An S corporation, or S Corp, offers small business owners a flexible way to reduce tax liability while maintaining corporate protections. But with those advantages comes heightened attention from the IRS. While S Corps aren’t inherently more likely to be audited than other entities, they do present specific S Corp audit triggers, issues that commonly […]
What is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
The IRS Fresh Start Program is a series of initiatives and policy changes launched in 2011 and expanded since, designed to assist individuals and businesses in resolving their federal tax liabilities. This collection of provisions makes it easier for taxpayers to manage and settle their tax debt, offering various options to pay off what they […]
Partial Payment Installment Agreements Explained
Dealing with tax debt can be overwhelming, particularly when financial circumstances make full repayment impossible. The IRS offers multiple programs to help taxpayers manage obligations while avoiding aggressive collection actions. One of the most flexible and practical options is the Partial Payment Installment Agreement (PPIA), which allows taxpayers to pay the amount owed over time, […]
How to File Taxes If Your Spouse or Dependent is Incarcerated
Filing taxes can be a complex process, and it becomes even more challenging when your spouse or dependent is incarcerated. In such situations, various considerations and adjustments must be made to ensure accurate and lawful tax filings. This article will guide you through the process, providing valuable information and tips on how to file taxes […]
What is Schedule K-1?
Schedule K-1 is a crucial tax form for anyone involved in partnerships, S corporations, or certain trusts and estates. Traditional tax forms, like the W-2 or 1099, report income directly to individual taxpayers. However, Schedule K-1 reports a taxpayer’s share of income, deductions, and credits from pass-through entities. Understanding how this form works and the […]
Tax Deductions for Gen Z, Millennials, and Boomers
Understanding which tax deductions you qualify for can significantly reduce your taxable income, increase refunds, and improve your overall financial strategy. However, the types of deductions that make sense often depend on your generation and life stage. From student loans and side hustles for Gen Z to homeownership and retirement contributions for Millennials, and age-specific […]
Zelle and Taxes: Does Zelle Report to the IRS?
Zelle has become one of the most popular ways to send and receive money instantly, with millions of users transferring funds directly between bank accounts each day. But as tax season approaches, one common question arises: Does Zelle report your transactions to the IRS? While other peer-to-peer payment apps like PayPal and Venmo are subject […]
Choosing the Right IRS Payment Plan: Full Payment, CNC, or Installments | Optima Tax Relief
Wondering whether it’s better to pay your taxes in full or set up a payment plan? CEO David King and Chief Tax Officer & Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang explain which repayment options you may qualify for, how penalties and interest impact your total debt, and the steps you can take to resolve your tax […]
Estimated Tax Payments: What Happens If You Miss a Quarter
If you earn income that isn’t automatically taxed through payroll withholding, like freelance work, consulting, investments, or small business profits, you’re expected to make estimated tax payments four times a year. These quarterly payments help you stay current with the IRS so you don’t end up with a surprise bill and penalties at tax time. […]
The IRS Filed a Substitute for Return. Now What?
One of the most significant obligations U.S. taxpayers have is to file an annual federal tax return. However, life gets busy, and sometimes individuals either forget or deliberately neglect to file. When this happens, the IRS doesn’t simply forget about it. Instead, they may take matters into their own hands by filing a “Substitute for […]