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What are the penalties for not filing taxes?
-
Sep 2008
Has April 15th come and gone and you have avoided filing your taxes? Maybe you don't have the information to complete your return, or you don't have enough money to pay your tax and are afraid to file your return. Whatever the case may be, not filing your taxes has very serious consequences. You many hear about people who get away with cheating Uncle Sam for years, but sooner or later the IRS catches up to people who have not filed.
We've all heard the countless tales of people avoiding income tax whether they are political protestors to straight tax dodgers. Well-known tax evader Irwin Schiff has even written numerous books on the subject. But, beware, what these books never tell you are that failing to file your tax return can be more costly.
Tax evaders often face large criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, as well as civil penalties. Take for example the case of the public accountant in Michigan sentences to five months in prison and five months of house arrest for failing to file tax returns for four, yes, four years. He also had to pay $140 thousand dollars worth of back taxes and $50 thousand in penalties and interest.
Filing taxes isn't voluntary, despite what tax evaders argue. If you make over a certain amount each year you are required to pay a tax on that income. In fact, this requirement is clearly set forth in section 1 of the Internal Revenue Code, which imposes a tax on the taxable income of individuals, estates and trusts.
Not Filing and Not Paying Are Not the Same
This belief is a very serious mistake, because the IRS penalizes for both not filing and not paying. So, what can you do if you calculate your return only to realize you don't have the money to pay the tax? Many people in this situation believe they shouldn't file if they don't have the money. Again, it would be a big mistake not to pay. But, why?
Well, you end up paying a penalty on the amount you owe at 5% per month (4.5 % for not filing and 0.5% for not paying). The total penalty for failure to file and pay can eventually add up to 47.5% (22.5% late filing, 25% late payment) of the tax owed. Interest, compounded daily, is also charged on any unpaid tax from the due date of the return until the date of payment.
The point is that failing to file a tax return should never be an option.
What if you fail to file?
The IRS may file what is known as a substitute return for you. However, as you well know, the IRS will not be looking to save you any money. In fact, a substitute return will not include any of the standard deductions your accountant would typically include in your return. Case in point, a substitute return only allows one exemption: single or married filing separate, so you end up with higher tax liability than if you would have just filed.
The bottom line is, there are numerous reasons to file your tax return even if you cannot pay, including:
- avoiding or minimizing the failure-to-file penalty;
- avoiding having a substitute return filed by the IRS, and allowing you to take your adjustments, deductions and exemptions that are not calculated on a substitute return;
- starting the statute of limitations (in most cases, three years) for a possible audit of your return. This basically means the IRS only has three years from the date you file to audit your return. However, that three-year time limit does not begin until you file.
- starting the statute of limitations (ten years after assessment) for collection of the tax, interest, and penalties on your return. Again, this means the IRS cannot collect the tax, interest or penalties after ten years from the date you file. However, if you don't file, the ten year expiration clock won't start ticking.
- starting the clock to make your taxes, interest, and penalties from your tax return eligible to be dismissed in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (two-four years after filing). Just like the statute of limitations expirations, you're tax debt will be eligible for Bankruptcy sooner if you file immediately.
If the IRS finds that you owe them money, they will send you a bill called a Notice of Tax Due and Demand for Payment. This bill includes the taxes you owe, plus interest and penalties. Because interest and penalties continue to accrue, you are encouraged to pay your tax bill as soon as possible. The IRS accepts payment by credit card, electronic funds transfer, check, money order or cash.
What if I Can't Pay My Bill in Full?
Your best bet is to always pay as much as you can to reduce the amount of interest and penalties you'll owe. Then, immediately call, write or visit the nearest IRS office to explain your situation. Based on your situation, the IRS may offer one of the following resolutions to paying your bill:
Installment Agreement
You may be able to make monthly payments through an installment agreement. This allows your full payment to be paid in smaller, more manageable amounts.
Temporary Delay
The IRS may give you the option of temporarily delaying the collection of your bill if the IRS determines you cannot pay any of your tax debt. During this period, the IRS continues to review your ability to pay and the IRS may also file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien to protect the government's interest in your assets.
