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 […]
Optima Newsletter-September
What Tax Bracket Am I In? Complete 2026 Guide Understanding your 2026 tax bracket can help you estimate your federal income tax, evaluate the effect of a raise or bonus, and make informed decisions about deductions and other tax-planning strategies. This guide […]
Filing Taxes in Two States After Moving
Moving to another state during the year can make tax filing more complicated because you may have tax obligations in both your former state and your new state. In many cases, taxpayers who change states during the year file a part-year resident […]
Do I Have To Pay Taxes On FEMA Money?
Natural disasters can create significant financial challenges, especially when a home, vehicle, personal belongings, or other property is damaged or destroyed. If you receive financial assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), you may wonder how that money affects your federal […]
IRS Automated Collection System: What You Need to Know
Receiving an IRS collection notice can be stressful, especially when the notice includes unfamiliar terms or references the IRS Automated Collection System. Many taxpayers are unsure what ACS is, why their account is being handled by it, or whether the IRS is […]
What is Form 1099-K?
If you sell products online, run a side hustle, accept credit card payments, or receive payments through certain third-party platforms, you may receive a Form 1099-K at tax time. The form can be confusing because the amount listed on it is not […]
GoFundMe: How are Donations Taxed?
Crowdfunding is the act of funding a project by collecting small donations from a large number of individuals, often online. GoFundMe has become a powerful platform for individuals and organizations to raise funds for various causes. These range from medical expenses and […]
What You Need to Know About State Tax Audits
We often discuss IRS tax audits, but state tax authorities can also examine your tax returns and business records. Like an IRS audit, a state tax audit can be stressful and intimidating. However, understanding why audits happen and what to expect can […]
Do I Need a Tax Attorney?
Tax problems can range from a simple question about a tax return to a complicated dispute involving the IRS, substantial tax debt, or potential legal consequences. If you are wondering, do I need a tax attorney? The answer depends largely on the […]
What Tax Bracket Am I In? Complete 2026 Guide
If you’re wondering what tax bracket you may be in, the answer depends on two key factors: your taxable income and your federal tax filing status. For 2026, federal income tax rates range from 10% to 37%, but being in a particular […]