your retirement savings. Taxpayers who have had a negative impact on their finances due to the pandemic should know that temporary changes to the rules under the CARES Act allows taxpayers to make […]