Offer in Compromise
If you qualify for an Offer in Compromise, the IRS will settle your unpaid tax accounts for less than the full amount of the balance due. This applies to all taxes, interest and penalties. Please note that a $150 application fee is charged when filing Form 656, Offer in Compromise. An Offer in Compromise is only considered after all other collection alternatives have been explored.
What if you receive a bill that you believe to be incorrect? You should immediately write or call the IRS office that sent you the bill, or visit your local IRS office. Make sure to have a copy of your bill handy, along with any records, tax returns, canceled checks, etc., that will help the IRS understand why you believe your bill is wrong.
One final note
Taxpayers should file all tax returns that are due, regardless of whether or not full payment can be made with the return. Taxpayers who continue to not file a required return and fail to respond to IRS requests for a return may face a variety of enforcement actions, including penalties and/or criminal prosecution. Not paying your taxes will warrant stiff penalties and interest, resulting in an ongoing, and very expensive, relationship with the IRS. For more information, visit the IRS Web site at www.irs.gov.
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Comments
Submitted by on Feb 21, 2010 - 12:12PM
How much time do I have to challenge a substitute tax return. I didn't file a return for 2003 and the IRS filed a substitute a return and I was sick and didn't contest it and they really clobbered me.
Submitted by on Jan 25, 2012 - 8:00AM
irs filed substitute 2003 return for my husband stating he did not file one. husband filed on his own. husband refiled 2002-2004 returns. subsequently, irs kept our 2005 refund bc they said he owed money from the 2003 return. should irs adjusted the refiled 2003 return & not kept our 2005 refund?
Submitted by on Jul 6, 2010 - 8:44AM
I have a friend that has not filed his taxes from 2002-2006 but filed them 2007-2009 and got pretty nice refunds. I dont know how he did that and them not catch it. The only thing he can think of is that 2002-2006 he worked contract labor and only received a 1099 and filed single. In 2007-2009 received a W-2 from another company and filed married filing jointly. Should he file these back taxes? He is so afraid of getting into trouble and oweing a ton of money but i told him it was a federal Offense if he didnt file. He made about $65,000-$70,000 tose years he didnt file 2002-2006. Thank you!
Submitted by on Jul 21, 2010 - 12:52PM
Hello, and thanks for the great questions. While we'd love to help, LegalZoom specializes in the creation of legal documents, and doesn't offer any type of legal advice about tax laws. For your situation, you may want to check out our attorney referral network:http://attorneyconnect.legalzoom.com
Submitted by on Nov 8, 2010 - 10:36PM
I know someone who has not filed their taxes in eight years. What should they do now? This was while the couple was married and they are now in the process of divorcing. Does this change anything?
Submitted by on Dec 16, 2010 - 5:04PM
Hello thanks for your question. We'd love to help, but our specialty is legal documents, not legal advice. We can help you find a lawyer to answer your questions, though. Check out our attorney referral network: http://attorneyconnect.legalzoom.com
Submitted by on Dec 9, 2010 - 8:44PM
Show me the law that says I shall file a form 1040 please.
Submitted by on Jan 13, 2012 - 2:15PM
Internal Revenue Code § 6011(a) and Treasury Regulations §1.6011-1.
Submitted by on Jan 22, 2011 - 4:14PM
I had filled taxes one year then i skipped a year and then filed again. But then i got a letter from irs saying i had missed a year of filing taxes and that i had to pay the year they gave me money and file that missing year. Well i i did pay the tax check back but from there on i did not file taxes for about 10 years now. I wan t to fix this problem but not sure how to go about it. And i need a W2 from one of my employers in 2000 how can i still get that.Any help would be great...Thanks
Submitted by on Feb 6, 2011 - 1:10PM
The Internal Revenue Service was set up the same year that the Federal Reserve System Corporation Bank stole the authority to issue the United States Currency. No longer issued interest-free by Congress, now an interest payment was needed to secure the loans taken by the Government. Thus, the creation of the Internal Revenue Service, and the changing of the 16th Amendment.
The IRS as well as the Federal Reserve Corporation Bank are private enterprises and unconstitutional in both their existence and illegal in their actions against the American People.
