Essential Solutions LLC

06/26/2026

It's not always a good idea to amend a tax return. Do you know how to choose?

Oops! You find an error or omission on last year's tax return. What should you do? Is it always a good idea to file an amended tax return? Here are some things to consider.

06/22/2026

New IRS Portal for Reporting Fraud and Scams

The IRS has launched a new portal that makes it easier to report instances of tax fraud, identity theft, IRS impersonation and other tax-related scams. On the new webpage (link below), people and businesses can report:

- Fake IRS phone calls, emails, and text and social media messages. Scammers posing as government agents often threaten people with arrest unless they submit immediate payments, often in a specific format like gift cards. The IRS does not operate in this way.
- Suspected tax fraud, such as tax evasion schemes or illegal use of offshore accounts.
- Identity theft, which should always be reported to the IRS immediately, even if other government and law enforcement agencies know about the crime.
- Suspicious tax preparation practices, such as a paid tax preparer refusing to sign your return or altering your income figures.

Citizen reporting often plays a critical role in catching scammers and bringing them to justice. This new system makes the process of filing a report less confusing and much more convenient.

IRS Fraud Reporting Site: https://www.irs.gov/help/report-fraud

06/19/2026

Looking for tax-free income? Here's a list of the more common types.

There's a lot of income the IRS doesn't tax. Here are a few of the more common types.

06/15/2026

IRS Offer in Compromise Program – Did You Know?

People who cannot pay their tax bills in full may have options to resolve the situation. One of these options is the Offer in Compromise (OIC) program, which allows eligible taxpayers to settle their debts with the IRS for less than the full amount owed.

Anyone considering an OIC should first check whether they qualify using the IRS Pre-Qualifier tool online (link below). Eligible taxpayers may then submit an application. In most cases, the application must be accompanied by a $205 fee and an initial payment toward the tax debt, although these requirements may be waived for lower-income applicants.

An OIC application requires detailed financial information and must be carefully prepared. Beware of aggressive ads promising to settle tax debts quickly for a small fraction of the amount owed. Companies behind these ads, often referred to as OIC mills, may charge substantial fees while submitting applications for people who have little chance of qualifying. A trusted tax professional can help ensure that an OIC application is complete, accurate, and has a reasonable chance of acceptance.

OIC Pre-Qualifier Online Tool: https://irs.treasury.gov/oic_pre_qualifier/

06/12/2026

Important Deadline for Taxpayers: July 10, 2026

The Kwong v. United States ruling found that COVID-19 extended IRS deadlines — which means penalties and interest assessed during 2020–2022 may have been improper.

If you paid late penalties or still owe IRS fees from those years, you may be entitled to a refund or penalty removal. But you must act before the deadline.

📅 July 10, 2026 is the last day to file a protective claim — and missing it could permanently cost you. This is the date IRS has to have the form sent. Not when you notify us of your interest!

📞 Contact Essential Solutions, LLC today for a free review of your situation. We'll tell you if you qualify and handle the filing for you.

👇 DM us or call 205-663-8686 — don't leave money on the table.

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06/12/2026

Social Security planning starts at an early age. Here is what you should be doing now!

Too many think to pay attention to Social Security only when they near retirement. Do this at your own risk! Even those in their 20s should be taking action. Here are some tips.

06/08/2026

Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments – Reminder

If you are making quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS, the due date for the April 1–May 31, 2026, payment period is coming up next Monday, June 15, 2026.

If you use IRS Direct Pay, payments can generally be made until 11:45 p.m. ET on the due date. If you pay by credit or debit card through an IRS-authorized payment processor, payments can generally be made until 11:59 p.m. ET on the due date.

06/05/2026

Reminder: Second quarter estimated taxes are due Monday, June 15th.

If you have not already done so, please plan to make your second quarter estimated tax payment. The due date is Monday, June 15th.

06/03/2026

The IRS sends you a notice! What to do? This month's letter walks you through the process, plus much more!

As summer settles in and schedules fill up, a few smart decisions now can help you avoid costly surprises later. In this issue, there are strategies to strengthen your financial footing – from midyear tax planning opportunities to knowing when to call for help with an IRS notice. There is also...

06/01/2026

If you want your tip deduction this year, you need to watch video.

Receive overtime pay & want the "No Tax on Overtime" deduction? Watch this video. Overtime pay is now required to be separately listed on your W-2. Failing to do so could jeopardize your eligibility.