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Find Out
What The IRS “Has”
On You

We’ll Cut Through the Red Tape to Get Your IRS File.

You would be surprised to see what information the IRS keeps on file about you. Of course, gaining access to that file and then interpreting that information is best left to a professional who understands the system. There is no need, after all, to raise any red flags through your requests.

We can get a copy of your IRS file and help you determine how that file might help you resolve any current tax problems.

Ready to come in for an appointment?

Our schedule is very full…but if you call us at (831) 251-0861 or email us we’ll give you two options for coming in right away! We will NOT make dealing with a tax professional as painful as it’s been in the past!

Do You Have to Pay Taxes On Sports Betting? What Santa Cruz County Bettors Need To Know

Key TakeawaysThe IRS considers all sports betting payouts as ordinary income, regardless of the amount or whether you received a tax form. For the 2026 tax year, you can only deduct 90% of your gambling losses against your winnings, even if you ended the year...
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The Santa Cruz County Taxpayer’s Guide: How Do I Calculate My Federal Tax Withholding?

Key TakeawaysA large refund is an interest-free loan to the government, while a big bill suggests you are at risk for IRS underpayment penalties. Updating your Form W-4 by late April allows you to spread adjustments across the majority of the year, minimizing the...
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How Does Self-Employment Tax Work For Santa Cruz County Taxpayers Leaving Their 9-to-5?

Key TakeawaysAs a W-2 employee, you pay half of Social Security and Medicare tax through withholding. As a self-employed taxpayer, you pay both halves through self-employment tax. Self-employment tax is 15.3% of your adjusted net earnings, and you also pay...
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Mistakes Santa Cruz County Taxpayers Should Avoid When Filing For a Federal Tax Extension

Key TakeawaysA federal extension provides six extra months to file, but all taxes owed must still be paid by the April 15th deadline to avoid penalties and interest. For 2026, the IRS assesses a 0.5% monthly failure-to-pay penalty plus 7% annual interest...
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s the Self-Employment Tax Credit Real? And Other Tax Scams Santa Cruz County Taxpayers Should Watch For

Key TakeawaysToday’s tax scams look professional, sound convincing, and are built to get your Social Security number, filing credentials, or signature on a bad return. A big refund promise is one of the clearest warning signs of a scam. You are responsible...
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Will the IRS Ever Call You On the Phone? 6 Tax Scams for Santa Cruz County Taxpayers to Avoid

Key TakeawaysThe IRS does not initiate first contact by phone, text, email, or social media. Initial contact is generally made by mail. A message demanding immediate payment, threatening arrest, or asking for gift cards, crypto, or banking information is a...
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Philip B. Hebner, CPA, EA’s Top 4 Reasons For Filing a Tax Extension

Key TakeawaysA federal tax extension gives you until October 15 to file your individual return, but it does not extend the time to pay tax due. Filing an extension makes sense when your return would otherwise be incomplete or inaccurate. You should consider...
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How Do Taxes for Freelancers and Santa Cruz County Gig Workers Work?

Key TakeawaysIf you had freelance or side gig income in 2025, you report it on Schedule C. If your net profit is $400 or more, you also file Schedule SE for self-employment tax. Even if you never receive a 1099, your freelance or side gig income is still...
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How Long Should My Tax Refund Take? What Santa Cruz County Taxpayers Can Expect

Key TakeawaysMost federal tax refunds are issued within 10–21 days after the IRS accepts your e-filed return. E-filing with direct deposit is the fastest method, usually delivering refunds within about three weeks. Returns claiming credits like the Earned...
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Are IRA Contributions Deductible for Santa Cruz County Savers?

Key TakeawaysTraditional IRA contributions may be deductible, depending on your income, filing status, and whether you or your spouse are covered by a workplace retirement plan Roth IRA contributions are not deductible, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are...
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