TaxesSeptember 1, 2026· 8 min read
The four phases of an ESPP, and what each one means
An employee stock purchase plan is taxed at sale, not at purchase. A New York CPA on the two clocks, and the basis adjustment brokers leave out.
12+
Years Serving NYC
50
States Covered
5★
Rated on Yelp
150,000+
Returns Filed
Open
Evenings & Weekends
Section 01
Understanding USCIS Applications and Tax Returns
Applications for USCIS can be daunting. Many taxpayers reach out to me for help with their documents or petitions for various residency statuses. For many USCIS forms, such as Form I-751, you must file your tax returns. However, taxpayers often delay filing, which can lead to having multiple years’ worth of overdue taxes right before a USCIS appointment or interview.
What Makes a Tax Return Valid for USCIS?
If you haven’t filed your tax return yet, prepare and send the overdue returns with delivery confirmation. Bring a printout of the filed return to your USCIS interview along with a letter from your CPA that confirms the tax return has been prepared. Government agencies do not automatically share information or cross-check files. Each agency has its own separate database, and these databases do not connect with one another. By presenting your tax return, USPS delivery confirmation, and a CPA letter, you show your effort to address your delinquent tax status before the interview.
Processing Time for Tax Returns
Typically, the IRS needs several weeks to process a return. If the IRS identifies issues, it might take even longer. For example, if you have a USCIS interview on Monday and you contact your accountant the previous Thursday, the return might not be fully processed in time. Therefore, bring evidence of tax compliance, such as a copy of the return and delivery tracking information, to your interview.
Filing Status and Alternatives
You should file as married filing jointly if applicable. Alternatively, schedule an appointment at your local IRS office to deliver your returns in person. Having the IRS stamp your returns can provide reassurance and is usually accepted as proof of a “filed” return.
Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. You can contact us via email, phone, or by filling out the contact form, and we’ll get back to you promptly.
No cost to start
Questions about your specific situation?
Fifteen minutes with a CPA who handles this every week. We will walk you through your options — no sales pitch, no obligation.
Client reviews
What our clients say
“George has prepared and maintained the corporate accounting and provided consultant services for my company for a number of years. He has always done an outstanding, professional and courteous job. I feel that his rates are very fair and he provides a great value for the cost.”
“Excellent service and very professional. George and his team have been handling my business taxes for years and I couldn't be happier with the results. They are always available to answer questions and provide expert advice.”
“I've been working with Dimov CPA for both personal and business taxes. Their attention to detail and knowledge of tax law has saved me thousands. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a reliable CPA in NYC.”
Keep reading
More insights selected for you
TaxesAugust 21, 2026· 9 min read
Tax deductions for freelance models
Model tax write offs explained by a New York CPA. The wardrobe rule, the grooming rule, foreign shoot income, and a worked Schedule C example.
Tax Strategy & PlanningSeptember 24, 2026· 9 min read
Restricted stock award tax treatment
RSA taxation explained by a New York CPA. Restricted stock units vs restricted stock awards, withholding at vest, sell to cover, forfeiture, and the QSBS clock.
Ready when you are
Let's talk about the next step
A CPA will review your situation and give you a straight answer. No commitment, no jargon.