Federal Income Taxes are totally illegal and against the U.S. Constitution.
Submitted by on Feb 27, 2011 - 3:44PM
hi, i would like to know what are the consequences for no reporting amout in box 12? will it affect the final number in my return? should i amend my return? please let me know. thanks.
Submitted by on Mar 4, 2011 - 5:07PM
Hi Maria, thanks for your questions. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but we can't give specific legal advice about tax returns. If you want help finding an attorney, try our attorney referral network: http://attorneyconnect.legalzoom.com
Submitted by on Mar 22, 2011 - 3:02PM
Hello. I have tax ID number. And I did not pay my taxes for 3 years. Now I am geting SSN. So, all the debt from TAX ID will be transfered to my SSN?
Submitted by on Apr 14, 2011 - 10:47AM
Hello this is certainly a great question. Please note that because LegalZoom is not a law firm we are unable to provide legal advice regarding this matter. You may want to seek an attorney for legal guidance or speak to a tax professional. If you want help finding an attorney, try our Attorney Services Division: http://attorneyconnect.legalzoom.com
Submitted by on Apr 16, 2011 - 1:59PM
Hello! I just did 15 months in federal prison for failure to file my income tax forms. I did this on purpose for 16 years, as I was a war tax protester. It was my civil disobedience in the face of a corrupt and criminal system. The Federal judicial system is no joke, and not very fun. There is no innocent until proven guilty. Anyway, I found out a few things going through that process...
1) It is illegal to NOT file an income tax form (1040). DUH. You can be put in prison for this, if you are hard-headed like I am. I talked to the IRS in person three times, twice with regular IRS employees, then with IRS CID agents (CPA's with badges and guns). So, you can see they gave me plenty of chances. Not filing your income tax is one of the few federal misdemeanors, meaning I went to a real federal prison surrounded by real felons, and I was there for the equivalent of a traffic ticket. I was the only person in that prison with a misdemeanor. There were 1600 other inmates in the Big Spring FCI with me. Pretty crazy, huh?
2) It is illegal to CHEAT or LIE on your IRS 1040 form. ALSO DUH. This is a felony, and gets 5 years every time they charge you for it. So this one is a big NO-NO.
3) Here's the kicker... It is NOT ILLEGAL to not pay. Yes, you read that correct. If you can't pay for whatever reason they will NEVER throw you in prison. They will never charge you with a crime that would bring you into a real court. An "Administrative" court, MAYBE. That said... Yes, they may attach liens to your real estate (including your residence) and levy your bank account and try to take your property, and attach your wages, but they will NEVER put you in prison. And all that stuff has to be in your name for them to take it. They cant take stuff that doesn't belong to you....
Yeah, I didn't know this either. No one told me until I got into the federal judicial system. My lawyer told me this while I was preparing my case. He says very few people know about this. Remember, there is no debtors prison in the USA!
READ AGAIN - NO DEBTORS PRISON IN USA
Well, there is for dead-beat dads that owe child support. But not for income tax! Or any other tax.
So here are some ideas to ponder:
So what does that mean? If you are looking to minimize your personal tax debt and liability, you will need to do some things. Well, first of all... Just be 100% honest and file the paper work. Be diligent about it too, because you're gonna save A LOT of money on taxes for just a little time in paperwork... And at the end of the year, if you can't pay, dont worry! After a few years of not paying, with all the interest and penalties the sum gets quite literally ridiculous. But remember, there is always the Offer in Compromise program, which is you basically telling the IRS that you can't pay, even worse can never pay and then offer them say 5% of the tax bill, and then you get a clean slate! YES THIS WORKS! Every day of the week.
Moving forward:
For the best protection for your assets and to generate any real lasting wealth, you need to learn about LLC's. They're cheap and easy to set up. YOU NEED TO LEARN ABOUT THIS! Not just for tax benefits, but in our litigious society, its critical knowledge to protect yourself.
The remedy is that you never own anything again. You may control it and use it, BUT NEVER OWN IT. The IRS cannot take from you that which you do not own. Simple. They can't take the house my neighbor owns because I owe the IRS!
