If this year's tax return was more painful than you expected, you're not alone. Surprises can happen when you're not actively planning. Still, a surprise bill or a smaller refund than you'd hoped for can throw off your entire financial rhythm. That's why right now is the best time to take control of next year's outcome instead of waiting for the tax season to catch you off guard again. Meeting with a CPA in the off-season can help you analyze the previous year, gain an understanding of what happened, and make recommendations as to what to do differently going forward.

Lots of people only think about taxes once a year, typically around the April deadline. But keeping up with your tax situation throughout the year can save you money and help you avoid surprises. You don't have to own a business or have a complex financial life to benefit from it. Anyone who wants to feel more in control should consider a year-round approach. At Myrick CPA, we help our clients plan ahead so tax season doesn't catch them off guard. Here are a few steps you can take now to make filing easier later.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be a powerful tool for covering medical costs while offering long-term financial benefits. If you already have an HSA or are thinking about opening one, now is a good time to understand how upcoming changes from the IRS will affect your account.

Many people approach tax planning as a once-a-year scramble before the filing deadline, but this short-term thinking can cause you to miss valuable opportunities that a longer view can provide. When you look beyond just this year's tax return, and plan for the long haul, you'll keep more of your money, grow your savings faster, and build something lasting for your family. Think of it as planting financial seeds today that your family can harvest for generations.

When most people think about taxes, they picture gathering documents and racing to meet the filing deadline. But there's a lot more to managing taxes than filing once a year. Tax preparation and tax strategy may sound similar, but they serve very different purposes. While one focuses on compliance, the other focuses on building long-term financial benefits.

Let's break down these concepts and explain why working with a trusted CPA can make a significant difference in your financial outlook.

As the end of the year approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday rush. Still, setting aside a little time to organize your tax documents now to get ahead of the time crunch can save you stress heading into the new year. 

Here are some simple ways to get your documents in order and tips on setting up your tax planning meeting.

The IRS recently adjusted Health Savings Accounts (HSA) rules for 2025. If you've been using an HSA as part of your financial plan, now is a great time to revisit your strategy to ensure it's still working as well as possible. Understanding these new changes is a vital part of making sure you're maximizing your tax savings and the benefits of your HSA.

Getting a big tax refund might feel like a financial win, but there’s another side to the story. While it’s nice to receive a check from the IRS, that money was yours all along. In essence, you’ve been giving the government an interest-free loan. Let’s take a closer look at tax refunds and how you can keep more of your money throughout the year.

When it comes to managing your taxes, understanding the difference between tax preparation and tax planning can have a major impact on your overall financial health. While both services are vital, they serve different purposes and offer unique benefits. Finding out what sets them apart, and why hiring a CPA to help you with both prep and planning can be a game-changer for your finances.

As tax season begins to wind down, you're likely breathing a sigh of relief, with your financial documents and receipts soon to be stowed away until next year. Before you tuck those files away, consider this: the very best time to craft your tax savings plan is actually right now.