[Editor's Note: This article was originally published in February 2014 but has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.]

How can I use my W-4 form to increase my paycheck or avoid tax debt?

If your tax refund was lower than expected (or you ended up owing the IRS) you may not be withholding the right amount of federal tax from your paycheck. On the other hand, if your refund was unusually large, you could be having too much tax withheld, reducing your take-home pay throughout the year.

{Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in August 2013 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.}

Some taxpayers might feel that they don't need to keep their income tax documents unless they have particularly complex tax situations. The reality is that all taxpayers should keep their essential tax documents on file. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to keep your records for several years, in case of an audit or to back up a claim.

At any given time, about 1% of US workers are probably experiencing a wage garnishment. Wage garnishment can feel like a heavy weight on your shoulders, especially if you're trying to regain financial stability. Many people wonder if switching jobs will put an end to their wage garnishment or if there are other ways to stop it. Let’s break it down into simple terms so you can understand your options and take action.

As the calendar winds down and the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect time to reflect on your financial health. Tax planning is a vital part of securing your financial future, and strategic tax planning can unlock significant benefits. Whether you're an individual taxpayer or a business owner, taking the right steps now can lead to substantial savings and peace of mind.

How do I get innocent spouse relief from the IRS?

To get innocent spouse relief, you must file IRS Form 8857 and show that a joint tax return understated taxes due to your spouse’s errors, that you did not know or have reason to know about them, and that it would be unfair to hold you responsible. Requests generally must be filed within two years of the IRS’s first collection attempt.

If you’re facing a visit or call from an IRS Revenue Officer, you might feel a mix of confusion and stress. After all, most of us never expect to deal directly with the IRS, let alone with one of their Revenue Officers. But it can happen to anyone, especially if you have overdue tax debts, haven’t filed tax returns, or are dealing with payroll tax issues. So, let’s walk through some tips to help you manage this situation calmly and effectively.