History of Taxes

The True Cost of Independence — An S.H. Block Retrospective

America’s tax history might be the most complicated of any modern nation. To celebrate our Independence Day, we decided to delve into that history and explore some of the historic moments that helped shape our modern income tax system. Read on to learn more. Read more

Substitute Return

Did You Know the IRS Can File a Substitute Return on Your Behalf?

If you fail to file your tax returns for one or more years, you might get an unpleasant surprise and find that the IRS has filed a substitute tax return on your behalf. When the IRS or State of Maryland decides to do this, they simply base the substitute return on whatever information they have at their disposal.

Unfortunately, when a taxation entity, the IRS, or State of Maryland files your return for you, they won’t bother to look for the best deductions and write-offs. And in some cases, their computer programs might even overstate your tax liability. Read more

tax fraud

What Is the Difference Between Tax Fraud and Negligence?

Every year, millions of Americans feel a twinge of worry and doubt when they finalize their tax returns with their signature and e-file or mail them to the IRS and their state government.

Their anxiety is justified, as seemingly minor mistakes can land taxpayers in serious hot water, even after filing an amended return. These errors, omissions, and typos could potentially lead to an audit, severe fines, or even jail time, so it’s important that you fill out your taxes accurately and file them on time. Read more

Estate Administrator Responsibilities

What Are the Tax Responsibilities of an Estate Administrator?

Losing a close friend or loved one is always a heartbreaking event, but when that loss is coupled with the responsibilities of managing their estate, the ensuing stress and grief can feel overwhelming.

If you have been named as the administrator for a loved one’s estate, the following information should alleviate some of that stress, and it can help you achieve a smooth financial transition for the deceased person’s beneficiaries. Read more

How to Secure a Home Loan When Dealing With a Tax Lien

How to Secure a Home Loan When Dealing With a Tax Lien

In most cases, mortgage lenders are willing to look past certain types and amounts of debts. However, when it comes to tax liabilities, things can get complicated in a hurry. If you’re behind on your federal income taxes, the IRS might place a lien on your property and assets, which can be especially concerning for lenders.

Thankfully, there are certain actions you can take to eliminate your tax issues and move forward with the home of your dreams. Read on to learn more. Read more

9 Tax Audit Consequences for Business Owners

9 Tax Audit Consequences for Business Owners

This post was written by our friends at Larry L. Bertsch, CPA & Associates, a top certified public accountants firm that has been offering quality accounting and tax preparation services to the entire Las Vegas market since 2003. For help with your business accounting and tax prep needs, please contact them to schedule a free consultation by calling (410) 872-8376 or completing this brief form. 

Reporting taxes for your business is usually more complicated than reporting taxes for your personal life. Unfortunately, this means you’re more liable to err in your reporting, which might cause the IRS to slam you with expensive penalties and other consequences you might not have known existed.  

With the help of an experienced tax accountant, however, you may be able to avoid some of the more common and severe consequences if you do overlook something.  Read more

How to Determine and Pay Estimated Quarterly Taxes

How to Determine and Pay Estimated Quarterly Taxes

 

Individuals who work for themselves — freelancers, S corporation shareholders, etc. — make income that isn’t subject to income tax withholding from the IRS or the State of Maryland. However, these people still have to pay income taxes on their earnings.

Unfortunately, every year, millions of these individuals find themselves totally unprepared when they receive their tax bill from Uncle Sam, and many of them wind up paying additional penalties and fees as a result.

The best way to avoid these unpleasant surprises: making estimated quarterly tax payments. Read more

Income Tax Payment Options Explained

Income Tax Payment Options Explained

If you filed your income taxes and discovered that you owe the IRS or the State of Maryland, you have several options when it comes to repayment, even if you can’t pay the entire sum at once. (If you haven’t filed yet, be sure to do so before the April 17 deadline, as failure to do so may result in penalties and interest).

Keep reading to learn more about your tax repayment options. Read more

get ready for tax season

5 Tips to Help You Get Ready for Tax Season

Tax Season Is Right Around the Corner — Start Preparing Now!

With tax season on the horizon, now is the time to begin preparing to file your returns, especially if you haven’t filed in recent years or have a history of tax liabilities.

Regardless of your situation, every year there are certain steps you can take to lighten your load, reduce your stress, and keep your bank account healthy. Follow these five tips to make this a simple and successful tax season. Read more

Simple Tax Deductions for Small Businesses and the Self-Employed

Simple Tax Deductions for Small Businesses and the Self-Employed

Every year, millions of Americans miss out on valuable tax deductions, and perhaps no sector of the population loses bigger than small business owners and self-employed individuals.

According to the Small Business & Entrepreneurial Council, small businesses with fewer than 20 workers and non-employer businesses together make up almost 98% of the businesses in America. This fact shows the enormity of the situation: if 98% of American companies took better advantage of valuable tax deductions, that large sector of the economy could get an enormous infusion of capital and perhaps grow significantly. Read more