Fewer things in life can be more upsetting than receiving a letter from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) informing you that it will audit or investigate you or your business. If you have received such a letter, take swift and deliberate action to ensure the proper safeguard of your legal rights.
If you have recently become aware that you or your business is the subject of an IRS investigation, you need legal counsel on your side throughout the entire process. Philadelphia tax lawyer Brian J. Zeiger can investigate your circumstances, protect all of your legal rights throughout the investigation, and develop a plan to move forward.
Steps to Take After Being Notified of an IRS Investigation
Once the IRS has notified you of an investigation, keep the following in mind:
Say nothing – As with any other type of criminal investigation or prosecution, say nothing that could potentially incriminate you or that could be used against you in a court of law without first speaking with a knowledgeable attorney. Never agree to an interview or a recorded statement, and be careful what you say to family, friends, coworkers, or accountants, since the IRS could end up interviewing any (or all) of these individuals.
Consider who may have reported you – Oftentimes, IRS investigations begin when a disgruntled employee, business partner, or former spouse has an interest in reporting you to the IRS and launches an investigation against you. Let a knowledgeable Philadelphia tax attorney make the necessary contacts with these suspected individuals, and refrain from doing so yourself.
Consider voluntary disclosures – If you know that the allegations filed against you have merit, consider making a voluntary disclosure upon the advice of legal counsel. In some cases, the IRS will allow taxpayers to voluntarily disclose underpayment of taxes and other instances of tax evasion. This may allow you to avoid criminal charges in favor of a civil audit.
Take action – Being contacted by the IRS is serious business, and a conviction for tax evasion, tax fraud, or similar charges can result in severe penalties—not to mention a criminal record. Rather than being evasive or ignoring the problem, immediately contact a knowledgeable Philadelphia tax lawyer who can assist you with your case.
Contact a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tax Attorney Today to Discuss Your Case
A knowledgeable Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, tax attorney can offer you advice about how to handle an IRS investigation. Your attorney will have your best interests at heart and may guide you through the steps needed to achieve the best possible legal result in your case.