“My Accountant Always Handled It” — A Visiting Nurse’s $22,400 Tax Surprise
A visiting nurse earned $100,000 on a 1099. She had no idea she owed $22,400 — until filing day. Here’s why self-employment tax hits so hard.
Tax Stories
Tax Basics
What Are J-1/F-1 Visa Tax Rules?
F-1 and J-1 visa holders face unique U.S. tax rules. Learn about Form 8843, FICA exemption, and Korea tax treaty benefits.
Tax Basics
What Is Data Security for Tax Filing?
The IRS will never email or text you. Learn how IP PIN, Form 14039, and simple habits guard your SSN and refund.
Tax Stories
Four W-2s, One Surprise Tax Bill
He worked four jobs and still owed the IRS. Here’s why multiple W-2s and a 1099 trigger a surprise tax bill.
Tax Basics
What Is Schedule C?
Schedule C is the IRS form sole proprietors use to report business profit or loss. Learn who files it and how it works
Tax Stories
47 Checks, 18 Mysteries: Why “I’ll Remember Later” Fails the IRS
January arrives with a year of checks and blank memo lines. 18 out of 47 untraceable. Why IRC §274(d) makes “I’ll remember later” a dangerous strategy.
Tax Basics
Why Your Bookkeeper Should Be an Enrolled Agent
Your books end up on your tax return. An Enrolled Agent keeps them the way the IRS reads them — built right from the first entry.
Tax Stories
How David Earned Social Security Credits Before Retirement
At 60, David had a green card and 22 Social Security credits. Here’s the math—and the deadline—that got him to 40.
Tax Basics
What Is IRS Circular 230?
Circular 230 is the Treasury rulebook for EAs, CPAs, and attorneys practicing before the IRS. Here’s what it covers.
Tax Stories
What Filing Status Should You Use the Year Your Spouse Dies?
The year your spouse dies, you can still file jointly. Skipping that fact cost one widow $23,000 in deductions.