Fittante and Colenso, CPA, PC

04/29/2026

Missed the April 15 tax deadline? ⌛

File as soon as possible to help limit penalties and interest, especially if you owe taxes. An extension gives you more time to file, but not more time to pay.

If you can’t pay the full balance, still file and pay what you can. The IRS offers payment options and installment plans, and if you’re due a refund, there’s no penalty for filing late, but you do need to file to receive it.

04/21/2026

If you’re waiting on your refund, there are a few easy ways to check the status.

You can use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool, the IRS mobile app, or the automated refund hotline.

Taxpayers can also opt in through their IRS Online Account to get email notifications when their refund status updates.

Most refunds are issued in less than 21 days, but delays can happen. Common reasons include math errors, missing direct deposit information, amended returns, or claims involving certain credits or injured spouse relief.

04/15/2026

Tax day is here! If you haven't already, don't forget to file your tax return today.

04/12/2026

If you received unemployment benefits in 2025, make sure you have your 1099-G before filing your tax return.

Michigan workers can download it through their MiWAM account, and it’s important to review it carefully since unemployment benefits are taxable and the amount shown may differ from what was received due to certain deductions.

If your 1099-G is missing, incorrect, or shows benefits you never received, don’t ignore it. That could be a sign of identity theft or an issue that needs to be corrected before you file.

1099-G Information

04/09/2026

As filing season winds down, taxpayers should still stay alert for scams. Ghost preparers and fake tax credit claims can lead to inaccurate returns, delayed refunds, audits, penalties, and interest.

A few red flags to watch for:

- A paid preparer who refuses to sign the return or provide a PTIN
- Promises of unusually large refunds
- Claims that you qualify for credits without reviewing your situation
- Advice based on social media trends instead of trusted tax guidance

Taxpayers are ultimately responsible for what’s filed under their name, so it’s important to work with a qualified tax professional and ask questions before signing anything.

04/08/2026

If you earn income through side work, apps, or online sales, there are a few important updates to know for this tax season. Gig income is always reportable, even if you don’t receive a tax form, and recent changes may help reduce your taxable income.

Key updates for gig workers:
• Up to $25,000 in qualified tips may be deductible (2025–2028)
• Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction is now permanent
• 1099-K threshold returns to $20,000 and 200+ transactions
• 100% bonus depreciation may apply to certain business equipment

These changes can create real savings, but eligibility rules apply. Keeping accurate records throughout the year is key to making the most of these benefits.

04/02/2026

A new statewide initiative is putting financial literacy front and center this April, giving Michiganders tools to better understand and manage their money.

Read more here:

The initiative includes a new financial hub website called MIMoneyMatters.org

03/29/2026

As the April 15 deadline gets closer, taxpayers should stay alert for scams. The Michigan Department of Treasury will not call or email demanding immediate payment by gift card, wire transfer, or prepaid debit card, and it will not threaten arrest or ask for card numbers over the phone.

If something feels off, pause and verify before responding. Scammers often try to look official this time of year, so use a little extra caution to stay safe ☺️

Be vigilant: Michigan tax filers reminded the state won’t demand payment by gift card or wire transfer

03/26/2026

Education costs can add up quickly, but there are tax breaks that may help. The American Opportunity Tax Credit and Lifetime Learning Credit can reduce what eligible taxpayers owe, while deductions like student loan interest may help lower taxable income.

A few key ones to know:

📌 American Opportunity Tax Credit: up to $2,500 per eligible student, with up to $1,000 refundable
📌 Lifetime Learning Credit: up to $2,000 per return for qualifying education expenses
📌 Student loan interest deduction: up to $2,500 for eligible taxpayers
📌 Certain work-related education expenses may also be deductible in specific situations

If you paid for college, job training, or student loan interest, it may be worth taking a closer look before you file.

03/21/2026

❄️ Tax relief available for Northern Michigan residents and businesses impacted by recent winter storms. Individuals and businesses in select counties can request additional time to file state tax returns and make payments, with penalties and interest waived.

This relief is not automatic, taxpayers must contact the Michigan Department of Treasury to request it and provide details on how they were affected. If you think you may qualify, it’s worth reviewing your options and taking action.

Read more:

financing programs to meet the needs of local units of government including: Cities, Villages, Townships, Counties, and various special purpose units.

03/19/2026

Taxpayers may notice a change in their 2025 tax bill or refund this year thanks to new deductions and updated credits.

Recent changes include potential deductions for seniors, qualified tips, overtime, and passenger vehicle loan interest, along with updates to credits like the Adoption Credit and Child Tax Credit.

Because some of these changes are retroactive to the start of 2025, it’s especially important to keep good records and make sure you understand the eligibility rules. If you’re not sure how these updates affect your return, this is a good time to check in with your CPA.