Fittante and Colenso, CPA, PC

07/20/2026

If you filed a tax extension in April, remember, your new deadline to file is October 15th. Use this time wisely to get everything ready for the deadline.

Need help getting your documents in order? We’re just a call away.

07/15/2026

The IRS has announced tax relief for individuals and businesses affected by Michigan's severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding, including those in Iron, Marquette, and Menominee counties.

Eligible taxpayers now have until November 2 to file certain federal tax returns and make qualifying tax payments that were originally due between April 10 and November 2. If you live or own a business in one of the affected counties and have questions about how this relief applies to you, we're happy to help you understand your options.

Affected individuals and businesses will have until Nov. 2, to file returns and pay any taxes originally due during this period.

07/13/2026

Recently tied the knot? Congrats!

Marriage brings a few tax changes that are easy to overlook but can make next year's filing season much smoother.

Be sure to:

☑️ Update your name with the Social Security Administration, if needed.
☑️ Notify the IRS, your employer, and other important organizations of any address change.
☑️ Review your tax withholding and submit a new Form W-4 if necessary.
☑️ Decide whether filing jointly or separately makes the most sense for your situation.
☑️ Keep your tax documents together and review any credits or deductions you may now qualify for.

07/08/2026

We're more than halfway through the year, making now a great time for a quick tax checkup.

A few things to review before the next filing season:

✅ Keep tax documents organized as you receive them.
✅ Check that your tax withholding still matches your current situation.
✅ Update your name or address if it has changed.
✅ Review your filing status if you've experienced a major life event, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
✅ If you're able, contribute to a retirement account. It may help reduce your taxable income.

Spending a few minutes now can save time, reduce stress, and help avoid surprises when it's time to file next year.

07/04/2026

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Fourth of July!

We hope you have the chance to relax, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy everything the holiday weekend has to offer.

Happy Independence Day from all of us at Fittante & Colenso.

06/30/2026

The IRS can't make changes to your tax return without giving you the opportunity to respond.

If you receive a notice you don't agree with, you have the right to submit supporting documentation, explain your position, and have your case reviewed. Depending on the situation, you may also have the right to appeal the decision before paying additional tax.

A few things to keep in mind:
-Most math or clerical error notices allow 60 days to respond.
-Save any records that support your position.
-Read every IRS notice carefully so you understand your options and any applicable deadlines.

Understanding your rights can make dealing with the IRS a little less stressful if a question or dispute ever comes up.

Publication 556 discusses general rules and procedures that IRS follows in examinations, what happens during an examination, your appeal rights, and how to file a claim for refund of tax you already paid.

06/18/2026

Summer plans can come with tax reminders, too.

A few common summer activities could impact your next tax return, including:
• Sending kids to summer day camp
• Getting married and changing your name or address
• Taking on part-time, seasonal, or gig work
• Traveling for business
• Selling digital assets to help pay for a vacation

Most people aren’t thinking about taxes during summer, but keeping good records now can make filing much easier later. If any of these apply to you, it’s worth knowing what documents to save before tax season rolls around.

06/11/2026

Thinking about starting a business? One of the first steps is choosing the right business structure.

Your structure can affect how you file taxes, what you owe, and how your business is managed. Common options include:
• Sole proprietorship
• Partnership
• C corporation
• S corporation
• Limited liability company

Future business owners should also choose a tax year, apply for an EIN if needed, make sure employee forms are completed, understand applicable taxes, and check state-specific requirements.

Starting strong on the front end can save a lot of time, confusion, and cleanup later.

06/09/2026

That side hustle, craft business, or weekend project might be more than just a hobby.

When it comes to taxes, there’s an important distinction between a hobby and a business. Generally, businesses are operated with the intent to make a profit, while hobbies are pursued primarily for recreation or personal enjoyment.

Some questions to consider:
• Are you trying to make a profit?
• Do you keep business records and track income and expenses?
• Do you depend on the income?
• Have you changed operations to improve profitability?
• Do you run the activity like a business?

No single factor determines the answer, but understanding the difference can help you stay compliant and avoid surprises at tax time. And remember, income earned through payment apps, online marketplaces, or digital assets is generally reportable, whether it's from a hobby or a business.

05/29/2026

Homeowners, this is a good time to review potential tax benefits tied to your home.

If you itemize, you may be able to deduct certain homeownership costs, including:
• State and local real estate taxes, subject to limits
• Home mortgage interest, within allowed limits

Not everything is deductible, though. Homeowners generally cannot deduct costs like insurance, utilities, HOA fees, internet, most closing costs, or routine home repairs.

Some taxpayers may also qualify for the Mortgage Interest Credit, and ministers or members of the uniformed services with a nontaxable housing allowance may still be able to deduct real estate taxes and mortgage interest. If you’re unsure what applies to your situation, it’s worth reviewing before tax season!