IRS Amnesty Program
Learn More About the New Jersey IRS Amnesty Program
Taxpayers who have knowingly violated the tax laws of the United States are in danger of criminal prosecution by the Government. However, they can typically avoid prosecution by self-reporting their prior tax violations to the IRS before the IRS begins an investigation. This is accomplished by taking advantage of the IRS Voluntary Disclosure Program. While making a Voluntary Disclosure does not guarantee that the IRS will not refer the taxpayer to the Department of Justice for criminal prosecution, it is a long-standing practice of the IRS to not refer for prosecution taxpayers who make a full Voluntary Disclosure of their transgressions.
Voluntary disclosures are extremely sensitive and complex. Strict rules and guidelines dictate who can qualify for amnesty and the manner in which foreign bank account information must be disclosed. Once taxpayers are accepted into the Voluntary Disclosure Program, they must provide the IRS with full cooperation while their case is being reviewed. Thus, a taxpayer's eligibility for this program must be carefully evaluated prior to contacting the IRS. Generally speaking, the IRS’s Voluntary Disclosure policy applies to a taxpayer who:
- Completely and voluntarily informs the IRS of his or her tax violations;
- Had income from only legal sources;
- Makes the disclosure prior to being informed that he or she is under criminal investigation or civil audit;
- Files a correct tax return or cooperates with the IRS in ascertaining his or her correct tax liability; and
- Makes full payment of the amount due, or if unable to do so, makes arrangements to pay.
The Voluntary Disclosure Program is not just for individuals. Corporations, partnerships, trusts, and other entities are eligible to participate in this initiative.
Undisclosed Offshore Accounts Are Serious Business
With the recent emphasis the IRS has placed on foreign bank accounts, time is of the essence - Once the IRS opens an examination of a taxpayer, that taxpayer is no longer eligible to participate in the Voluntary Disclosure Program. Thorn Law Group has the experience to help you come into tax compliance with the IRS through the Voluntary Disclosure Program and possibly enter into the IRS’s New Amnesty Program.
By coming forward and reporting previously undisclosed income and assets, taxpayers can avoid costly civil penalties and possible criminal prosecution. Thorn Law Group has extensive experience bringing such matters before the IRS on behalf of our clients. Once we determine your eligibility to participate in the Voluntary Disclosure Program and/or the current IRS Amnesty Program, we will work with you to present your tax situation to the IRS in a manner that is candid and complete. Thorn Law Group’s extensive knowledge of the IRS Voluntary Disclosure Program and the current IRS Amnesty Program has enabled many of our clients to obtain positive results.
For the most up-to-date information on the IRS’s New Amnesty Program, offshore account investigations, and voluntary disclosures, visit: News & Events and Blog. Our New Jersey attorneys look forward to working with you regarding the IRS Amnesty Program.
To learn more about how the Thorn Law Group can help you with your tax and legal issues, contact Kevin E. Thorn, Managing Partner, at ket@thornlawgroup.com or 201-355-8202.
