Tax Articles & Guides
In-depth articles on tax topics for self-employed professionals, notaries, loan signing agents, and individuals.
The following articles provide detailed guidance on tax topics relevant to our clients. Content is current through the 2024 tax year and updated regularly.
Self-Employed & Schedule C
Loan Signing Agents
Notaries
Deductions & Expenses
The Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction
How the Section 199A deduction works for sole proprietors and single-member LLCs.
Home Office Deduction for Self-Employed Taxpayers
Requirements and calculation methods for the home office deduction.
Mileage Deduction for Mobile Notaries and Signing Agents
Proper documentation and calculation methods for business vehicle deductions.
Depreciation for Business Vehicles
Section 179, bonus depreciation, and MACRS for vehicles used in your business.
Tax Planning
Quarterly Estimated Taxes: A Simple Guide
When and how to pay estimated taxes to avoid penalties.
Business Tax Deadline: What S-Corps and Partnerships Need to Know
The March 15 business tax deadline for S-corporations and partnerships. Learn what's required, how to file for an extension, and what information you need to gather.
How to File a Tax Extension: Form 4868 Guide
A complete guide to filing IRS Form 4868 for an automatic tax extension. Learn how to get more time to file your tax return, what payments are still required, and avoid penalties.
EITC and Child Tax Credit Refund Timing: What to Expect
Learn when you'll receive your EITC and Child Tax Credit refund. Understand PATH Act delays, official refund release dates, how to check your status, and what causes processing delays.
Recovery Rebate Credit: Claiming Missing Stimulus Payments
Complete guide to the Recovery Rebate Credit. Learn how to claim missing stimulus payments on your tax return, figure out how much you're owed, and where to enter the credit on Form 1040.
Tax Refund Status: How to Check Where Your Refund Is
Learn how to check your tax refund status using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool. Find out what information you need, typical refund timelines, what status codes mean, and what to do if your refund is delayed.
E-File vs. Paper Filing: Processing Times and What to Expect
Compare how long does paper filing take versus e-file processing times. Learn about IRS paper filing timelines, electronic filing vs mail, and what to expect for your tax refund.
Tax Refund Calculator: How to Estimate Your Refund Amount
Learn how to calculate and estimate your tax refund. Understand withholding, tax brackets, standard vs itemized deductions, and use tax refund calculators effectively.
Where's My Amended Return? How to Track Form 1040-X Status
Learn how to check your amended tax return status. Understand Form 1040-X processing times, how to track online or by phone, and what to expect during the review process.
IRS Balance Due: How to Check What You Owe and Pay It
A complete guide to checking your IRS balance online and understanding your payment options, including IRS Direct Pay, payment plans, EFTPS, and what to do if you can't pay your tax debt.
Tax Day Deadline Guide: Everything You Need to Know
A comprehensive guide to tax day deadlines, including the standard April 15 deadline, what happens when it falls on a weekend, extensions, and state deadlines.
E-File vs. Paper Filing: Pros and Cons
Comparing electronic filing versus paper tax returns. Understand the benefits of e-filing, faster refunds, direct deposit, and when paper filing might still be necessary.
Compliance & Recordkeeping
Recordkeeping: Audit-Proofing Your Schedule C
Essential documentation practices to support your tax return.
Common IRS Audit Triggers for Schedule C Filers
Understanding what draws IRS attention and how to prepare.
Tax Documents Checklist: What You Need to File Your Return
Complete checklist of tax documents needed to file your return including W-2s, 1099s, deduction receipts, and records for common tax situations.
Tax Identity Theft: How to Protect Your Refund and What to Do If You're a Victim
Learn how to protect yourself from tax identity theft and refund fraud. Understand warning signs, IP PINs, what to do if someone files a return in your name, and how to resolve identity theft with the IRS.
Retirement
Required Minimum Distributions: Rules and Calculations
Understanding RMD requirements for traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and other retirement accounts.
Understanding Your 1099-SSA and Social Security Benefits
How to read and reconcile your Form 1099-SSA Social Security benefit statement with your tax return.
Retirement Account Withdrawals: Strategies and Timing
Strategic planning for IRA, 401(k), 403(b), and other retirement plan distributions including Roth conversions and early withdrawals.
Medicare and Medical Expense Deductions
Understanding Medicare taxation, maximizing medical expense deductions, HSA strategies, and long-term care cost planning.
Individual Tax Topics
Social Security Benefits Taxation
How Social Security benefits are taxed and strategies to minimize tax impact.
Form W-4 Guide: How to Adjust Your Tax Withholding
Complete guide to Form W-4 Employee's Withholding Certificate. Learn how to fill out the 2024/2025 Form W-4, adjust your withholding, and avoid owing taxes or getting a large refund.
Cryptocurrency
Understanding Form 1099-DA for Digital Assets
What the new crypto tax form means for investors and how to reconcile it with your transaction records.
The 1099-DA '$0 Basis' Trap: How to Prove Your Crypto Cost Basis
Starting in 2025 and 2026, the IRS Form 1099-DA will report your crypto sales. Learn how to fix the "$0 cost basis" error that could cause you to overpay thousands in taxes.
Get Tax Tips Delivered
Join 2,000+ Orlando professionals getting monthly tax tips, deadline reminders, and strategy insights.
No spam, unsubscribe anytime. We respect your privacy.
Need Professional Tax Guidance?
These articles provide general information, but tax situations vary. Professional guidance ensures your return is accurate and optimized for your specific circumstances.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Tax laws are subject to change and individual circumstances vary. Consult a qualified tax professional before acting on any information contained herein.