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When engaging with our services, there are three main forms you may encounter: Engagement Letter, Individual Consent Form, and IRS Form 8879. These documents are essential for ensuring a smooth and compliant process for your tax preparation needs. Engagement Letter The engagement letter outlines the agreement between Martin Starnes & Associates CPAs, P.A. and the […]

Over the past several years, the tax treatment of employer-provided meals has shifted multiple times. During the COVID relief period, many business meals were temporarily 100% deductible. Since then, most business meals have been subject to a 50% deduction limit, with certain employee-related meals qualifying for full deductibility. Beginning in 2026, an important change takes […]

IRS Moving Toward Electronic Tax Refunds The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is in the process of moving away from paper refund checks and toward electronic payments. This change is part of a federal effort to modernize how payments are sent to and from the government and to reduce delays, fraud, and administrative costs. Paper Refund […]

As tax season begins, be on the lookout for your W-2 or 1099 forms. If you do not receive a form or notice that the information is incorrect, it is important to address the issue promptly. These forms are essential for filing your tax return accurately. Here are the steps you should take: For further […]

The IRS reminds employers and businesses that wage statements and certain information returns must be filed by February 2, 2026. This includes Form W-2 for employees and Form 1099-NEC for independent contractors. Copies must also be provided to employees and contractors by this date. All forms must be submitted electronically or postmarked by February 2, […]

Listen to article Every year, millions of Americans miss out on federal tax credits that could lower their tax bill or increase their refund. These credits can help pay for education, child care, health insurance, and even retirement savings. Many people simply do not know these credits exist or think they do not qualify. Tax […]

Do Not Let These Common RMD Mistakes Cost You You may be responsible for taking a Required Minimum Distribution, also called an RMD. Missing this requirement or handling it incorrectly can lead to penalties of up to 25 percent. Understanding the rules now can help protect your savings and prevent an unnecessary tax bill. If […]

Businesses and individuals who received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans in 2020 or 2021 are being targeted by scammers attempting to gain access to their bank accounts. Because the government required PPP loan information to be made public, including recipient names, locations, and loan amounts, fraudsters are using this data to pose as legitimate bank representatives. These scams […]

 🎧 Listen to the article Note: Article adapted from Forbes. MSA reviewed and updated select items for accuracy in consultation with our CPAs. As 2025 draws to a close, taxpayers have a rare chance to benefit from the sweeping One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The law introduced new deductions, higher limits, and expanded credits—but […]

You Can Deduct Tips and Overtime. But Not in Your Paycheck Yet Here’s what that means for you The IRS just announced that some of the reporting and paycheck-related changes tied to the Tips and Overtime deductions will be delayed until 2026. Here’s what you need to know: Starting with your 2025 tax return, you […]