Here's how:
All your real property goes into LLC's like cars and real estate. The IRS cannot attach liens to property that you don't own. You can even open bank accounts with LLC's. And you can get an EIN for the LLC. All online. Cheap. Easy. Fast.
If you own a small business, you have the business make all the income. Make sure you file all the paperwork and returns and DON'T CHEAT or LIE. The LLC gets the tax bill, and pays what it can, whatever you feel is appropriate. If the debt becomes unmanagable in a few years, uou will eventually shut it down and do an offer in compromise or allow the IRS to seize anything in the LLC's name. Not YOU! And if the LLC receiving the payments owns nothing? Well nothing will be seized! Yes that is CORRECT.
If you are an employee, you need to change to be an independent contractor for your old employer. Your old boss is now your client, and pays the FULL AMOUNT of your paycheck, no taxes removed as a CONTRACTOR in the name of the LLC. The LLC receives this money, and pays all your expenses. And the LLC pays you minimum wage, as its sole employee. You can set up a series of these LLC's and this is all 100% completely legal. And you will save a BOATLOAD on taxes. And its more private as well! The LLC assumes the tax liability. You will need to send in the quarterly reports, and file the returns, but if at the end of the year, if you can't pay the tax bill, SO WHAT? They will not put anyone in prison for that! EVER!!!
Businesses fail every day. The current money system, businesses are almost set-up for failure. Thats OK, all the government wants is to document it in their systems! That's all they want is to be informed. Kept in the loop. Anything in that LLCs name are the only items liable for attachment for that LLC's tax liability. If you make less than the federal minimum income, you personally will pay very little if any tax.
Your LLC's pay the majority of your bills for you. Like big businesses that pay expense accounts for business people. Little businesses can do it to. Every day of the week. Making less than minimum wage is a GREAT IDEA, right? You will still file a personal 1040, but you will pay very little OR ZERO taxes. Just for doing the paperwork the right way.
Now you know why these CEO's give themselves salaries of $1 per year! LOL!
You should NEVER co-mingle funds, ie: write checks directly to yourself from the LLC. Always send bills and receipts if transferring funds between LLC's, just like a regular business. Keep all these records, just like a regular business. In fact, it is a regular business. This is how business works in this country.
And now you know the dirty little secret that keeps business running in America. Only wage-slaves pay taxes, didn't you know that? Business pay very little, or if you're smart, NO TAXES.
America is about BUSINESS.
Time to start your own business as an LLC, yeah?
Chris
Submitted by on Jan 25, 2012 - 10:25AM
i own a grooming salon,was doing good had all my paper work then my floors was flooded ,where i kept all my files at the time no insurance, was unable to save most of my things and a lady that was helping me clean threw so much away with out my knowing, i tried to retrieve the information and it got so over welming them i hurt myself and my doctor put me on so much medications i was unable to even run the shop its now be since 2006 since my last file i have been very afraid i was skimming by the seat of my pants just to keep the doors open, i can no longer do the work anymore and am very afraid of even going to file taxes because i dont have the paperwork for every thing nor the money im afraid if i even go to the tax office i will be arrested do u have anything that can help me?
Submitted by on Feb 3, 2012 - 7:50PM
Great Article Chris, too bad you found out about this the hard way lol. I've been reading and learning a lot from Robert Kiyosaki. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience. Best of luck
Submitted by on Sep 27, 2012 - 1:30AM
Chris is right... I was a w2 employee and in 2006 I did not file my taxes. I actually did not file them till 2010 and the IRS agents busted me and charged me for tax evasion. I'm taking a plea for 2 years in prison... I'm hoping I will get house arrest. My crime is not because I owe money but because I did not file... I never knew this. I wish there were a class in high school that tought me that. We are all to know that if you don't file you are in big trouble. I learned the HARD way as I have a wife and 2 kids. It's basically ruining my life. My wife already left for 6 months with another man because she was scared I was going to prison.... She came back and I just had my hearing on September 24, 2012. I have two more court dates to see the outcome... I'll know by January 2013 if I'm going away. I will never not file my taxes again... If I owe oh well. It's not a crime to owe, it's a crime to not file.
