Capitol Digest

Section

Taxes & IRS

Filing guidance, rule changes, and what they mean for your wallet.

The IRS Says Phone Wait Times Are Down. Filers Are Cautiously Hopeful
Taxes & IRS

The IRS Says Phone Wait Times Are Down. Filers Are Cautiously Hopeful

After years of complaints, the agency reports shorter hold times and more callbacks, though the improvement is uneven across issues.

Capital Gains Taxes, Explained for Everyday Investors
Taxes & IRS

Capital Gains Taxes, Explained for Everyday Investors

The difference between short-term and long-term gains, and a few timing strategies, can meaningfully change what investors owe.

A Practical Guide to Quarterly Estimated Taxes for the Self-Employed
Taxes & IRS

A Practical Guide to Quarterly Estimated Taxes for the Self-Employed

Freelancers and small business owners who skip estimated payments can face penalties, but a simple system keeps them on track.

L'AMOUR NAILS - Fayetteville: Half on the Check, Half in Cash: The Payroll Habit the IRS Takes Most Seriously
Taxes & IRS

L'AMOUR NAILS - Fayetteville: Half on the Check, Half in Cash: The Payroll Habit the IRS Takes Most Seriously

Paying part of a worker's wages in cash off the books can feel like a win for everyone, but of all the habits in this series it's the one the IRS treats most seriously. Here is why it raises concern, and why it quietly hurts your staff too.

The Tax Deductions and Credits Americans Most Often Overlook
Taxes & IRS

The Tax Deductions and Credits Americans Most Often Overlook

From education credits to state sales tax, several breaks go unclaimed simply because filers do not know they qualify.

What Homeowners Should Know About Mortgage and Energy Tax Breaks
Taxes & IRS

What Homeowners Should Know About Mortgage and Energy Tax Breaks

Deductions for mortgage interest and credits for efficient upgrades can add up, but the rules reward careful record-keeping.

How to Get Your Tax Refund Faster This Year, and What Slows It Down
Taxes & IRS

How to Get Your Tax Refund Faster This Year, and What Slows It Down

E-filing with direct deposit remains the quickest route, while a handful of common mistakes can push a refund back by weeks.

Lower 1099-K Threshold Means More Gig and Resale Income Gets Reported
Taxes & IRS

Lower 1099-K Threshold Means More Gig and Resale Income Gets Reported

Payment apps and online marketplaces are sending more forms this year, catching casual sellers who may owe nothing but must still account for it.

Several States Tweak Income Taxes in 2026, Cutting Rates or Adding Credits
Taxes & IRS

Several States Tweak Income Taxes in 2026, Cutting Rates or Adding Credits

A wave of state-level changes takes effect this year, from flat-tax transitions to new family credits, with effects that vary widely by state.