Ask Phil Video Series

Today, Phil discusses what options you have if you cannot afford to do your taxes.  If you can’t afford to do your taxes, you can check to see if you’re eligible for free tax preparation. You can check out these two sites […]

Today, Phil gives his top tips on how to avoid IRS levies and liens.   Tip #1: Don’t Owe the IRS  Avoiding owing the IRS begins with responsible financial management and proactive tax planning. First, maintain accurate records of all income and expenses […]

Today, Phil explains what a tax attorney is, including what it takes to become one and how they can help you with your tax issues.  What is a Tax Attorney?  A tax attorney is a legal professional who specializes in tax law. […]

Today, Phil discusses the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, also known as FinCEN.  If you’ve never heard of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, you aren’t alone. FinCEN is a bureau of the United States Department of the Treasury. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s […]

Today, Phil discusses his top 5 tax tips for 2024.   Tax Tip #5: Gather Your Tax Documents Early  Most tax forms, including your W-2s and most 1099s, should be sent to you by January 31. However, there are some tax documents that […]

Today, Phil discusses the 2024 tax season, including penalty relief and who qualifies for it.   The IRS is providing $1 billion in penalty relief to nearly 5 million 2020 and 2021 tax returns. To qualify, you must owe less than $100,000 on […]

Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses gift taxes, including how they work and who is responsible for paying them.  The government imposes gift taxes on the transfer of property, money, or assets from one person to another without […]

Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses IRS online accounts, including why it’s beneficial for taxpayers to have them.  Having an IRS online account can offer several benefits to individuals and businesses. Here are some of the advantages of […]

Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses state taxes and collections, including how they differ from federal taxes and collections. 

State tax collections and federal tax collections are two distinct systems of revenue collection within the United States. Here are some key differences between them.

Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses bankruptcy, including if and when tax debt is discharged.   When you file for bankruptcy, you are relieved from most of your debts, including credit card debt, medical bills, payday loans, utility bills, […]