The SALT deduction 2026 rules have changed significantly, giving many taxpayers the opportunity to deduct more state and local taxes on their federal income tax returns. For years, the deduction was limited by a $10,000 cap, preventing many homeowners and residents of […]
Tax Relief Now: How to Get Tax Help ASAP
IRS CP504 vs. LT11: What’s the Difference?
Receiving a notice from the IRS can be stressful, especially when the letter mentions possible levy action or warns that the government may begin collecting unpaid taxes. Two notices that frequently cause confusion are the CP504 and LT11. While both relate to unpaid tax debt and potential […]
Bonus Depreciation for Real Estate Explained
Real estate investing offers several tax advantages, and one of the most valuable is bonus depreciation for real estate. By accelerating depreciation deductions on qualifying assets, investors may be able to significantly reduce their taxable income in the year they purchase or improve a […]
How Tax Relief Works
Owing the IRS can be one of the most stressful situations a taxpayer can face. Recent data shows that American taxpayers owed over $316 billion in back taxes, penalties, and interest as of the end of 2022. Much of this debt can […]
State Tax Refund Seized. Now What?
Receiving a tax refund can provide welcome financial relief, whether you plan to pay bills, build your savings, or cover everyday expenses. That’s why it can be alarming to discover that your state tax refund was seized or that the refund you were expecting […]
When to Call an IRS Criminal Tax Investigation Lawyer
Most interactions with the IRS involve civil matters, such as audits, collection notices, or unpaid tax balances. While these situations can be stressful, they are generally intended to determine the correct amount of tax owed or collect outstanding taxes. In some cases, however, the IRS may […]
What To Do If You Receive IRS Notice CP14
Receiving an IRS Notice CP14 can be stressful, but understanding what it means and how to respond is the first step toward resolving the issue. This notice is the first formal communication from the IRS indicating that you owe unpaid taxes. Ignoring it could lead to additional penalties […]
What are Education Credits and Deductions Every Student Should Claim?
Higher education can be expensive, but the tax code offers several valuable benefits that can help offset those costs. Unfortunately, many taxpayers either overlook these opportunities or are unsure whether they qualify. Understanding what education tax credits are and how they work can help […]
Ask Phil: Itemized Deductions vs. Standard Deduction — Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, breaks down one of the most common tax questions taxpayers face: Should you itemize your deductions or take the standard deduction? The answer depends on your individual financial situation and whether your […]