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).

What happens when the IRS acts as prosecutor, jury, and judge—all at once? That’s the question at the heart of the United States v. Sagoo case (2025), a landmark court decision that could reshape how international tax penalties are assessed.

The year’s winding down — but before you celebrate, make sure your fourth-quarter estimated tax strategy is solid. Planning now can help you avoid penalties, reduce surprises in April, and keep more of your hard-earned money where it belongs. Know Your Final Payment Deadline The last estimated tax payment for 2025 is due January 15, 2026. You can pay using EFTPS, IRS Direct Pay, or your state’s online payment system (like CA WebPay for California residents). If you file your