Federal Tax Lien: How to Solve the Problem
A federal tax lien is the government’s legal claim against a taxpayer’s property when taxes are owed and the IRS intends to collect these taxes. The federal tax lien attaches to your property, including financial assets, until the tax debt is paid. The purpose of a federal tax lien is to protect the government’s interest […]
Understanding the Basics of Installment Agreements
IRS installment agreements are offered to taxpayers looking for a way to pay their taxes to the government in monthly amounts. Installment agreements are among the most popular programs requested by clients at our CPA firm. It is important to use installment agreements to pay taxes over time to avoid penalties and ensure timely payments. […]
How to Appeal an IRS Decision: A Step-by-Step Guide
Disagree with an IRS decision? Here’s how to appeal an IRS decision and start the appeal process. The IRS sends a detailed examination report to notify individuals about the outcome of an audit. First, make sure you do not sign the IRS examination report. Your next step is to file a written protest to request […]
Can You Go to Jail for Not Paying Taxes? Here’s What to Know
Yes, you can go to jail for not paying taxes, particularly in cases of tax evasion or fraud. Can you go to jail for not filing tax returns? The possibility exists, particularly if the failure to file is intentional and aimed at evading tax obligations. These situations involve deliberately avoiding tax payment. In this article, […]
Best Strategies to Handle an IRS Bank Levy Effectively
An IRS bank levy is a serious action the IRS can take to collect unpaid taxes by freezing and seizing funds from your bank account. If you’re facing a bank levy, understanding the process and knowing your options is crucial to protecting your finances. This article will guide you through what an IRS bank levy […]
IRS Fresh Start Tax Program: How to Achieve Tax Debt Relief
Are you overwhelmed by tax debt? The IRS Fresh Start Tax Program offers relief options tailored to your needs. This article explains how you can reduce your tax liabilities and outlines the steps to apply. Discover if this program could help you achieve much-needed financial relief. Key Takeaways The IRS Fresh Start Tax Program offers […]
IRS Certified Mail: How to Handle Important Tax Notices Effectively
When you receive IRS certified mail, it means the IRS is informing you about important tax issues. This article covers why you might receive such mail and the necessary steps to take right away. Key Takeaways IRS certified mail ensures important tax notices are officially delivered, allowing taxpayers to respond appropriately. Timely and accurate responses […]
What to Do If I Haven’t Filed My Taxes in 3 Years
Haven’t filed my taxes in 3 years? It’s essential to take action quickly to avoid severe penalties and legal issues. This article will guide you through the immediate steps to get back on track, the consequences of not filing, and the options available to manage your tax debt. Additionally, filing your taxes is crucial to […]
What If an Estate Cannot Pay Taxes? Guide to Handling Tax Debts After Death
What if an estate cannot pay taxes? When an estate lacks funds to cover taxes, the executor must manage the debts and work with the IRS. If a deceased person owes taxes, it is crucial for the estate to settle any outstanding tax obligations to prevent financial burdens on loved ones. Beneficiaries might face delays […]
How to Easily File an Amended Return (Form 1040-X)
An amended return is necessary when you’ve made an error on your tax return, such as missing income or deductions. This guide will show you what an amended return is, when to file it, and the steps to complete Form 1040-X for correcting your original individual income tax return. Key Takeaways An amended tax return, […]
Effective Tax Lien Help: Top Strategies to Resolve IRS Tax Liens
Need tax lien help? You’re not alone. This article explains what an IRS tax lien is and outlines practical steps to resolve it. Whether it’s paying in full, setting up an installment plan, or negotiating a settlement, we’ll guide you through the process. Key Takeaways An IRS tax lien is a legal claim against your […]
Top Benefits of Professional Tax Audit Representation
A tax audit can be challenging. Tax audit representation involves professionals guiding you through the audit, protecting your rights, and reducing financial risks. This article covers the benefits of having expert support during an IRS audit. Key Takeaways Professional tax audit representation helps navigate the IRS audit process, ensuring compliance and protecting taxpayer rights. Common […]
Enrolled Agent vs. CPA: Choosing the Best Tax Professional for Your Needs
Tax season is here, and you’re probably wondering whether you should hire an Enrolled Agent (EA) or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Understanding the key differences between an Enrolled Agent vs CPA is crucial for making an informed decision. This article will break down the roles, qualifications, and areas of expertise of EAs and CPAs […]
Top Tips for Handling an IRS Notice of Deficiency
An IRS Notice of Deficiency informs you that you owe additional taxes due to discrepancies in your tax return. This document, also known as a ‘90-day letter,’ gives you 90 days to respond. In this article, we’ll explain what a Notice of Deficiency is, why you might receive one, and the steps you should take […]
IRS Notice CP2000: What is It?
