RATCLIFF CPA & CONSULTANTS

February 2026 Newsletter

Show Your Finances Some Love This Tax Season

February is often associated with relationships, and it is the perfect time to strengthen one of the most important relationships you have — the one with your finances. As tax season reaches its busiest period, Ratcliff CPA & Consultants is here to help individuals and business owners stay organized, confident, and prepared.

Early filing not only helps prevent delays, but it also allows more time for strategic planning opportunities that can positively impact your financial future.

Important Tax Filing Deadlines Approaching

Individual Tax Returns
The deadline to file 2025 individual tax returns is April 15, 2026. Filing early helps reduce identity theft risks and allows time to resolve missing documentation or questions.

Business Filing Deadlines

S-Corporations and Partnerships: March 16, 2026
Corporate Tax Returns: April 15, 2026
First Quarter Estimated Tax Payments: April 15, 2026

If you recently started a business or changed your business structure, our team can help confirm which deadlines apply to you.

Getting Organized Can Increase Your Refund Opportunities

Accurate documentation allows us to fully evaluate available deductions and credits. Before submitting your tax information, please gather:

• W-2 Income Statements
• 1099 Forms and Additional Income Records
• Investment and Brokerage Statements
• Retirement Distribution Forms
• Mortgage Interest and Property Tax Documents
• Education and Childcare Expense Records
• Cryptocurrency Transaction Summaries

Providing complete records helps reduce preparation time and ensures nothing is overlooked.

Credits and Deductions Worth Reviewing

Many taxpayers miss valuable savings opportunities each year. Depending on eligibility, you may qualify for:

• Child Tax Credit
• Earned Income Credit
• Education Tax Credits
• Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credits
• Home Office Deduction for Qualified Self-Employed Individuals
• Business Expense Deductions

Our review process focuses on identifying opportunities that support both short-term savings and long-term tax efficiency.

Business Owners: Strong Records Build Strong Businesses

Maintaining organized records does more than simplify tax filing. It helps protect your business and supports confident financial decision-making throughout the year.

We recommend maintaining:

• Separate business banking and credit accounts
• Digital copies of receipts and supporting documentation
• Accurate mileage and vehicle usage logs
• Proper payroll and contractor classification documentation

Ratcliff CPA & Consultants provides bookkeeping and payroll solutions designed to help business owners remain compliant while focusing on growth.

February Is a Smart Time to Review Your 2026 Financial Goals

Tax season is not only about filing returns. It is also an opportunity to evaluate financial progress and adjust future strategies. Consider reviewing:

• Payroll withholding adjustments
• Retirement contribution planning
• Business entity structure evaluations
• Cash flow and budgeting strategies
• Upcoming major purchases or investment planning

Proactive planning often leads to improved tax outcomes and greater financial stability throughout the year.

Increased Tax Scam Activity During Filing Season

Tax scams tend to increase during peak filing months. Please remember:

The IRS does not request payment through phone calls, text messages, or social media platforms.
Never share personal or financial information with unknown or unverified contacts.
Always verify tax-related communications before responding.

If you receive suspicious correspondence, our office can help you determine appropriate next steps.

Our Commitment to You

Ratcliff CPA & Consultants is dedicated to providing knowledgeable, personalized, and reliable tax and financial guidance. We appreciate the trust our clients place in our firm and remain committed to helping you make informed financial decisions year-round.

Contact Our Office

Ratcliff CPA & Consultants
Tax Preparation
Accounting and Bookkeeping
Payroll Services
Business Advisory

Appointments are filling quickly during tax season. We encourage clients to schedule early to secure preferred appointment times.

Client Referral Appreciation

Referrals remain one of the greatest compliments our firm receives. We sincerely appreciate your continued confidence and recommendations to friends, family, and business colleagues.