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Hello from Apple Blossom Tax Service's New Blog!
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...

Melissa
Jul 11, 20252 min read


Tax Extensions: Why They’re Not a Bad Thing (& How They Actually Work)
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.

Melissa
Apr 134 min read


The IRS Online Accounts: What You Should Set Up Now
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.

Melissa
Apr 83 min read


California Tax Changes: What Will Be Different for California Taxpayers This Year
This blog explains what changed for California taxpayers filing 2025 returns in 2026, including SALT updates, conformity rules, and key state tax differences.

Melissa
Mar 314 min read


Taxes for First-Time Parents 2025: Congratulations and Deductions
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.

Melissa
Mar 163 min read


Tax Prep Checklist: How to Organize Your Tax Documents Without Feeling Overwhelmed
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.

Melissa
Feb 253 min read


New Gambling Tax Rules for 2026: What Sonoma County Gamblers Need to Know
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.

Melissa
Feb 103 min read


How Long to Keep Tax Records: A Simple Guide for California Taxpayers
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.

Melissa
Feb 33 min read


IRS Ending Paper Checks 2025: What This New Change Means for You
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.

Melissa
Jan 62 min read


What’s Changing for 2026 Retirement Contribution Limits? Here’s What You Should Know
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.

Melissa
Dec 23, 20252 min read


Paying Estimated Taxes Early: When It Makes Sense
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.

Melissa
Dec 18, 20251 min read


Wondering How to Approach 2025 Year-End Tax Planning? Here’s What Matters Most
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.

Melissa
Dec 15, 20252 min read


2025 Salt Deduction Limit Explained: Big News and Bigger Opportunities
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.

Melissa
Dec 1, 20253 min read


Your Small Business Year-End Checkup: Make Every Deduction Count Before December 31
Year end is close. Give your small business a quick checkup so every deduction counts before December 31. Reconcile bank and card accounts, clean up uncategorized items, confirm S corp reasonable compensation, review estimated taxes, and consider needed purchases now. A short projection today can prevent April surprises. If you want support, we can review your numbers, run a projection, or plan tax saving moves for a strong start to 2026.

Melissa
Nov 14, 20252 min read


What Trump’s Tax Bill means for Seniors on Social Security
Discover how Trump's Tax Bill for Seniors impacts your Social Security. Learn about deductions and phase-outs. See if you qualify today!

Melissa
Oct 22, 20252 min read


NO TAX ON TIPS: Here is what Trump's tax bill means for tipped workers.
Starting this coming tax season with your 2025 filing return, tipped workers can deduct of up to 25,000 of Qualified Tips

Melissa
Sep 19, 20253 min read


SALT Deduction 2025 in California: What it means for homeowners
Big tax change on the horizon. The SALT deduction is getting some relief.

Melissa
Sep 5, 20252 min read


Solar and EV Tax Credits 2025 California: What You Need to Know Now
Residential solar and EV tax credits are ending under Trump’s tax bill. Here’s what Santa Rosa and Sebastopol homeowners should know and how to plan in 2025.

Melissa
Aug 22, 20253 min read


Summer at Apple Blossom Tax Service: What We’re Up To
Summer flowers! Hi friends, It’s summertime, and while things at Apple Blossom Tax Service are still busy, it’s a different kind of busy....

Melissa
Jul 17, 20253 min read


Let’s Talk Cash Flow: Making Your Money Work for You
Our Beautiful Sonoma Coast Hi friends, If you're a business owner - or even just someone with a healthy checking account - this one’s for...

Melissa
Jul 14, 20252 min read
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