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Joseph M. Arndt III - Tax Controversy Attorney

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Hiring a Tax Attorney? Questions to Consider

Hiring a Tax Attorney? Questions to Consider

Previously, we noted that someday you may need to hire a tax attorney. When that day comes, you will want a tax attorney with the skills and experience to help you deal successfully with your specific IRS problem. How will you know if this is the right tax attorney for you? Here are a few questions you can ask.

Does Your Tax Attorney have Proper IRS Credentials?

Is this tax lawyer an IRS Licensed Practitioner? Are they authorized to represent you in IRS tax matters like audits, payment/collection issues, and appeals? Check the official IRS Directory of properly credentialed tax lawyers and other tax professionals in your area.

Also, look for professional societies that your tax lawyer belongs to. Many professional societies, such as the American Society of IRS Problem Solvers, have rigorous ethical standards and ongoing educational requirements for their tax lawyers.

How Much Experience does Your Tax Attorney Have?

How many years has this tax lawyer been in practice? What kind of experience do they have dealing with YOUR specific tax problem? How successfully has this tax lawyer represented clients with income tax problems like yours?

Does Your Tax Attorney Concentrate on Tax Law?

Professional focus should be a major consideration in selecting a tax lawyer.  There is a difference between a Tax Attorney, and a lawyer who does tax law in addition to family law, real estate law, etc. Whatever your IRS tax problem, hire a lawyer who:

  • Works in income tax law consistently
  • Negotiates with the IRS on a regular basis, and
  • Has a firm command of the tax code, tax law changes, loopholes, and legal tools and remedies.

Contact a Tax Attorney at IRS Away Today

IRS Away is here to answer questions like these, and others. We have the credentials, the experience, and the track record of success to handle IRS tax problems like yours, AND give you peace of mind! If you live in or around Columbia SC and are experiencing income tax problems, help is nearby. Contact tax lawyer Joseph M. Arndt III at (803) 771-4037 for a free consultation.

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Tax Problems – An IRS Top 10 (Part 2)

Tax Problems – An IRS Top 10 (Part 2)

In our last post we began to look at common tax problems, from a Forbes Magazine article called “The Top 10 Most Litigated Tax Issues.” These tax problems – and the process of dealing with them – can be very high-stakes situations that, as we say, can “destroy the life and business you have built because you do not know how to defend yourself.” And these are situations where you definitely do NOT want to stand alone. Let’s continue with the list of…

Common IRS Tax Problems

Tax Problem 5: Accuracy-Related Penalties

These are IRS penalties that result from the underpayment of taxes. In some cases, taxpayers have successfully (and some unsuccessfully) argued that the tax preparer was at fault.

Tax Problem 4: Trade or Business Expenses

Many aspects to this one, most involving the taxpayer’s inability to justify deductions. Failure to properly separate business and personal expenses. Failure to produce receipts. Improper home office expense deductions, etc.

Tax Problem 3: Summons Enforcements

The IRS has the right to examine any records and other documentation related to a civil or criminal tax case. If you refuse to cooperate, the IRS may turn to your employer or your bank, which can be inconvenient and embarrassing.

Tax Problem 2: Gross Income

As in, failing to fully report of gross income. Income from multiple sources, cancellation of debts, beneficial court settlements, inheritances, etc.

Tax Problem 1: Appeals from Collection Due Process Hearings

Less of a problem than a possible remedy. If you have been through due process with the IRS, and have a judgment against you, this is your opportunity to appeal the ruling and request an independent review.

One thing you might take away from this list (parts 1 and 2) is the sheer number of ways you could find yourself in the midst of an IRS problem. The IRS has a big toolbox and tremendous discretion in dealing with your tax problems. Shouldn’t you ALSO have tools and allies at your side when that time comes?

Contact IRS Away Today

The IRS Away team offers free consultations and peace of mind knowing that your IRS tax problems are being dealt with effectively and professionally. Contact tax attorney Joseph M. Arndt III at (803) 771-4037 for a free consultation.

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Top Ten IRS Tax Problems (Part 1)

Top Ten IRS Tax Problems (Part 1)

As we say at IRS Away, “Don’t let the IRS destroy the life and business you have built because you do not know how to defend yourself.” You may ask, “Defend myself from what?” What kinds of tax problems do people most often find themselves in? Is there a “Top 10” of IRS tax problems I should try to avoid?

According to Forbes Magazine, there is such a list, entitled “The Top 10 Most Litigated Tax Issues.” This is a list of tax problems that can tie up your time and your income, and may even end up in IRS tax court. Let’s take a look at some

Common IRS Tax Problems

Tax Problem 10: Relief from Joint and Several Liability

When you get married and file taxes jointly with your spouse, you agree to take on the tax liability of your spouse, and vice versa. There are times, though, that one spouse will seek an exemption from this rule, claiming to be an Innocent Spouse.

Tax Problem 9: Civil Actions to Enforce Federal Tax Liens

When you refuse or neglect to pay your taxes, the IRS takes action, sometimes filing a lien against your property.

Tax Problem 8: Frivolous Issues Penalty

For a variety of reasons, there are people who believe that the IRS doesn’t have the Constitutional authority to collect taxes. So, some “take a stand” by refusing or delaying their tax payments. Not surprisingly, the IRS ALSO takes a stand on the issue.

Tax Problem 7: Charitable Deductions

If you itemize deductions on your federal income tax return, you can claim donations to charitable organizations. Problems arise when the IRS questions the eligibility of the charity, or when they question the fair market value of certain donations (an old car, the furniture you gave to Goodwill, etc.)

Tax Problem 6: Failure to File and Failure to Pay Penalties

This is pretty straightforward. When you fail to file or pay your taxes on time, the IRS may impose penalties such as fines or interest. It is up to you to establish a reasonable cause for your actions.

As we said, this is half of the story, part 2 is coming soon. Obviously, you don’t want to find yourself in any of these situations. But, tax problems arise. And, sometimes people are mistakenly targeted by the IRS. Regardless, there are instances where the charges and penalties can be litigated, negotiated, reduced or eliminated altogether.

Contact IRS Away Today

That is why you should never face an IRS tax problem alone. The IRS Away team offers free consultations and peace of mind knowing that your tax problems are being dealt with effectively and professionally. Contact tax attorney Joseph M. Arndt III at (803) 771-4037 for a free consultation.

Law Offices of Joseph M. Arndt III

3218 Millwood Avenue
Columbia, SC, 29205
803-771-4037