Getting a big tax refund isn’t a win—it’s a sign you gave the IRS an interest-free loan all year. Learn why refunds drain your cash flow and how smarter withholding keeps more money in your pocket.

If you’ve ever received money from abroad — whether it’s from freelance work, consulting, or royalties — the IRS wants to know. U.S. taxpayers may need to report those payments using Form 1099 (for U.S. payees) or Form 1042-S (for foreign payees).

When Congress fails to pass a budget or temporary funding bill, the federal government enters what’s known as a shutdown.