Ever get a letter on official-looking government letterhead that says something like, “You have unclaimed property”?These days, there are so many scams going around, it's tempting to throw those letters straight in the garbage (shred first, if possible!).And yet, it's...

Urgency is a tyrant. Especially when things go awry related to your money. You’re motivated to defend it with an iron grip … even at the expense of your overall state of mind.That’s how the banking “crisis” has a lot of people feeling right now. If you’re...

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!For tax and financial pros like us, this season also shouts: deadlines, deadlines, deadlines.So forgive us if we interrupt what (for many) is a sweet, tinsel-tinged season with our cue as your friendly neighborhood tax...

After a U.S. Congress election – regardless of your political perspective – within the results there is always a little bit of the productive, the unproductive, and the stalemate. Sometimes things work in your favor as a faithful Los Angeles taxpayer. Sometimes,...

Phew. I can tell you (for my part) that I’m eager to metaphorically turn the calendar page into 2023. The last THREE tax seasons have been fairly brutal for tax professionals, navigating IRS staffing challenges, all of the government relief initiatives, and of course...

 Key TakeawaysYes, you can dispute a tax bill—a notice from the IRS is often a proposal, not a final verdict. The IRS routinely issues bills based on incomplete or incorrect information, especially when returns are missing or rushed. You have the legal...

The financial world has shifted massively over the past 10 years. We all know it.One of the main shifts has been the incredible (and ongoing) rise in self-employment among Americans.There are so many great tax reasons to have your own business, even if it's a "side...

There’s been an extraordinary surge of fakers this year. The explosion of AI along with more sophisticated scams can make it feel like you have to look under every rock. While Biden is enacting a presidential order to demand some accountability from the big...

 Key TakeawaysAvoid preparers who promise large refunds or charge fees based on a percentage of your refund Verify credentials and representation rights. Only CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys can represent you in all IRS matters Confirm they...

With Labor Day behind us, fall is just around the corner.(And a quick tax note: so are estimated taxes, if that applies to you. Due the 16th of this month. Consider yourself reminded. Though I will probably remind you once more.)Now ... fall. This can be a happy...