What is IRS CP2000? IRS Notice CP2000 is one of the most common IRS letters that we see in our CPA practice. The IRS mails these notices to taxpayers when information from a third party source (such as a 1099 or W-2) does not match the information the taxpayer reported on their income tax return. […]
CPA for Independent Contractor: Top Services for Essential Tax Help
Navigating taxes and finances as an independent contractor can be daunting. A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) helps manage these tasks efficiently, ensuring you maximize deductions and stay compliant with tax laws. This guide will show how a CPA for independent contractors can save you time, money, and stress in your financial management. Key Takeaways Independent […]
Understanding Insolvency for Cancellation of Debt: A Simple Guide
Are you dealing with canceled debt and wondering how insolvency affects your tax situation? Understanding insolvency for cancellation of debt is crucial for managing potential tax liabilities. Under IRS tax regulations, cancelled debt can be excluded from taxable income under the insolvency exclusion when a taxpayer’s liabilities exceed their assets. This guide will explain what […]
Who Can Take Your Tax Refund and How to Protect It
Worried about who can take your federal tax refund? Federal and state agencies, as well as private creditors, may have the authority to seize it. This article will explain which entities can take your refund and how you can safeguard it. Key Takeaways Federal and state agencies can seize tax refunds to recover outstanding debts, […]
A Guide to IRS Tax Penalties
The IRS imposes civil penalties in many situations. Penalties are meant to act as a stick to motivate the public to comply voluntarily with the tax laws. Tax penalties may be either civil or criminal. Civil penalties are financial Criminal penalties may involve jail time This article will focus what you need to know […]
IRS Hardship Program: Currently Not Collectible
We regularly meet with clients of our accounting firm who owe taxes to the IRS that they cannot afford to pay due to a financial hardship. Sometimes it is a tax bill for one year. Frequently it is a tax bill for multiple years. The IRS offers a number of solutions that provide tax relief to taxpayers […]
Top Reasons to Hire a Tax Strategist for Your Tax Planning
A tax strategist assists individuals and businesses to minimize their taxes. The tax plans that they develop are made to ensure that the client stays within the law and to minimize the risk of IRS audit. This article explores the essential roles of a tax strategist and the advantages of regular tax planning. Tax strategist […]
Mastering the IRS Offer in Compromise: Reducing Tax Debt
Are you overwhelmed by tax debt and looking for a solution? An IRS offer in compromise (OIC) might be the lifeline you need. This program allows eligible taxpayers to settle their tax debts for less than the total amount owed. In this article, we’ll explain what an OIC is, how to determine if you qualify, […]
How to Negotiate with the IRS: Resolving a Tax Debt
Understanding Tax Debt Relief Tax debt relief refers to the various options available to individuals and businesses struggling to pay their tax obligations. The IRS offers several programs and services to help taxpayers manage their tax debt, including installment agreements, offers in compromise and tax penalty abatement. Understanding these options is important for taxpayers who […]
Top Tips for Managing a GA State Tax Lien
A GA state tax lien is a legal claim on your property due to unpaid state taxes. This article will explain what a GA state tax lien means for you, how it’s filed, its effects on your property, and ways to remove it. Key Takeaways Georgia state tax liens are serious legal claims on property […]
How to Conduct a Georgia CPA License Search
Need to verify a CPA license in Georgia? This guide covers everything you need to conduct a Georgia CPA license search. We’ll show you how to access the state board’s website, use the verification tool, and understand the results. Key Takeaways The Georgia State Board of Accountancy oversees the licensing and regulation of CPAs, ensuring […]
Guide to IRS Statute of Limitations (CSED)
Understanding the IRS Statute of Limitations The IRS statute of limitations is an important concept for taxpayers to understand, as it determines the period during which the IRS can collect taxes, penalties, and interest from a taxpayer. The standard statute of limitations for tax debts is 10 years, beginning from the date the tax return […]
Divorce, Taxes and Conflict of Interest: Working with a CPA
Understanding the Divorce Process and Taxes The divorce process can be complex and emotionally challenging, and taxes are an essential aspect to consider. Understanding the tax implications of divorce can help you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. The divorce process typically involves several stages, including separation, divorce filing, discovery, and settlement or trial. […]
Guide to Your Georgia State Tax Refund Status
