New Year's Rally in Reply to Positive Economic News

NOTE: Please be sure to purchase or rent the copy with the Exclusive Chapter (picture shown above).

If you're using Kindle or Audio, email us at: info@mccarthyfinancialgroup.com for a copy of the epilogue. 

Is an Offer in Compromise Too Good to be True?

An Offer in Compromise is an agreement between a taxpayer and the IRS that settles a tax debt for less than the total amount owed; this is a genuine service offered by the IRS. The problem arises when "OIC mills" start promising things they can't do.

These OIC mills urge people to hire their company to file an OIC application, even though the taxpayer won't qualify. They often charge significant fees and waste your time and money.

Taxpayers who qualify for an OIC can get the same deal working directly with the IRS without the extra fees. Before hiring a company to file an OIC on your behalf, check the IRS website to see if you pre-qualify for an OIC. There are also resources on the site to help you understand the process.⁸

_{* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.}

Create a Morning Routine That You Love

The first hour of your morning can dictate your productivity for the rest of the day, so it's worth investing in a morning routine you love. How do some of the most successful people spend the first few hours of their day? Here are a few tips:

• Don't check your email for the first hour of your workday.
  
• Spend time thinking about things you're grateful for; this will help set a positive tone for your day.
  
• Mark Twain famously said that if you eat a live frog first thing in the morning, you've got it behind you for the rest of your day. Consider doing your most challenging work first thing in the morning.
  
• Do some light movement, such as going for a walk, stretching, or yoga.

What are some of your favorite morning rituals?

_{Tip adapted from Fast Company⁹}

Skinny Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Servings: 6

Time: 40 mins

Less fat AND less calories. Except taste and flavor is not compromised AT ALL! So cheesy, comforting and irresistible! 

Ingredients: 

• 3 cups cavatappi pasta
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup half and half, or more, as needed
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions. Within the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add cauliflower; drain well.
3. Melt butter in a 9-inch oven-proof skillet over medium high heat. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in half and half, and cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in cream cheese, Dijon and garlic powder until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in 1 cup cheese until melted, about 1-2 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more half and half as needed; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Stir in pasta and cauliflower; gently toss to combine. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. 
6. Place into oven and bake until bubbly, about 12-15 minutes. 
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chives, if desired.





Footnotes and Sources

^{1. The Wall Street Journal, January 6, 2023}

^{2. The Wall Street Journal, January 6, 2023}

^{3. The Wall Street Journal, January 6, 2023}

^{4. CNBC, January 5, 2023}

^{5. The Wall Street Journal, January 5, 2023}

^{6. The Wall Street Journal, January 6, 2023}

^{7. howardcm.com, January 6, 2022} 

^{8. IRS.gov, July 7, 2022}

^{9. Fast Company, August 22, 2012}

^{Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.}

^{The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to revision without notice.}

^{This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG is not affiliated with the named representative, financial professional, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker-Dealer, nor state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and they should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.}

^{Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.}