Optima Tax Relief’s Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, Philip Hwang, recently appeared on the Tax Notes podcast to discuss what taxpayers can expect during the 2026 tax filing season. As the newest national chair of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP), Phil shared […]
2026 Tax Season Trends Part 2: What to Expect for Owed Taxes and Offer in Compromise – Optima Tax Relief
Wondering what the 2026 tax season will look like? CEO David King and Chief Tax Officer & Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang share their insights, diving into trends around taxpayers who owe, total balances owed, and the future of Offer in Compromise […]
What Is IRS Automated Collection System (ACS)?
When taxpayers fall behind on federal taxes, the IRS doesn’t immediately assign an agent to seize assets or make in-person visits. Instead, most delinquent accounts are first routed through a centralized enforcement program known as the IRS Automated Collection System, commonly referred to as ACS. This system […]
Tax Tips for Etsy Sellers
Selling on Etsy can be a rewarding venture, whether you’re crafting handmade jewelry, vintage finds, or unique digital downloads. However, as an Etsy seller, it’s essential to understand the tax implications of your business to ensure compliance and maximize your earnings. Here […]
What is the IRS?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is the federal agency responsible for administering and enforcing tax laws in the United States. Operating under the Department of the Treasury, the IRS plays a vital role in collecting taxes, processing tax returns, issuing refunds, and […]
Are Incarcerated Individuals Required to File Taxes?
Many people believe that incarceration automatically removes a person’s obligation to file taxes. This assumption is understandable, but it is incorrect. The IRS does not exempt individuals from federal tax responsibilities simply because they are incarcerated. Instead, tax filing requirements depend on […]
Schedule C Mistakes That Trigger IRS Audits
Filing Schedule C is unavoidable for sole proprietors, freelancers, and gig workers—but it also places your tax return under closer IRS scrutiny. Because Schedule C relies heavily on self-reported income and deductions, even small mistakes can raise red flags. In fact, many IRS audits […]
What Happens If You Ignore IRS Tax Debt? Timelines, Penalties, and Next Steps
Ignoring IRS tax debt is rarely an intentional decision, but it is a common one. Many taxpayers delay action out of fear, confusion, or the belief that the IRS will not act quickly. Unfortunately, when you ignore IRS tax debt, the consequences […]
Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney at Optima Tax Relief, Phil Hwang, Appointed National Chair of IRS Taxpayer Advocacy Panel
Optima Tax Relief announced today that Philip Hwang, its Chief Tax Officer and Lead Tax Attorney, has been appointed National Chair of the Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP) for 2026. TAP is a Federal Advisory Committee to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), composed […]
Forgot to File Taxes for 3+ Years? Here’s What to Do
Forgot to File Taxes for 3+ Years? Here’s What to Do Forgetting to file taxes for several years is far more common than most people are willing to admit. Changes in employment, self-employment income, financial hardship, divorce, illness, or simply not understanding filing […]