Charissa H. Cotten, CPA, PA

05/28/2026

Saving for retirement is something we should all start earlier but it can be difficult sometimes. Here are some tips. My philosophy is start somewhere...but start.

Ready to call it quits? From timing Social Security to planning, here are nine pieces of Dave Ramsey's advice for a secure retirement.

05/22/2026

Best advice I know...

05/19/2026

Great info! Most people I speak to think the Chamber is government funded. The SRC Chamber is a valuable resource for businesses and residents. The cost to join is small and the rewards are worth it when you engage or need information.

People often ask why the Chamber hosts fundraisers and seeks sponsorships. The answer is simple — as a nonprofit organization, these efforts allow us to continue supporting and growing our local business community.

The Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce has proudly served our community since 1937. For decades, we have worked to support local businesses, encourage economic growth, promote tourism, and strengthen connections throughout Santa Rosa County. Did you also know that we only have TWO employees? That is correct! 2!

As a nonprofit organization, the Chamber does not receive government funding. Every event, program, networking opportunity, community initiative, and business resource we provide is made possible through memberships, sponsorships, donations, and fundraising efforts.

Fundraisers like Casino Night, the Freedom Car & Bike Show, golf tournaments, and other Chamber events help us cover operational costs, maintain and improve our facilities, support tourism and economic development efforts, promote local businesses, and continue offering programs that benefit our community.

These events also help support our Community Foundation, which allows us to give back through scholarships, local projects, and community support initiatives.

Sponsorships are more than just advertising — they are investments in the growth and success of Santa Rosa County. Businesses that sponsor Chamber events are helping create opportunities for networking, business visibility, community engagement, and long-term economic growth throughout our area.

Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, raffle item donated, and event attended helps us continue our mission of supporting local businesses and strengthening our community. We truly could not do it without the support of our members, sponsors, and community partners.

If you or your business is interested in joining our Chamber, let us know! We would love to show you what we have to offer!

Stop by and see us at 4315 Avalon Blvd., in Milton or check out our website srcchamber.com for more info!

05/08/2026

If you get a notice from the IRS requesting your bank information to post your refund, make sure it is legitimate. Follow safe ways to respond.

At BankIowa, your financial security is our top priority. This tax season, we want to alert you to a sophisticated new scam targeting taxpayers through a spoofed version of a legitimate document: IRS Notice

04/15/2026

So, if you have to paper file for some reason today, be sure to get a manual postmark or better yet, send your return certified or registered mail. The post office does not guarantee a postmark date on regular mail just dropped off- be sure to get that postmark for today!

03/04/2026

When you decide to manage your work life instead of allowing it to manage you, beautiful things happen...even during tax season. I encourage you to take a breath, a quiet moment, and enjoy your day. You can still get your work done. Since making changes in my work life, I have had the most productive and satisfying tax season that I have had in many years. Remember at the end of the day, you need to not just bring home a paycheck or climb a ladder, you need to also be healthy and present in other areas of your life. Here's to success and contentment!

02/17/2026

If you are expecting a refund, we will need bank deposit info this year due to new IRS rules.

If you usually receive a tax refund by paper check, you might also be experiencing some confusion about how you will receive your refund this filing season.

02/15/2026

2026 tax refund estimated payment schedule for your 2025 tax return.

01/10/2026

We are back to our family firm for 2026. I had surgery and recovery over the holidays and we are just now beginning to get back in the swing of things. For the new year my niece, Marcia, joins us part-time. She has years of experience and a master's degree in accounting. My niece, Jessica, will continue as a part-time admin assistant and my daughter, Amber, will be working much reduced hours because she is teaching at Jay Elementary.

Clients, look for your annual engagement letter and tax letter to arrive within the next few weeks via email or mail. We are excited to see you this tax season. Currently, we are not accepting new clients but we may later in the year. Happy New Year!

01/10/2026

Taxpayers may begin filing their 2025 tax returns on Monday, Jan. 26, per the IRS. April 15th is the deadline to file or request an extension.

This tax season there is a new form, Schedule 1-A, used to claim new tax deductions- limiting taxes on tips, overtime, interest on new car loans for U. S. made vehicles, and adding extra deductions for Social Security recipients.

Also, the IRS Free File program is available for taxpayers who have an adjusted gross income of $84,000 or less. You can find that program on the IRS website.