Tax-related identity theft is a significant concern for taxpayers, particularly during filing season when criminals look for opportunities to steal personal information and claim fraudulent refunds. Using stolen Social Security numbers and other identifying details, scammers can file tax returns in someone […]
Why Do Taxpayers Finally Act on Tax Problems? What Makes Them Seek Help
Knowing you have a tax problem and deciding to do something about it are not always the same thing. A taxpayer may know a return was never filed. They may know an IRS balance remains unpaid. They may even suspect that penalties […]
Do Taxpayers Who Owe Trust the IRS? Why Many Are Unsure About Enforcement
If you owe the IRS money, how likely do you think it is that the agency will find you, enforce the balance, or take action? In Optima Tax Relief’s 2025 Annual Report, which surveyed every client who enrolled in resolution services during […]
IRS Enforcement Is Changing: Why Tax Notices Still Matter in 2026
The IRS looks different than it did just a few years ago. Its workforce has contracted, enforcement resources have changed, and some traditional enforcement functions have become less visible. For taxpayers, that may create the impression that the IRS is watching less […]
Why Taxpayers Wait to Resolve Tax Problems: Insights From Optima Tax Relief’s 2025 Annual Report
Tax problems rarely appear overnight. For many taxpayers, an unresolved tax issue can grow gradually—from a missed filing or unpaid balance into years of penalties, interest, notices, and uncertainty. But why do people wait to address these problems, even when they know […]
IRS Interest Rates Remain the Same for Q4 2026: What Taxpayers Need to Know
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced on August 21, 2026, that interest rates will remain unchanged for the fourth quarter of 2026, beginning October 1. These rates, which remain in effect through December 31, 2026, apply to taxpayers with outstanding tax balances […]
2026 IRS Mileage Rates
The 2026 IRS mileage rates have been revised during the year, making them especially important for taxpayers who track vehicle expenses. The rates play an important role in how taxpayers calculate vehicle-related deductions. If you drive for business, medical care, charitable work, […]
2026 Q3 Estimated Tax Payments are Due. Are You Prepared?
The third estimated tax payment of 2026 is due September 15, 2026. For taxpayers who earn income without enough federal tax withheld throughout the year, this deadline is an important opportunity to reduce the risk of an unexpected tax bill and an […]
Court Ruling Expands IRS Ability to Pursue Taxpayers in Preparer Fraud Cases
For most taxpayers, the statute of limitations provides a sense of closure after filing a return. Once a certain number of years pass, many assume the IRS can no longer revisit those filings. However, a recent federal appeals court decision — and the […]
IRS Interest Rates Rise for Q3 2026: What Taxpayers Need to Know
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that interest rates will increase for the third quarter of 2026, beginning July 1. These rates, which remain in effect through September 30, 2026, impact taxpayers with outstanding tax balances as well as those eligible […]