John M Lieder, CPA LLC

03/01/2026

Article in Kiplinger about what to expect if you paper file your return.

The IRS launched its Zero Paper Initiative last year to speed up paper tax return processing. The project isn’t going well.

02/18/2026

Article is worth a read regarding possible scam trick out there.

A fake CAPTCHA scam is tricking Windows users into running PowerShell commands that install StealC malware and steal passwords, crypto wallets, and more.

02/18/2026

Just a reminder, I have recently had a couple of clients email me some of their tax documents to use in preparation of their tax returns. As I have responded to them, you should never use regular email to send tax documents, ESPECIALLY IF THEY HAVE YOUR SS # ON THEM. Regular email is not secure.

Rather, ask your tax preparer if they have a portal or secure email service that you can use to transmit the documents. I use a secure encrypted email service that makes it easy to send confidential information between my clients and myself.

You don't want to potentially give away your social security number.

02/12/2026

This is the IRS website that has information on accessing free filing methods for the Federal Income tax return. Be aware, they may not include your state income tax return without a charge.

Prepare and file your federal income tax return online for free. File at an IRS partner site with the IRS Free File Program or use Free File Fillable Forms. It's safe, easy and no cost to you.

02/12/2026

Some tax refunds may take a little longer, but the wait is worthwhile: If you claim certain credits, the is required to wait until mid-February to issue your refund. information can help you find out when you can expect your refund. Where's My Refund will show an updated status by February 22.

Find more information at www.irs.gov/refundtiming.

02/12/2026

As of Sept 2025, the Federal government will not issue paper checks (other than in very limited circumstances). The plan is to also move to requiring all payments for taxes to be made electronically, however that has not been fully implemented as of now.

Paper checks were neato, but now we have a faster way to get you your refund. Direct deposit is the bees’ knees. You can get your refund in 21 days or less. If you need to make a payment, our electronic payment options are nifty. Paying electronically is like greased lightening and helps you avoid penalties and interest.

Get ready to make your payments burn rubber. Visit www.irs.gov/modernpayments.

01/06/2026

You should be aware of tax related issues that will be affected by changes in the way the Post Office will issue postmarks after Dec 24 2025. The postmark date will no longer be automatic on the date of mailing.

As a result of the new stipulation, the date stamped on mailed items may be several days later than when the mail was actually deposited, raising concerns for taxpayers who rely on the postmark to document the timing of charitable gifts.

10/12/2025

Democrats are scaling back free healthcare for illegal immigrants amidst unsustainable costs.

07/15/2025

It works better than not being nice

Being nice is one of tax controversy attorney Melissa Wiley’s ways of getting answers from the IRS, which also includes knowing the Internal Revenue Manual and using self-service tools.