When it comes to dealing with the IRS, “creative strategies” can quickly turn into federal crimes.  A Virginia landlord and IT specialist recently learned that lesson the hard way. After filing false tax returns and receiving refunds he wasn’t entitled to, he attempted to block the IRS from recovering the money. His efforts included transferring property into a trust,...

Running a successful business doesn’t excuse ignoring payroll tax obligations.  An Oregon business owner recently learned that lesson the hard way. For several years, she withheld Social Security, Medicare, and federal income taxes from her employees’ paychecks—but failed to send those funds to the IRS. Instead, the money was used for other expenses, including major real estate purchases.  The...

If you’ve searched online for tax help, you’ve likely seen ads promising an “IRS Fresh Start” that will eliminate your tax debt or let you settle for pennies on the dollar. These claims sound appealing—especially if you’re overwhelmed by IRS notices—but they often leave out critical details.  The truth is, there is no single, universal “Fresh Start Program” that automatically wipes away tax debt. Understanding what the term really means—and who actually qualifies for relief—is...

  The One Big Beautiful Bill Act Brings Major Changes to Section 1202 Capital Gains Exclusion   Introduction On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law, ushering in sweeping changes to the U.S. tax code. Among its most significant reforms are the enhancements to Section 1202 of the...