People should donate carefully after a disaster to avoid scams
After an emergency or disaster, people rally to help victims by donating money. Unfortunately, this can give criminals an opportunity to prey on them by soliciting donations for fake charities. Scammers may also pose as…
Debunking myths about federal tax refunds
Once taxpayers file their federal tax returns, they’re eager for details about their refund. When it comes to refunds, there are several common myths that can mislead taxpayers. Myth: Calling the IRS, tax software provider,…
Taxpayers should be sure to have all their info before going to a tax pro
Taxpayers using a professional tax preparer should make sure they have all their information readily available before their appointment. Collecting their information and getting copies of any missing documents before taxpayers sit down to prepare…
What people should do if their third-round Economic Impact Payments are missing or incorrect
In 2021, the IRS issued more than 175 million third-round Economic Impact Payments, totaling over $400 billion. Most eligible people already received the full amount of their credit in advance and don’t need to include…
Why it may take longer than 21 days for some taxpayers to receive their federal refund
The IRS issues most refunds in fewer than 21 days for taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit. However, some returns have errors or need more review and may take longer to process. The…
What taxpayers should do if they have incorrect or missing documents
Taxpayers should make sure they have all their documents before filing a tax return. Taxpayers who haven’t received a W-2 or Form 1099 should contact the employer, payer or issuing agency and request the missing…
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Privacy Policy Last updated: November 4th, 2021 Stefforia, Petik And & Carlson CPA’s (“us”, “we”, or “our”) operates the Stefforia, Petik And & Carlson CPA website (the “Service”). This page informs you of our policies…
Protect yourself from scammers by knowing how the IRS communicates
If the IRS does call it should not be a surprise because the agency will generally send a notice or letter first. Understanding how the IRS communicates can help you protect yourself from scammers who…
Here’s how taxpayers can track the status of their refund
Tracking the status of a tax refund is easy with the Where’s My Refund? tool. It’s conveniently accessible at IRS.gov or through the IRS2Go App. Taxpayers can start checking their refund status within 24 hours after an e-filed…
What to do if you missed the July 15 deadline to file and pay your taxes
While the federal income tax-filing deadline has passed for most people, some taxpayers haven’t filed their 2019 tax returns yet. If you are entitled to a refund, there’s no penalty for filing late. Penalties and…
Remember these tips when searching for a tax preparer
The tax filing season is upon us, and if you will be looking for someone to help you file a tax return you should choose your tax return preparer wisely. This is because it’s ultimately you who is…
Helpful Articles

Tips for taxpayers who need to file a new W-4
All taxpayers should review their withholding annually. They can use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to check and make sure they’re not having too little or too much federal tax withheld. This tool offers workers, retirees and…

Millions of taxpayers will receive their second Economic Impact Payments by debit card
The Treasury Department and the IRS are issuing millions of second Economic Impact Payments by prepaid debit card to speed delivery of the payments to as many people as possible. If the Get My Payment tool on IRS.gov shows…

Important reminders for people filing their tax return at the last minute
The April deadline for filing a 2021 tax return is near, but IRS tax help is available 24 hours a day on IRS.gov. Whether filing a tax return, requesting an extension, or making a payment,…

What to do if you missed the July 15 deadline to file and pay your taxes
While the federal income tax-filing deadline has passed for most people, some taxpayers haven’t filed their 2019 tax returns yet. If you are entitled to a refund, there’s no penalty for filing late. Penalties and…

Taxpayer’s who need a copy of last year’s tax return have several options
Help is available for taxpayers who need tax information for prior years, but who didn’t keep copies of their returns. There are options for helping taxpayers get the information they need. Taxpayers should generally keep…

IRS alerts taxpayers: Scammers scheming around Oct. 15 deadline; Here’s what to do
IR-2018-193, Sept. 27, 2018 WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service is reminding taxpayers to beware of criminals who continue using devious tactics to steal money and personal information from unsuspecting victims, especially as the fall…

Highlights from 2022 National Tax Security Awareness Week
The IRS and its Security Summit partners recently held the annual National Tax Security Awareness Week. The Security Summit is a longstanding partnership between the IRS, state tax administrators and the tax software and tax professional community….

Taxpayers should review the 401(k) and IRA limit increases for 2023
The amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2023 will increase to $22,500 — up from $20,500 for 2022. The income ranges for determining eligibility to make deductible contributions to traditional IRAs, contribute…
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