Whether you’re just starting college or returning after years in the workforce, filing taxes can be a new challenge. But one big “first” often catches students by surprise: filing taxes. Do college students need to file taxes? The answer depends on several […]
Do Back Taxes Affect Credit Scores?
When managing personal finances, understanding the impact of back taxes on your credit score is crucial. Many people may wonder whether owing money to the IRS or a state tax agency could damage their credit. After all, credit scores play a pivotal […]
Big Beautiful Bill: Overtime, Tips, and Social Security Tax Changes | Optima Tax Relief
Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill is now signed into law, bringing major changes to taxes on overtime, tips, Social Security, and more. CEO David King and Chief Tax Officer and Lead Attorney Philip Hwang explain what’s changing, when it kicks in, and what […]
What is Schedule R, Tax Credit for Elderly or Disabled?
Tax season can be a daunting time for many, with the intricacies of various forms and schedules often causing confusion. Among these, Schedule R is a form that remains relatively unknown to many taxpayers. However, for those who qualify, Schedule R can […]
Ask Phil: Big Beautiful Bill Summary
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, breaks down three of the most talked-about tax changes in the Big Beautiful Bill and what they could mean for your wallet. There’s been a lot of buzz around the […]
Tax Guide for Independent Contractors
Working as an independent contractor offers flexibility and autonomy, but it also means taking full responsibility for your taxes. Unlike employees, contractors don’t have income or payroll taxes withheld. This guide aims to explain why that matters and how to stay compliant. […]
Does the IRS Really Show Up at Your Door? What Field Visits Are (and Aren’t)
If you’re a taxpayer, few things sound more terrifying than hearing a knock at your door, only to find someone claiming to be from the IRS. But does the IRS really show up at your door? In recent years, the Internal Revenue […]
Taxes on Social Security Benefits
Social Security benefits are a crucial financial lifeline for many retirees. Many taxpayers are often shocked to learn that their Social Security benefits can be taxed by the federal government. Taxes on Social Security benefits are dependent on a variety of factors, […]
Ask Phil: Is There A Lien On Your House?
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, shares what a federal tax lien is and what steps you can take if the IRS has already filed one against your home. Option One: Pay Your Balance in Full […]
What You Need to Know About State Tax Audits
We often discuss IRS tax audits, but you can just as easily be audited by your state. Like an IRS audit, state tax audits can be stressful and intimidating for taxpayers. But what triggers a state tax audit? Is it less severe […]