8 Quirky Tax Questions (and How Accountants Are Answering Them)

Tax season is here, and with it comes a wave of stress, urgency, and—often—completely unexpected questions. Every year, tax preparers brace for the storm of client inquiries, ranging from routine clarifications to downright puzzling myths. But this year, a combination of misinformation, economic uncertainty, and changes at the IRS has brought an unusual set of concerns into the spotlight.

While some questions may seem outlandish to seasoned tax professionals, they point to a larger issue of confusion and anxiety among taxpayers. We've compiled a list of some of the most unusual, pressing, and downright bizarre questions clients are asking this tax season—and how tax professionals are tackling them.

The Wildest Tax Questions This Season

1. "Will the IRS even process my refund this year?"

With recent headlines about IRS budget cuts and staffing shortages, clients are understandably concerned about the state of the agency. Some wonder if their refunds will be delayed or if processing times will stretch out indefinitely.

According to Morris Armstrong, an Enrolled Agent at Armstrong Financial Strategies, these fears are common. He explained that clients often phrase their concerns dramatically—"Will they even notice if I don't file?" or "What if Elon Musk is reading my tax information?"—highlighting the underlying anxiety about federal resources and privacy.

What Tax Preparers Are Saying: While it's true the IRS faces challenges, it's still operating and processing refunds as usual. Encouraging clients to file early and ensure their information is accurate can help speed up the process.

2. "Will tax day be canceled this year?"

Some taxpayers have asked whether unprecedented events, such as reported IRS layoffs or political debates, might result in tax day being postponed—or canceled altogether. Others seem to think a lack of IRS staffing could mean they're off the hook this year.

Manasa Nadig, an EA and owner at MN Tax and Business Services, reports addressing these concerns head-on, reassuring clients that tax day remains firmly set unless otherwise notified. "It's business as usual," she says, reminding taxpayers that laws and deadlines haven’t changed.

What This Suggests: Many individuals confuse media headlines with official policy changes. Clear, proactive communication can dispel these rumors.

3. "Can I deduct my gym membership or streaming subscriptions?"

Here's a fun one. John Dundon, president of Taxpayer Advocacy Services, shared that one client asked if their gym membership could be written off as a business expense, arguing that staying healthy keeps their work performance up. Another client hoped to deduct streaming subscriptions, citing stress relief from a demanding job.

The Reality: Unless a direct and legitimate business purpose applies—such as a fitness coach using a gym as part of their practice—expenses like these don’t qualify.

Takeaway: Tax professionals often have to dispel creative deduction ideas while tactfully educating clients about the boundaries of legitimate tax benefits.

4. "Can I classify my wedding as a business expense?"

A client once asked if their wedding could be written off because they networked with clients there. While it’s creative thinking, the IRS isn’t likely to approve this one. Tax professionals explain that only expenses with a clear business connection—validated with documentation—could even remotely qualify.

Lesson for Clients: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

5. "What do I actually need to give you this year?"

Seasoned taxpayers may assume they know what documents to hand over, but this can lead to missed deductions or overpayment. Jean-Luc Bourdon, a CPA, reminds clients that every year brings changes to tax rules, and thorough documentation is vital.

Pro Tip from the Pros: Preparers suggest keeping digital and physical shoeboxes of receipts, categorized by expense type. That way, nothing gets missed.

6. "I saw a TikTok where someone avoided all their taxes. Can I do that too?"

Social media is now playing a surprising role in shaping tax conversations. Clients often come armed with "advice" found online, including dubious financial strategies from so-called "accounting influencers." Some of the most prevalent myths include:

• Misclassifying occupations (e.g., labeling oneself as a "real estate professional" to claim rental property advantages).
• Misusing Charitable Remainder Trusts to inflate deductions.

Miklos Ringbauer, CPA, emphasizes the dangers of these misconceptions, explaining that they rarely hold up during audits and can lead to penalties.

What Tax Preparers Want You to Know: Influencers may oversimplify complex tax strategies. Always consult a qualified professional before trying anything risky.

Misinformation and Confusion Reign Supreme

Tax season is stressful for many reasons, but misinformation remains one of the biggest hurdles for tax professionals. With headlines highlighting IRS budget cuts, social media perpetuating myths, and economic uncertainty clouding taxpayers' understanding, it's no wonder clients are asking plenty of unusual questions.

7. "Should I delay filing until the IRS is abolished?"

Though dramatic, questions like these are cropping up across the country. Encouragingly, professionals like Dundon assure clients that filing on time is always the safest choice—and that refunds are worth claiming promptly instead of waiting for speculative, unlikely events.

8. "Is Washington safe enough for direct deposit?"

Political headlines have also made clients uneasy about providing bank details for direct deposit. While understandable, CPAs like Andrew Newman explain that direct deposit remains one of the fastest, safest ways to receive refunds.

Key Insight: Tax professionals frequently serve as financial therapists during tax season, offering reassurance to nervous or misinformed clients.

Top Takeaways for Taxpayers

For taxpayers and small business owners feeling overwhelmed this season, here's some advice:

• Work with a professional to cut through the clutter of misinformation.
• Be prepared. Review and gather all required tax documents early.
• Fact-check claims from social media or unverified "influencers."
• Don’t wait to file. Even amid uncertainty, late filing often incurs penalties.

Where to Turn for Help

Tax season can feel overwhelming, but a trusted tax preparer can help you separate fact from fiction, make the process smoother, and ensure you maximize your deductions.

At SD Mayer & Associates, we specialize in helping individuals and businesses make sense of complex financial matters with clear, real-world solutions. Our experienced team is ready to address any question—no matter how odd—so you can file with confidence.

If you're ready to enjoy a stress-free tax season, contact us today and get the support you need!