Submitted by on Apr 18, 2011 - 10:19PM
I didn't file cause I lost my I.d. and was waiting so Im pretty sure I didn't owe but how much moneywise is the penalty?
Submitted by on Apr 26, 2011 - 5:46AM
Chris Kudo's to you!
Your On IT!!! or about it!!!
People it's about the Corporation
Protecting your assets! Chris is right
about his comment. You get these things
out of your name and let the Corporation
whom is a
1)Artificial Person
2)Never Piercing the Corporate Veil(look it up)
or ask a Paralegal or Atty
Corporate Para/Atty OR Acct or CPA Please)
3)Chancery Court Delaware (Look it up)
4) A Pro Business state like Delaware or Neveda.
Also you need to understand the
LLC's, C Corporation,Partnership, S Corp,etc
because each is unique. Do your Research!
There is a reason you have the
FORTUNE 500 CORP'S STARTED ILLIONS OF YEARS AGO.
They are protected by the gov't
and they will never be allowed to dwindle
or dissolve. Called Capitalism!
So called free enterprise! Remember the
Bailouts 100's of Billions of Taxpayers monies
that's US folks!!!
Works for a few not for ALL- So wise up my
fellow Americans.
Get yours before you become broke again/homeless/
lose everything you worked for over 20/30/40/50+years.
But always remember no matter what you cannot take
these things to the grave SO WISE UP!
Submitted by on Apr 27, 2011 - 10:46AM
My in-laws are in their 80's and only receive their social security. They receive probably less than 15.00 a year in interest. They tell me that they do not have to file taxes anymore. Is this correct?
Submitted by on May 4, 2011 - 1:43PM
Hi Lois, this is a great question. We'd love to help, but our specialty is legal documents, not legal advice. We can help you find a lawyer to answer your questions, though. Check out our Attorney Services Division: http://attorneyconnect.legalzoom.com
Submitted by on May 12, 2011 - 11:49AM
My das hasnt filed from 2007 to 2011 and he owns his own business. He recently had the bank take out 1300 dollars out from california. They said owes 8000 just for 2007 what is he in for?
Submitted by on May 13, 2011 - 6:47AM
hi what will happen to my husband who hasnt filed his taxes in 16 years that he and i have been togethier. im begining to worry
Submitted by on Oct 15, 2011 - 9:58PM
What if filed a tax extension and still don't file after the extension and this year I would owe the IRS 5000 is their any way I could ask for more time to prepare the paperwork and possibly go on a payment plan?
Submitted by on Oct 19, 2011 - 6:17PM
Hi im am getting married in a month and i just found out that my husbend to be hasnt filed taxes ever. however he has worked since he was sixteen. what will happen when we file this coming year? And where can i find out if he owes moeny or is in trouble?
Submitted by on Jan 30, 2012 - 4:43PM
I would not file jointly at all! File married filing seperate. Before I married my husband I had NO clue he didnt file taxes for 4 years. Now I am getting letters. I called my attorney and he informed me to NOT file jointly with these! File seperate..do not involve yourself with that mess!
Submitted by on Nov 19, 2011 - 5:42AM
Under what authority can the IRS file a substitute 1040 return if a 1040 has already beem filed???
Submitted by on Nov 23, 2011 - 4:49PM
My friend did not file his IRS taxes for several years . He is self employed and turned 62 , Will his SS check be affected by this. He lives in NC . What damages will he incur? How can he remedy this?
Submitted by on Dec 9, 2011 - 7:49AM
Hi
I filed my 2010 Taxes late this year (August), because my brother tried to file my taxes online...but got rejected because I didn't have enough proof. So I went to a Tax Accountant and we filed the taxes together...but I haven't heard from the IRS. I didn't make much in 2010, I made like around $3600. Should I go back to my accountant or since it's 2012 soon...not bother?
Submitted by on Dec 22, 2011 - 11:23AM
Just so you all know, there is no law (no matter who says, you should always look for yourself...ALWAYS) Anyways, there is NO LAW (at least federally) that requires anyone to file an income tax return. Paying is one thing, but no one has to legally file. Don't freak out. You will NOT go to jail...as long as you prove in court that there is nothing that forces you to file. Unfortunately, most legal system folk fail to mention or just don't know this because filing has become so common place that it's just expected, and Americans have a nasty habit of blindly believing that what is expected is also the law.
