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Tax Talk Thursday Episodes

March 13, 2025

Self-Employment Tax Got You Stressed? Learn Exactly What It Is and Ho…

Are you self-employed and feeling the pressure of self-employment tax? Trust me, you’re not alone! This episode dives headfirst into the nitty-gritty of self-employment tax—what it is, how it works, and most importantly, how ...

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March 6, 2025

Are you ready for the IRS when earning extra income?

Are you diving into the gig economy, raking in some extra dough from side gigs, freelance work, or selling stuff online? Well, buckle up, because we’re tackling the crucial topic of tax obligations that come with that newfoun...

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Feb. 20, 2025

Lost a loved one and facing tax questions? Here’s everything you shou…

Got a heavy heart and a mountain of tax paperwork? You're not alone, my friend. Losing a loved one is tough enough, but then there's the challenge of navigating their tax affairs—yikes! In this episode, we dive into the nitty...

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Feb. 6, 2025

Got a tax notice? Now what?

Ever cracked open your mailbox to find an IRS envelope and felt your stomach drop like it’s auditioning for a horror movie? Yeah, we’ve all been there! Today, we’re diving into the wild world of tax notices, breaking down why...

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Jan. 30, 2025

Desperate for tax relief? Why are some solutions worse than the probl…

Are you feeling overwhelmed by tax debt and unsure who to trust for help? This episode dives deep into the risks of falling for too-good-to-be-true tax relief schemes that can actually worsen your situation. Host Ralph Estep ...

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Jan. 23, 2025

Is Your Old Filing Status Stealing Your Tax Refund?

Are you potentially leaving thousands of dollars on the table due to a simple checkbox on your tax return? Discover how a single oversight can cost you dearly, as Ralph Estep Jr. shares the gripping story of Michelle, a widow...

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Jan. 21, 2025

Tax Identity Theft: Is Someone Filing Returns in Your Name?

Tax identity theft can be a devastating blow to your finances, leaving you feeling violated and overwhelmed. Today, we dive deep into this pressing issue, sharing practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your fami...

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Jan. 16, 2025

Do I have to pay taxes when I sell my home?

Are you worried about a hefty tax bill after selling your home? Ralph Estep Jr. addresses this common concern by sharing the inspiring story of his client, Patrick, who transitioned from panic to peace upon discovering the tr...

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Jan. 9, 2025

How do I handle my taxes when I live in one state and work in another?

Feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of state taxes when living in one state and working in another? You’re not alone, and this episode dives deep into the nuances of navigating multi-state taxation. Ralph Estep addresses ...

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Jan. 2, 2025

What are 12 sources of non-taxable income?

Are you tired of watching your hard-earned money vanish into taxes? Discover how you can retain more of your income legally by exploring 12 sources of non-taxable income that the IRS can't touch. Ralph Estep Jr. dives into th...

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Dec. 26, 2024

How do I prepare for handling my 2024 tax preparation?

Feeling overwhelmed about the upcoming tax season? You’re not alone, as many small business owners, like Noah from Oregon, share the same anxiety about preparing their taxes correctly. This podcast dives into practical strate...

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Dec. 19, 2024

What are some new tax issues facing us in 2025?

Has the thought of 2025 tax changes kept you up at night? Ralph Estep Jr. addresses the looming expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and its potential impact on your financial future. He shares the story of David, a small ...

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Dec. 12, 2024

What are 11 tax related new years resolutions I should adopt?

Are you grappling with the financial strain of tax season, caught between your obligations to pay taxes and your commitment to generous giving? Ralph shares powerful insights by revealing 11 biblical tax resolutions that help...

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Dec. 5, 2024

What are 9 retirement expenses which I may not have considered?

Are you prepared for the unexpected costs that can arise during retirement? Many retirees find themselves blindsided by expenses they never planned for, which can significantly derail their financial plans. This episode dives...

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Nov. 28, 2024

Should I file a tax return even though I’m not required to file?

Choosing not to file a tax return, even when you're not required to, can cost you thousands of dollars in missed opportunities, including valuable tax credits and financial documentation. Ralph dives into the common concerns ...

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Nov. 21, 2024

What are 5 common RMD mistakes to avoid?

Are you worried about making costly mistakes with your required minimum distributions (RMDs)? This podcast episode dives into five devastating RMD mistakes that could lead to thousands of dollars in penalties, highlighting th...

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Nov. 14, 2024

What is an EIN and why would I need one?

Are you unsure whether you need an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for your small business? Ralph addresses this common confusion, particularly for those starting out as sole proprietors. He explains that while having an...

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Nov. 7, 2024

What are the differences between the two types of 529 plans?

Are you feeling overwhelmed about how to finance your child's college education? Ralph breaks down the two types of 529 plans—traditional college savings plans and prepaid tuition plans—providing clarity on how each can effec...

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Oct. 31, 2024

Why is a wealth tax such a terrible idea?

Are you concerned about the potential impact of a wealth tax on your savings and financial future? Ralph dives deep into the complexities of this contentious issue, explaining how a wealth tax could adversely affect not just ...

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Oct. 24, 2024

Is it true that I can lose my passport if I don’t pay my taxes?

Are you worried about losing your passport due to unpaid taxes? This episode dives into the serious concern many face when financial obligations clash with their travel dreams. Host Ralph Estep Jr. addresses a listener's ques...

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Oct. 17, 2024

What is the rule of 55 and how can I use it to reduce my taxes?

Are you feeling trapped in your job and dreaming of an early retirement? The rule of 55 might just be your ticket to accessing your 401(k) funds without penalties before reaching 59 and a half. Ralph dives deep into this litt...

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Oct. 10, 2024

Why states with no income tax aren’t as affordable as they may seem?

Are you considering a move to a no-income-tax state, dreaming it will solve all your financial problems? This episode reveals why these states might not be the financial paradise you envision. Host Ralph Estep Jr. shares the ...

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Oct. 3, 2024

What is the tax impact of getting a lump sum versus routine payout of…

In today's episode of the Ask Ralph podcast, we delve into the vital decision of choosing between a lump sum and annual retirement payouts, a choice that can significantly impact your financial future. Ralph Estep Jr unpacks ...

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Sept. 26, 2024

What steps can I take to avoid a tax time bomb in retirement?

Ever wondered if your retirement savings are hiding a potential tax time bomb? In this episode of The Ask Ralph Show , Ralph Estep Jr. breaks down strategies to help you avoid unexpected tax surprises in retirement. Discover ...

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