Episode 138: Tax Traps and Smart Moves: What Taxpayers Should Fix Before It Costs Them

In this episode: A practical look at proposed IRS reform and why better customer service, clearer appeals rights, and stronger taxpayer advocacy matter to everyday taxpayers and business owners. A timely reminder about April tax deadlines, including the difference between an extension to file and an extension to pay. What taxpayers should know about the IRS shift away from paper checks, and how that could affect refunds, estimates, and tax payments. A candid discussion about what happens when you owe the IRS, including payment plan options, costly mistakes, and why tax planning matters more than panic. Easy-to-follow insights on gift and estate planning strategies, including annual gifting rules and key filing requirements families often miss. A useful overview of charitable giving strategies through IRAs and how they may benefit certain taxpayers. Important filing issues that can come up after the death of a spouse, including deadlines and portability considerations. Common audit triggers, popular tax scams, and the kinds of "too good to be true" tax advice business owners should avoid.