HJP Lakes Financial Solutions

The IRS Offer in Compromise Program Helps People Settle Tax Debts

People who cannot pay their tax bills in full have options to resolve the situation. One of these options is the Offer in Compromise (OIC) program, which allows eligible people to settle their debts with the IRS for less than the full amount owed.

Anyone interested in submitting an OIC proposal should begin by checking whether they qualify for the program, which can be done using the IRS Pre-Qualifier tool online (link below). People who meet the basic eligibility requirements may then submit an OIC application. In most cases, the application must be accompanied by a $205 fee and an initial payment toward the tax debt. However, these requirements may be waived for lower-income applicants.

An OIC application must be carefully prepared and provide detailed information to the IRS. Beware of aggressive ads touting supposed opportunities to settle tax debts quickly for a small fraction of the amount due. The agencies behind those ads, known as OIC mills, charge high fees to churn out applications, most of which get rejected by the IRS. A trusted tax professional can help ensure that an OIC application is complete and accurate, and has a reasonable chance of acceptance.

OIC Pre-Qualifier Online Tool: https://irs.treasury.gov/oic_pre_qualifier/

What does your ideal retirement look like?

Most people spend years preparing for retirement income, but many overlook one of the biggest financial risks in retirement—long-term care expenses.

The reality is that a long-term care event can impact your health, independence, family, and finances. Having a plan in place today can help protect your assets and provide more choices tomorrow.

Planning ahead gives you:
✔ More control over your care options
✔ Greater financial confidence
✔ Less burden on your loved ones
✔ More flexibility to live life on your terms

The best time to plan is before you need it.

📅 Thursday, June 18, 2026
🕗 8:00 PM ET
📍 Online Workshop

Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/cvVQZN4NQnmBJvhsniEmLw

Join us for this educational workshop and discover how proactive planning today can help you enjoy greater confidence and security tomorrow.

Your future deserves more than hope—it deserves a strategy.

Social Security planning starts at an early age. Here is what you should be doing now!

Social Security Planning Starts Now for EVERYONE - Plus: Trump Account ALERT! Too many think to pay attention to Social Security only when they near retirement. Do this at your own risk! Even those in their 20s should be taking action. Here are some tips.

Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments – Reminder

If you are making quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS, the due date for the April 1–May 31, 2026, payment period is coming up next Monday, June 15, 2026.

If you use IRS Direct Pay, payments can generally be made until 11:45 p.m. ET on the due date. If you pay by credit or debit card through an IRS-authorized payment processor, payments can generally be made until 11:59 p.m. ET on the due date.

Your 401(k) or IRA may be your largest retirement asset. Learn how to maximize it, protect it, and create income you can count on in retirement.

Reminder: Second quarter estimated taxes are due Monday, June 15th.

Reminder: Second Quarter Estimated Taxes Are Due - Now is the time to make your estimated tax payment If you have not already done so, please plan to make your second quarter estimated tax payment. The due date is Monday, June 15th.

💰 Small Changes. Big Results.

Most people don't become financially successful because of one big decision. They get there through small, consistent habits.

✅ Save before you spend.
✅ Buy what you need, not just what you want.
✅ Let time and consistency work for you.

Consider this:

$10 per day = $300 per month

Invested consistently over time, that small habit could potentially grow into a significant financial asset.

The question isn't whether you can afford to save.

The question is: Can you afford not to?

Your future depends on the choices you make today.

What is one small financial habit you're committed to improving this month?

Summer Activities and Taxes – Did You Know?

Summer is a time to relax and have fun, but some seasonal activities may have tax consequences. Being aware of them now may save you time and hassle later.

If your child attends a day camp so you can work or look for work, some of the cost may qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit. Be sure to keep records and obtain the camp's tax identification information.

Students with summer jobs may be entitled to tax refunds if income tax is withheld from their pay. Adults earning income from seasonal, part-time, or gig work may need additional withholding or quarterly estimated tax payments.

Summer is also a popular wedding season. If you change your name after marriage, update your records with the Social Security Administration. If you move, update your address with the IRS and submit a new Form W-4 to your employer so your withholding reflects your current tax situation.

Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Career Discovery Event. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting. Explore Rewarding Opportunities in Financial Services Are you looking for a flexible career, additional income, professional growth, or a way to make a meaningful impact? Join us for a Career Discovery Event and learn how individuals from diverse backgrounds are building successful careers in the fi...

The IRS sends you a notice! What to do? This month's letter walks you through the process, plus much more!

Tax Insight Digest: June 2026 As summer settles in and schedules fill up, a few smart decisions now can help you avoid costly surprises later. In this issue, there are strategies to strengthen your financial footing – from midyear tax planning opportunities to knowing when to call for help with an IRS notice. There is also...