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Our Sebastopol Offices! Hi friends, Whether your tax return is all buttoned up or you're still on extension, I just want to take a moment...

The years after you stop working but before RMDs begin can sometimes create a valuable tax-planning window. Learn when a Roth conversion may be worth considering and what to check before making the move.

Required minimum distributions can become complicated when retirement money is spread across several accounts. Learn when distributions begin, how the rules differ by account, and why planning early matters.

Required minimum distributions can become complicated when retirement money is spread across several accounts. Learn when distributions begin, how the rules differ by account, and why planning early matters.

Inherited IRAs do not work like other inherited assets. Before you take the money, understand taxable distributions, the 10-year rule, and how timing can affect your return.

Thinking about selling a vacation home, rental property, or other appreciated asset? Before you sell, learn how step-up in basis could affect the taxes you or your family may pay.

Hiring someone to help at home is a big decision. Before you hire a caregiver, nanny, or other household employee, learn your options, understand your responsibilities, and avoid common tax mistakes.

A bonus, job change, income shift, or life change can affect your tax picture. A mid-year tax check-in helps you adjust before spring brings a surprise.

Tax extensions are not a bad thing. Learn how they work, what they do, and why filing an extension can help you avoid mistakes and file more accurately.

The IRS is moving more activity online. Here’s what we’re seeing with clients and why setting up your IRS online account now can help avoid delays and follow-ups.

This blog explains what changed for California taxpayers filing 2025 returns in 2026, including SALT updates, conformity rules, and key state tax differences.

Welcomed a baby in 2025? Here’s what first-time parents need to know about tax credits, filing status changes, and what to review before filing in 2026.

This tax prep checklist helps you organize your tax documents, gather required forms, and create a simple system before filing. Reduce stress and avoid missing paperwork this season.

New gambling tax rules begin in 2026 and may increase taxable income for some players. Learn how the 90 percent loss limit works, why phantom income can occur, and what California gamblers should know before filing.

Not sure how long to keep tax records? For California taxpayers, keeping returns and supporting documents for at least seven years is a safe rule. This guide explains what to keep for seven years, what to keep permanently, and whether digital records are acceptable.

The IRS will stop accepting paper checks for certain payments beginning September 30, 2025. Learn how this affects you and why setting up an IRS online account and IP PIN can make next year’s tax season easier.

2026 retirement contribution limits for 401(k)s, IRAs, and HSAs are increasing. Melissa explains what’s changing, why it matters, and how to make the most of the new limits.

Many taxpayers wonder whether paying estimated taxes early is helpful. Melissa explains when early payments make sense, when they don’t, and how to decide what’s best for your situation.

As 2025 approaches, year-end tax planning becomes more important. Melissa shares how new deductions, energy credits, and capital gains opportunities may help reduce next year’s tax bill.

Learn how the new 2025 Salt Deduction Limit creates room for smarter planning. Melissa explains how higher SALT deductions can open opportunities for Roth conversions, capital gains decisions, and year-end strategies for Californians.