And as another tip, no one legally has to pay back loans (usually from banks) because they are a form of illegitimate consideration which voids the contract to repay. This was proven in the court case "First National Bank of Montgomery VS. Jerome Daly."
Within the first six pages of "Modern Money Mechanics," a book published by the Federal Reserve describing the practice of money creation in a "fractional reserve" banking system, it states that banks must have a legally required reserve (10% of deposits) and then it CLEARLY states that the banks don't take the excessive reserve (the other 90%) out of the banks, otherwise no new money would exist. THE FED MAKES MONEY OUT OF THIS AIR, and by design, so do all the other banks controlled by it. This is how inflation can exist!
In black and white, money and debt are literally the same thing. This is true because if every debt were paid off, there wouldn't be any money at all. A former governor of the FED, Marriner S. Eccles, even said that!!
If this economic bs is still making no sense, I HIGHLY SUGGEST watch Part I of Zeitgeist: Addendum on YouTube.
Submitted by on Jun 5, 2012 - 10:18AM
You are correct, Mr. Daly was able to successfully get his mortgage released and First National was unable to collect on his mortgage because of this fact. However, now that 90% of all mortgages are not actually held by banks, but sold to and held by the non-banking GSE's Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac essentially no one would be able to successfully pull off what Mr. Daly did today....furthermore, and as is the case in almost every other contract anyone signs these days from mortgages, credit cards, cell phones, etc. you waive your right to a trial by jury for any such disagreement between you and your creditors, and instead have agreed to mandatory arbitration facilitied by an arbitrator that the creditor chooses and already has on retainer (don't believe me go back to your original contracts and look for the "mandatory arbitration clause"), thanks to the massive amout of Tort Reform lobbied for by Big Business, The Banking Cartel, and so called "elected" bodies of this Corporate States of America. The GSE's were not only created to curb bank failures, minimize interest rate risk on their part after the huge losses they incurred per the Great Depression, but also so that citizens like Mr. Daly could not benefit from the fact that "money is debt"....the operations allows for the banks to obtain and facilitate huge "warehouse" lines of credit so that the money they lend for mortgages and some other debts outside the 10%/90% rule is not included in the "money is debt" argument, because it's money they owe and not retain...this is why the 30 year mortgage is a racket as well since not owning the mortgage gives the bank no incentive to provide the borrower a more consumer-centric type mortgage like the "Off-Set Mortgages" and "All-In-One Accounts" that banks in Canada, Australia, and most of Europe provide to their citizens....banks although they give off the impression that they lend the money from their reserves almost never do, and make huge profits from origination fees from the consumers on the mortgages at closing, and then again when they sell the unload/sell the debt from their line of credits to the GSE's, and finally they then retain on aggregate billions of dollars in servicing fees paid to them by the GSE's to service the same mortgage loan(s) they purchased from that bank, which again, gives off the illusion that the transaction is seamless and the loan is actually owned/held by the bank that originated the mortgage loan....but of course this has nothing to do with not filing your tax return, but everything to do with the complete hijacking of our economic system facilitated by the Federal Reserve Act and immediate passage of the Revenue Act both in 1913.....illegal or not, it's a racket that's for sure and especially since this country can't even cover it's interest payments with the amount of income tax collected, and that 60% of our budget is defense/security related and is $8.0B more than the next civilized country makes paying taxes each year for me harder and harder.
Submitted by on Jan 13, 2012 - 4:31PM
I am a new tax preparer and was blown away to find out my moms new husband has not filed in 13 years. He claims his refund was always kept for twins he had never seen. I don't know or care about the truth in that. I worry that he could get into trouble and my mother left alone, or even worse she get into trouble too because they are married. I have talked him into letting me see what I can do, and I love a challenge, but I'm not sure exactly how to do this because of him owing child support. Any suggestions on what path to take or advice to give him?
