Disposing of Documents

Disposing of Documents

One of the greatest joys of tax season is the disposing of another year’s tax returns and supporting documents. But how long should they be kept? I’ve always been an advocate of saving tax documents for seven years, because that is what my accountant colleagues...
RIP Checks

RIP Checks

In the old days, some 20 years ago, paying bills by check was the cheapest way. It avoided the fees associated with paying by phone, and in some cases, by wire.  Things have changed. Nowadays, it’s really not a good idea to mail any checks to anyone, especially...
Borrowing from Peter to Pay the IRS

Borrowing from Peter to Pay the IRS

If you’re still freaking out about your taxes, there is a solution that can be accomplished within a week. I’m talking about borrowing money to pay the tax man. The IRS is very much in favor of this option, even encouraging you to set up a payment plan anyway for some...
Why Are You Freaking Out About Your Taxes?

Why Are You Freaking Out About Your Taxes?

We all know that if there was no IRS, there would be no airports or interstates, because no one would pay their taxes. That said, I think their reputation for being cruel doesn’t line up with the facts. Their payment plans start out with a minimum, and then people...
More Questions for a New CPA

More Questions for a New CPA

I’m a very empathetic person — so much so that sometimes I break out in a cold sweat worrying about people I will never meet. Will they ask the right questions when they go to an accountant? Once again I’ve put together a list of questions for you to ask. How often...