Wondering how to check your Georgia state tax refund status? This guide walks you through the process using the Georgia Tax Center portal, explains typical processing times, and highlights common reasons for delays. Read on to understand everything you need for tracking your refund efficiently. Key Takeaways Taxpayers can easily check their Georgia state tax […]
Top IRS Audit Triggers and Data Analytics
Curious about what might trigger an IRS audit? This article delves into the key IRS audit triggers you should be mindful of. From discrepancies in your tax return and unreported foreign assets to the use of advanced data analytics tools by the IRS, we explore the top factors that could place you under IRS scrutiny. […]
Tax Debts and Bankruptcy
Does bankruptcy clear tax debt? It depends on the type of tax debt and specific conditions. This article will explain which tax debts can be discharged, the criteria to discharge tax debt, and the impact of different bankruptcy chapters on tax debt. Key Takeaways Bankruptcy can discharge certain types of tax debt, primarily income tax, […]
🎉WOOHOO!! We Made the Best of 2024 My Dunwoody List 🎉
Exciting News!!! Massey and Company CPA has been recognized as the best CPA firm in Dunwoody in 2024 by Atlanta Best Media! Thank you for the support of our clients and our amazing Team, who have made this possible. We are so thrilled with our growth over the past 10 years. Click HERE to meet […]
How to Qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief: A Simple Guide
Innocent spouse relief is an IRS tax provision that can protect you from your spouse’s incorrect tax filings. If you were unaware of errors on your joint tax return and are now facing unfair tax liabilities, this relief may be for you. In this guide, we will cover what innocent spouse relief is, who qualifies, […]
How to Access Your Tax Return Transcript
An IRS tax return transcript is a summary of key details from your tax return. Whether you need it for loan applications, financial aid, or resolving tax issues, knowing how to access it is important. In this article, we will explain what a tax return transcript includes, why you might need one, and the steps […]
How to Handle a CP14 Notice from the IRS
An IRS CP14 notice means you owe taxes to the IRS. This guide will explain why you got the notice and what you need to do next. Key Takeaways A CP14 notice from the IRS indicates outstanding tax debts and includes details such as the amount owed, reasons for the balance, and instructions for payment. […]
Top Tips for Filing Form 843 to Request IRS Penalty Relief
Form 843 allows you to request relief from IRS penalties, interest, and certain taxes. Whether you’re dealing with excessive withholding, penalties or errors, this guide will help you work your way through the filing process. Key Takeaways Form 843 allows taxpayers to request relief from specific taxes, penalties, and interest, but does not guarantee total […]
How Far Back Can the IRS Audit? Know Your Limits
How far back can the IRS audit your tax returns? Generally, it’s three years, but certain circumstances can extend this period to six or even indefinitely. In this article, we will explore these audit timeframes and what triggers them, helping you understand how to keep your records in order. Key Takeaways The standard IRS audit […]
IRS Appeals Process
The IRS Appeals Process for collections began in 1998 with the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act. As a result of this law, taxpayers were no longer at the mercy of the IRS. The new rules prohibited the IRS from levying bank accounts and garnishing wages at will. And a formal appeals process was instituted to […]
IRS Audit Guide (Updated for 2024)
IRS Audit: What to Know, What to Do in 2024 Taxpayers are selected for an IRS audit for a variety of reasons. Some taxpayers are chosen due to a document mismatch, such as a return that is missing 1099’s or W-2’s. The IRS computers usually spot missing documents based on the social security number (SSN) […]
Resolve Your Tax Debt To Save Your Passport
Can You Get a Passport if you Owe Taxes? If you have unpaid federal tax debt, you may be in for a surprise. The State Department will revoke your passport, or not issue you a new passport, if you owe a significant tax debt to the IRS. For this reason, taxpayers with tax debts and […]
LT38 Notice: Prepare for IRS Collection Actions
Received an LT38 notice? The IRS is resuming efforts to collect your overdue taxes. Immediate action is needed to avoid further penalties and interest. In our Atlanta-based CPA practice, we have noticed a significant increase in the number of clients receiving IRS notices during 2024, including the LT38 Notice in particular. Our firm’s experience is […]
Mastering IRS CP49: How to Handle Tax Refund Adjustments
IRS Notice CP49 may surprise you, informing you that your tax refund was used to pay off unpaid tax debts. This means the IRS applied your expected refund to settle outstanding liabilities. In this article, we’ll explain why you received Notice CP49 and how to handle its consequences. Key Takeaways IRS Notice CP49 informs taxpayers […]
