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Currently Not Collectible

Are You Eligible for Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status?

If you owe the IRS or State of Maryland back taxes but are unable to pay them because of other financial obligations, you might be eligible for Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status. CNC status is a special designation which gives taxpayers a temporary hold on collections, during which time they are “protected” from collection efforts.

Keep reading to learn more about Currently Not Collectible status, your potential eligibility for the program, and how to request CNC status. Read more

5 Common Tax Myths Debunked College Student

5 Common Tax Myths Debunked

Myths surrounding income taxes are as common as mosquitoes this time of year. Everyone wants to save money (we want you to save money, too), but people have a habit of believing these myths and getting into hot water with the IRS or State of Maryland. Some of these tall tales are actually rooted in fact, but most of them are pure fantasy. Keep reading to learn about the most frequent myths we hear at S.H. Block Tax Services, as well as the origin of each and whether there’s even a shred of truth to the fiction. Read more

Common Tax Scams

Protect Yourself From These 5 Common Tax Scams

Tax scams are one of those misfortunes that most people believe they’ll never have to deal with. Unfortunately, these scams are far more common than you might think, and they can affect many aspects of your life, such as your bank account, your credit score, and even your personal property and business assets — among several others.

Every year, the IRS releases a list of the 12 most common current tax scams, which they refer to as “The Dirty Dozen.” In this article, we’ll review the top five scams on their list for 2018, explain how they work, and provide helpful tips to keep you, your family, and your business safe and secure. Read more

Eric M. Bielitz

Meet the Newest Member of the S.H. Block Team, Eric M. Bielitz

S.H. Block Tax Services recently expanded our staff by welcoming Eric M. Bielitz to our dedicated team. Mr. Bielitz has joined the firm as an associate attorney focusing on tax resolution. He began working with S.H. Block Tax Services in February of 2018, but his interest in the law goes back much further than his recent hire.

Recently, I sat down with Eric to discuss his background, his goals for the firm and our clients, and his interests away from work. Keep reading to learn more about Mr. Bielitz, his passion for the law, and his desire to help Maryland taxpayers resolve their tax issues and re-enter compliance with the IRS and the State of Maryland. Read more

Misconceptions About Tax Lawyers

Great Expectations: What Your Tax Attorney Can and Can’t Do for You

When individuals and small business owners get in over their heads with their taxes, they often contact a tax resolution attorney to help them square their problems with the IRS or their state government — and with good reason!

Most tax resolution lawyers have years of specialized training and experience working with clients just like you, but that doesn’t mean they can solve all your problems overnight. However, if you choose the right firm, they may be able to help you reduce or even eliminate your tax issues within a reasonable time frame. But it’s important to set reasonable goals from the start and follow your attorney’s instructions to the letter if you want them (and by extension, you) to succeed. 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

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

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