Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses how owing back taxes can affect your travel plans, including renewing your passport or obtaining one for the first time. Here’s what you need to know about passports and taxes. You might be […]
Tax Benefits of Donor-Advised Funds
Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) have emerged as a powerful tool that not only allows philanthropists to make a positive impact but also offers substantial tax benefits. By understanding the advantages of DAFs, you can optimize your giving strategy for the causes you care […]
Ask Phil: No More Surprise RO Visits
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses an important update regarding surprise RO visits. The IRS just announced that it is discontinuing home visits as an enforcement method. This means the days of intimidating revenue officers (ROs) knocking on […]
Optima Newsletter – August 2023
Tax Tips for Seniors and Retirees As the golden years approach, seniors and retirees face a new set of financial challenges, with tax planning becoming increasingly important. Understanding the tax implications of retirement income sources, investments, and deductions can significantly impact a […]
How State Residency Affects Your Taxes
When it comes to taxes, the old adage “location, location, location” takes on a new meaning. State residency plays a significant role in determining the taxes you owe, as each state has its own tax laws, rates, and regulations. Things get even […]
IRS Ends Surprise Visits from Revenue Officers
The IRS recently announced it is ending its longstanding practice of surprise in-person visits to taxpayers. Optima CEO David King and Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang provide helpful insight on what communication you can expect to receive from a Revenue Officer moving […]
Ask Phil: How Do I Maximize Tax Deductions?
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses maximizing tax deductions. Everyone wants a big refund. So, how do we know we’re maximizing our deductions to accomplish this? It depends on whether you choose to take the standard deduction or […]
Ask Phil: What are Private Collection Agencies?
Today, Optima Tax Relief’s Lead Tax Attorney, Phil Hwang, discusses private collection agencies, otherwise known as PCAs. Unbeknownst to some taxpayers, the IRS doesn’t always collect taxes on their own. Sometimes they hire private collection agencies (PCAs). The IRS contracts these agencies […]
2023 State Income Tax Rates and Brackets
We often discuss federal taxes here, from tax filings to deductions and credits. However, it’s important to note that federal taxes are typically only one half of a taxpayer’s responsibility. In addition to filing and paying federal taxes each year, taxpayers must […]
$1.5 Billion in Tax Refunds are Unclaimed. Do You Qualify?
The IRS has $1.5 billion in unclaimed tax refunds for tax year 2019 and the deadline to file is approaching quickly. Optima CEO David King and Lead Tax Attorney Philip Hwang provide helpful tips on how to find out if you’re eligible […]