The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) led to major tax reform. One specific example: the TCJA led to the elimination of the previously allowed business deduction for meals and entertainment. Change leads to confusion: What business deductions will the IRS allow? Although...
U.S. Tax Law Blog
IRS limits tax workarounds: New York towns are fighting back
Many towns across the state have high property tax rates. Limits to the state and local tax (SALT) deductions incorporated in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 may hit these residents and communities hard in 2019. One example is the village of Haverstraw – on average,...
States pass new online sales tax laws, will they survive?
Taxation of online transactions is notoriously difficult. What does it take for a state to claim enough interaction to require a tax obligation? This question has led to many legal battles, the most recent of which made it to the highest court in the country. The...
The power of the IRS: Did you know about this potential penalty?
It is no surprise that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will impose penalties if you do not pay your tax bill. The agency is clear about its ability to fine taxpayers' various penalties and fees and, in some cases, potential for imprisonment for failure to meet our...
IRS to collaborate with state authorities to address tax evasion
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) continues its efforts to crackdown on tax evasion. The latest focus involves increased communication with state agencies. Is this new? No. The IRS already collaborates with state and local agencies to help better ensure taxpayers are...
You’ve been summoned by the IRS, now what?
In general, unless you are expecting a refund check, a letter from the IRS is an anxiety-inducing experience. Occasionally, the IRS sends out an Information Document Request ( IDR), asking for information. While you do not have a legal obligation to comply, if you...
Three steps when IRS questions a deduction
You have likely heard the adage "innocent until proven guilty." Although this holds true in most criminal cases, it does not apply to investigations by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). How are investigations by the IRS different? Taxpayers generally bear the burden...
Restaurants accused of tax fraud, face state and federal charges
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has accused five restaurants to tax evasion. The charges include claims the restaurant owners made use of software called “tax zappers” to remove revenue from their books. Instead of properly claiming proceeds from their restaurants on...
You have mail: What to do when the IRS asks about a foreign asset
Those who are savvy in their financial planning efforts likely have diversified their investments. For many, this includes the use of financial assets. When done wisely such planning is legal and beneficial. However, a simple misstep could result in a failure to...
Investment strategy leads to allegations of tax fraud
Investing assets is a complicated business. As such, it is not uncommon to hire a financial planner or to seek advice from investment professionals to aid in creation of an investment strategy. In many cases, this can lead to a strategy that minimizes risks while...