CP523 Notice: Steps to Keep Your IRS Payment Plan Intact
Receiving an IRS CP523 notice means the IRS intends to terminate your installment agreement due to a default. This notice is a warning that you must take immediate action to keep your plan intact. In this article, we will explain what a CP523 notice is, why you might receive one, and the essential steps to […]
Divorce and Taxes: How to Protect Yourself
Divorce and taxes are the important subject of our live event with Pacific Cascade Legal, a premier family law firm in Oregon and Washington. We discuss how divorce impacts joint tax liability, when there might be relief granted for separation of joint liability, and other important tax considerations when navigating divorce from your spouse. […]
How to Avoid IRS Trouble
The thought of IRS trouble, “red flags” and audits are enough to worry any business owner. In this podcast, we talk about how to avoid IRS tax problems, and what to do if they arise. In the podcast, we cover a variety of topics including: Organizing your business for tax preparation Tax calendar […]
Statistics on Federal Tax Liens in Alpharetta, GA
This is the first in our series of reports analyzing federal tax liens on Georgia businesses. Along with tax levies and garnishments, federal tax liens are one of the most powerful weapons available to the IRS in its efforts to collect back taxes. As of 2022 there were more than 15 million taxpayers nationwide in […]
Trust Fund Recovery Penalty
The Trust Fund Recovery Penalty is a very severe set of rules that are meant to encourage voluntary compliance with our payroll tax laws. Payroll taxes includes the income tax and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (“FICA”) taxes that are withheld from every employee’s paycheck. It also includes the employer portion of FICA. The business pays […]
Georgia Offer in Compromise and Tax Payment Plan
Georgia State Tax Forgiveness: How it Works The Georgia Department of Revenue (GA DOR) allows taxpayers to settle a tax liability for less than the total amount owed. This is called an offer in compromise and is one of the more popular tax debt relief programs in Georgia. These programs are also known as […]
Past Due Tax Returns
Millions of people across the United States do not file tax returns under the mistaken belief that it is best not to file a tax return if they cannot pay the tax. However, past due or unfiled tax returns cause a host of problems. It is both illegal not to file and a strategic mistake. […]
Tax Debts: Post-Covid Update
In response to the economic fallout from COVID-19, the IRS suspended attempts to collect back taxes through liens, levies, seizures and other methods. We have learned that the IRS is now restarting the collection of back taxes. There are already more than 25 million taxpayers in America that are in trouble with the IRS, and […]
IRS Tax Relief in 2021
IRS Payment Plans, Tax Liens, Tax Transcripts and More: Navigating the Tax Relief Maze. IRS tax relief includes more than just resolving back taxes. It includes filing missing returns, reconstructing accounting records, interpreting the statute of limitations, analyzing arcane IRS transcripts and the pain and embarrassment of dealing with the IRS. Which way should you […]
Challenging a Tax Bill
6 Ways that Work When Challenging a Tax Bill An incorrect tax bill is fairly common because of the IRS reliance on automated systems. According to a recent report, 75% of all IRS audits are done by computers. In addition, the IRS uses computers to create substitutes for returns when returns are not filed. As a […]
Tax Returns Not Filed?
A significant percentage of that number constitutes taxpayers who have not filed tax returns for multiple years. The IRS is beginning an initiative to target these “non-filers.” If you come into our Buckhead – Sandy Springs CPA firm to resolve the problem of missing tax returns for you or your business, we will be sure […]
Does Bankruptcy Clear Tax Debt?
The Basics of Bankruptcy and the IRS. Bankruptcy is one of the tools we discuss in our Atlanta CPA firm with clients who are burdened by back taxes that they cannot afford to pay. Bankruptcy does offer tax relief, but with some critical rules and significant exceptions. It is important that taxpayers understand how these […]
Penalties for Tax Evasion
A Real-Life Example of Tax Evasion. As a result of an IRS criminal investigation, a Shreveport, Louisiana business owner was sentenced on September 29, 2020. Penalties for tax evasion included 3 years and 4 months in prison and nearly $2 million in restitution payments to the IRS. According to documents and information provided to the […]
Tax Evasion: Recent Case
Tax evasion is squarely in the sites of IRS auditors and the IRS criminal investigation division, especially as it relates to cash-based businesses. Tax evasion is also known as tax fraud. On September 10, 2020 the United States Attorney’s Office announced the sentencing of Mr. and Mrs. Brocato in a court trial that is a […]