Submitted by on Feb 16, 2012 - 7:15AM
Hi Brandy-- Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding this situation. However, you can get free legal advice on the LegalZoom Facebook page every Friday and Tuesday. Check out Free Joe: http://zoo.mn/FreeJoe.
Submitted by on Jan 14, 2012 - 8:11AM
Question : I'm the Power of Attorney for a friend who is in Federal Prison, He has a small acerage that is rented to a farmer and his house I have rented for him while he is away, he has 6 years left to serve, do I have to file Federal and State Tax returns for him ?? The total income amounts to 14,000 a year.
Submitted by on Feb 16, 2012 - 7:18AM
Hi Myronie--Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding this situation. However, you can get free legal advice on the LegalZoom Facebook page every Friday and Tuesday. Check out Free Joe: http://zoo.mn/FreeJoe.
Submitted by on Jan 15, 2012 - 7:10AM
I am an expat living overseas who married a gal that her and her family have their farm business and she takes care of me.
I did not earn any income in 2009 or 2010 and never filed a 1040 to the IRS. With 2011 tax year wrapped up I will file even though I still have no earned income.
Will I need to call the IRS or hire a tax accountant for no earned income, or should I just file the 2009 & 2010 1040's along with my 2011 1040 without the guidance of a service?
It was a foolish mistake now I am curious of how much I owe IRS in penalties for not filing and also I would like to know what items will the IRS need to see from me, to prove I haven't been in the USA since January 2008?
Submitted by on Feb 16, 2012 - 7:22AM
Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding this situation. However, you can get free legal advice on the LegalZoom Facebook page every Friday and Tuesday. Check out Free Joe: http://zoo.mn/FreeJoe or you may wish to speak to a tax consultant for more information.
Submitted by on Jan 24, 2012 - 5:41AM
Hi, I wanted to know if I only made $4000 in 2012 and have two dependents can I receive any tax money back
Submitted by on Feb 21, 2012 - 11:34AM
Hi Mona! Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Jan 24, 2012 - 3:41PM
i believe i was given an extension untill jan. 27, 2012 to do my state income tax for 2009 & 2010. however my lawyer just came back to work yesterday jan. 23, 2012. I have an appointment to get this done on thurs. jan 26 @ 2:30 p.m. he was out for medical reasons. can i get a few more days to do this? THANKS FOR YOUR ATTENTION IN THIS MATTER.
Submitted by on Feb 21, 2012 - 11:35AM
Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Jan 25, 2012 - 7:12PM
What number do i call to check to see if im penalized on my tax return before i file?
Submitted by on Feb 21, 2012 - 11:41AM
Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Jan 26, 2012 - 5:06PM
Hi the irs say I did not file in 2006 and 2007 but I filed my 2011 thru efile I get 700 will I get my return
Submitted by on Feb 21, 2012 - 11:45AM
Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Jan 30, 2012 - 8:22PM
I just wondering if im gonna owe IRS, because i still owe real estate tax from last year! Am i gonna end up owing money to them?
Submitted by on Feb 22, 2012 - 7:07AM
Hi Beth! Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Feb 2, 2012 - 12:48AM
I know someone who is illegal and hasn't done taxes for 13 years....can he get in trouble....and if he files. Taxes this year making less than $20,000 all this years how much does he owe the IRS.
Submitted by on Feb 22, 2012 - 9:34AM
Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Feb 7, 2012 - 10:48PM
i need a advice please.I filed my EIC when i realized that a fraud's office.i asked to cancel my application.next I refile my EIC in other office.but after they have finished filling the forms.IRS mentionned it had already receive my tax form.how do i cancel the first application?what should i do?
Submitted by on Apr 17, 2012 - 10:36AM
Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Feb 9, 2012 - 7:38PM
Final note? Isn't that legal advice? Isn't this whole article legal advice????
Submitted by on Feb 23, 2012 - 7:10AM
Thanks for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding anyone's specific situation. The articles we provide are used for informational purposes only. If you would like to know how this would apply specifically to you, you should contact an attorney. You can get free legal advice on the LegalZoom Facebook page every Friday and Tuesday. Check out Free Joe: http://zoo.mn/FreeJoe for more information.
