Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the more frequent questions we hear as well as representative categories of questions. With over 60 years combined experience as Criminal and Civil Tax Attorneys we have seen just about everything. Please look here first but definitely reach out to us for more information.
I need tax advice; how do I start and how much will it cost?
Can I discharge taxes in bankruptcy?
If I have a tax collection problem, what are my options?
If I have not filed tax returns in ten years and I owe a lot of income tax to IRS and to the state, can you help me?
Yes. One of, or a combination of, the above options may work for you. In addition, you may need our assistance in dealing with IRS, or “keeping IRS at bay” until such time as you can implement the proper option and strategy. Again, a full review is usually necessary.
I owe about $30,000 and IRS has been sending me notices; are they going to try to put me in jail?
My paycheck just got levied. What can I do?
My company owes a lot of sales tax. What can I do?
Again, options may include payment plans, offers in compromise, bankruptcy, etc.
I live in Wisconsin and owe federal and state taxes; can you help me from Arizona?
Yes. We can evaluate the case, advise as to potential options and solutions, and communicate by fax, phone, mail, and Federal Express mail. In order for IRS personnel to speak with us, or for us to obtain information, a power of attorney is required.
How can I protect my property from IRS seizure?
Can I start a savings account in an offshore bank?
You can have a savings account offshore, but you are still required to pay taxes on the interest earned. Likewise, generally speaking, income cannot be earned in the U.S. and sent offshore to avoid taxes.
I own my own business and I was just contacted by an IRS Special Agent. What do I do now?
Consult with legal counsel immediately. Special Agents are criminal, not civil, investigators; thus, the case is criminal, not civil, and you need to know your rights and your options.
If I am in an audit and I end up owing taxes, is there a way to stop interest?
In anticipation of owing and paying IRS a sum of money, you can send money to IRS as either a “payment” or a “cash bond deposit.” A cash bond deposit stops interest and can be returned to you at your request, any time before IRS is entitled to assess the tax. The amount will be returned without interest.
If I am a mere witness in a criminal investigation, what should I do? What if I am the target?
In either case, first, remain silent (“Silence is golden”) and obtain competent, experienced counsel immediately. If you waive your rights and speak with the agent, you cannot later “un-ring the bell.” The information will be used against you.
Am I protected against an IRS lien by my state homestead exemption, for example, the Arizona $100,000 exemption?
No, an IRS lien trumps the homestead exemption. The homestead exemption protects against other creditors, but in order to BEAT IRS℠ to your homestead equity, bankruptcy would have to be filed before IRS files a tax lien. This is an example of how critical timing can be.
I owe about $300,000 and IRS has been sending me notices; are they going to try to put me in jail?
I owe about $3,000,000 and IRS has been sending me notices; are they going to try to put me in jail?