As more financial and government services move online, having quick, secure access to your tax information has never been more important. The IRS Online Account  gives individuals a centralized, convenient way to review tax balances, access documents, make payments, and receive IRS notices directly—without waiting on hold or mailing forms. Whether you file your taxes with our firm or prepare them yourself, creating an IRS Online Account can save you time, reduce delays, and h

At EC Barrett, LLC, we believe estate and tax planning should be clear, accessible, and actionable. With the IRS releasing its 2025 updates, now is the perfect time to review how gift tax rules may affect your financial strategy.        Key 2025 Gift Tax Updates   - Annual Exclusion: You can now give up to $19,000 per recipient in 2025 without triggering a filing requirement (up from $18,000 in 2024).   - Lifetime Exemption: The unified estate and gift tax exemption is $13.99

As 2025 draws to a close, it may be tempting to put off thinking about taxes until the new year. But the IRS is encouraging taxpayers to start preparing now for the 2026 tax season—and for good reason. The earlier you get organized, the more control you’ll have over your filing process, potential refunds, and peace of mind. Early preparation doesn’t just save time; it can also save money and help prevent costly mistakes. This year’s tax season is shaping up to be especially u