Submitted by on Mar 8, 2012 - 5:53PM
QUESTION....WHICH IRS BUSINESS TAX FORMS DO I FILE FOR THE YEAR 2011...FOR P.L.D. RUSSEL, JR. AND ASSCO., LLC WHICH WAS STARTED IN JUNE OF 2011
I NEED TO FILE FEDERAL AND STATE....I ONLY MADE 650.00 FOR THE YEAR, BUT EXPENDED APPROX 2,000. I.E. OFFICE SPACE, PRIVATE INVESTGTORS LIC., OTHER BUSINESS EXPENDITURES.
THANK YOU
Submitted by on May 9, 2012 - 10:12AM
Hi Paul - Thank you for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA to help you with this matter.
Submitted by on Mar 12, 2012 - 1:11PM
I HAVEN'T FILED MY TAXES IN FOUR YEARS AND HASN'T HAD ANY TAXES TAKEN OUT ON ME STATE OR FEDERAL WHAT DO I NEED TO DO
Submitted by on May 9, 2012 - 10:25AM
Thank you for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Mar 27, 2012 - 10:47PM
in 2010 i was unemployed homeless. and living out of my car until last year. i finally got a job. but did not file for 2010 because of the fact, i had no income.
the irs wants me to file for 2010 what do i put on it?
Submitted by on May 9, 2012 - 2:52PM
Hi Mike - Thank you for contacting LegalZoom. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA to assist you in this matter.
Submitted by on May 9, 2012 - 5:54AM
Your article is full of errors and lies. I will not point them all out, but here is one for example: "...the IRS cannot collect the tax, interest or penalties after ten years from the date you file. However, if you don't file, the ten year expiration clock won't start ticking." LIE. Te Collection Statute Expiration Date is not calculated to be Ten Years from the date of filing. LIE. Hey people! do your research before you do what you're told, and here is a clue: this article does not count as legitimate research; it is full of crap.
Submitted by on Jun 11, 2012 - 6:19AM
what are the consequences for not filing of income tax return for corresponding 3 years?
Submitted by on Jun 22, 2012 - 2:22PM
Hi Nikita - Thank you for contacting us. LegalZoom makes creating legal documents easy and affordable, but since we're not a law firm, we can't give specific legal advice regarding taxes. You may wish to speak to a qualified tax consultant or CPA.
Submitted by on Jun 17, 2012 - 5:22PM
I haven'filed taxes since 1993...haven't worked since june 2005.Had a stroke in march 2006. Would like to apply for citizenship before I have to do dialysis...how many years back taxes do I have to file to make me become a ciizen. Understand there is a penalty for not filing...THANK YOU!!!
Submitted by on Jun 22, 2012 - 2:49PM
Hi Jacqueline - Thank you for contacting LegalZoom. While we make creating legal documents easy and affordable, we unfortunately cannot give specific legal advice on becoming a citizen. However, feel free to get free legal advice on the LegalZoom Facebook page every Tuesday and Friday. Check out Free Joe: http://zoo.mn/FreeJoe.
Submitted by on Feb 2, 2013 - 8:58PM
I have not filed my state return for many years. If I didn't owe and was expected to get a refund, however little it was, would they penalize me for that? Or will they just keep the money they would've owed me and go on their merry way? They have never sent me any letters or anything so far, and I believe that I haven't filed my state return since 2007. This year I did file both returns for 2012, and I was worried that they might hold my refund. Any information would be helpful! Thank you!
Submitted by on Feb 22, 2013 - 7:38PM
Here's a scenario... A husband has a business, and based on his politics, the husband does not report the business income for a good number of years. The wife either doesn't take part in the husbands behavior, or doesn't know about it at the time. The husband passes away and the wife closes the business. There is several hundred thousand dollars of business money in a bank account and the wife is afraid to access that money for fear that the community will find out, she'll be publicly humiliated and sent to prison if the IRS finds out. She is paralyzed by fear and doesn't know what to do. She is afraid to ask for counseling for fear that word will get leaked out. Her family is also fearful, and doesn't know what to do. -- Is there any way that she can set her self free without getting in a mound trouble, going to jail, etc? What are her options? Thank you.
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