About Tax Calc Tool

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Michael Harrison

Independent Tax Researcher
Former IRS Revenue Agent

Location: Austin, Texas

Experience: 12+ years

CPA License: 2008

Experience

2020 - Present
Independent Tax Researcher
Tax Calc Tool, Austin, TX
Building free tax calculators and writing guides to help taxpayers navigate the code without fear. Tested every calculator against IRS worksheets.
2008 - 2020
IRS Revenue Agent
Internal Revenue Service, Austin, TX
Examined 800+ individual and small business returns annually. Specialized in Schedule C audits, self-employment tax compliance, and deduction verification.
2006 - 2008
Tax Associate
Regional CPA Firm, Dallas, TX
Prepared individual and business returns. Focused on small business clients and quarterly estimated tax planning.

Expertise

Federal Income Tax

Brackets, deductions, credits, AMT planning

Self-Employment Tax

Schedule C, SE tax, quarterly payments

State Tax Planning

Multi-state filing, residency issues

Small Business Tax

Entity selection, deductions, compliance

Education & Certifications

  • ✓ B.S. Accounting, University of Texas at Austin, 2006
  • ✓ Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Texas State Board, 2008
  • ✓ IRS Enrolled Agent (EA) preparation, 2010

Why I Created This Site

After 12 years inside the IRS, I saw the same pattern over and over: regular people terrified of the tax code, overpaying because they didn't understand deductions, or getting hit with penalties because they missed quarterly payments. The tax code is complex, but it shouldn't be scary.

I left the IRS in 2020 to build tools that make taxes transparent. Every calculator on this site is tested against official IRS worksheets. Every article is written from the perspective of someone who's sat on both sides of the desk.

I live in Austin, Texas — a state with no income tax, which gives me a unique perspective on federal vs state tax planning. When I'm not reading tax court cases for fun, you'll find me smoking brisket, kayaking Lady Bird Lake, or arguing about Longhorns football.

Independence & Transparency

Important: Tax Calc Tool is an independent educational resource. I do not represent the IRS, any state tax agency, or any tax preparation company. I do not sell tax preparation services, accounting services, or insurance products.

This site is supported by advertising and affiliate partnerships. I only recommend tools and services I have personally tested or researched. All opinions are my own.

The calculators and articles on this site are for educational purposes only. They do not constitute tax advice. For your specific tax situation, please consult a qualified tax professional.