Inheriting assets can be a bittersweet experience. While it often signifies the passing of a loved one, it can also provide financial stability and opportunities for the future. However, along with the emotional and financial aspects of inheritance come tax implications, especially regarding inherited accounts. Understanding taxes on inherited accounts is essential for managing inherited IRAs, 401(k)s, taxable investment accounts, […]
Ask Phil: Is All My Debt Included When I File For Bankruptcy?
Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, answers another tax question from Reddit. This time, the topic is bankruptcy and how tax debt is treated during the process. The taxpayer in this scenario has a $25,000 tax debt with the IRS and is currently on an installment agreement. However, when reviewing […]
IRS Phishing Emails: Real Examples and Warning Signs
IRS phishing emails remain one of the most widespread threats to taxpayers, and they continue to grow more sophisticated each year. As more tax services move online, scammers have found new ways to impersonate the Internal Revenue Service and trick people into sharing personal data or sending money. These messages often look official, use realistic language, and […]
Wage Garnishment on Student Loans: How it Works and How to Stop It
Student loan wage garnishment is one of the most serious consequences a borrower can face when federal student loans fall into default. Unlike most other consumer debts, the federal government has powerful collection tools that can reach directly into your paycheck without first suing you in court. For borrowers already struggling financially, this can feel overwhelming and […]
2026 IRS Mileage Rates
The 2026 IRS mileage rates have been announced, and they play an important role in how taxpayers calculate vehicle-related deductions. If you drive for business, medical care, charitable work, or qualified moving purposes, these rates can directly affect how much you save at tax time. Every year, the IRS updates mileage rates to reflect changing vehicle costs […]
Seven Years Strong: Optima Tax Relief Continues Customer Service Winning Streak at Stevie® Awards
Customer-first approach earns continued recognition for service excellence Optima Tax Relief, the nation’s leading tax resolution firm, has been honored with one Gold and two Silver Stevie® Awards in the 20th Annual Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, marking the company’s seventh consecutive year of recognition by the Stevie Awards and highlighting its sustained excellence in […]
Is Tax Relief Legit? How to Spot Real Help vs Scams
If you owe the IRS money, you’ve likely encountered bold ads promising to “settle your tax debt for pennies on the dollar” or “OIC guaranteed!” For someone under financial stress, those claims can feel hopeful but also suspicious. That’s why so many taxpayers ask the same question: is IRS tax relief legit? The honest answer is nuanced. Yes, IRS tax relief is legitimate, […]
Tax Deductions for Therapists
Therapists spend years mastering clinical skills, yet most receive little training in tax strategy. That gap can cost thousands of dollars annually and create unnecessary financial stress. Understanding tax deductions for therapists is not about aggressive tactics or loopholes. It is about applying the tax code correctly, so you are taxed on profit rather than total revenue. When therapists […]
Optima Newsletter-February
IRS Phishing Emails: Real Examples and Warning Signs IRS phishing emails remain one of the most widespread threats to taxpayers, and they continue to grow more sophisticated each year. As more tax services move online, scammers have found new ways to impersonate the Internal Revenue Service and trick people into sharing personal data or sending […]
How to Track and Deduct Business Use of a Personal Vehicle
When you use your personal vehicle for work-related purposes, you may be eligible to deduct certain expenses from your taxes. But understanding how to properly track and deduct business use of a personal vehicle can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about choosing the […]