Best Tax Attorneys in Downey

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where does the Tax Court hold trial sessions closest to Downey, California?

  The United States Tax Court holds trial sessions in Los Angeles because of its close proximity to Downey.

• Where is the low-income taxpayer clinic that is closest to Downey, California?

  The Bet Tzedek Legal Services Tax Clinic, which serves low-income taxpayers in Downey, is located at 8431 Firestone Blvd, Suite 100, Downey, CA 90241.

• What are some situations that necessitate calling in a tax attorney for tax problems in Downey?

  Downey taxpayers who owe the IRS more than $10,000 in unpaid back taxes may need a competent tax lawyer to talk to the IRS when they receive audit summonses. By proactively disclosing their unpaid taxes, taxpayers can avoid audits. Tax lawyers provide guidance on how taxpayers can effectively utilize voluntary disclosure programs to their advantage.

• Under what circumstances are Downey taxpayers eligible for the Penalty Abatement Program offered by the IRS?

  Downey taxpayers may be eligible for penalty relief if they make a genuine effort to comply with tax regulations but face uncontrollable circumstances that hinder their ability to fulfill their tax obligations. To qualify for the first-time penalty abatement program, taxpayers must have fulfilled their obligation to file all necessary returns or requested an extension for filing. The IRS also acknowledges valid reasons for not filing tax returns promptly, such as financial hardship, medical illness, or a lack of awareness regarding tax laws.

• When does a Downey taxpayer commit tax fraud or a simple mistake?

  Tax fraud or tax evasion typically involves a deliberate and intentional act of wrongdoing where individuals knowingly violate their legal obligations. Note that mere carelessness does not constitute tax fraud. To determine if a Downey taxpayer has committed tax fraud, the IRS examines several indicators. These encompass elements such as underreporting income, maintaining insufficient records, and failing to file tax returns.

• What options are available to Downey taxpayers when their request for penalty abatement is denied?

  Downey taxpayers whose penalty abatement requests have been denied by the IRS have the option to pursue an appeals conference or hearing. IRS appeals officers oversee these proceedings, which involve a thorough evaluation of the details and context of the taxpayers' abatement requests. Typically, taxpayers have a 30-day window from the issuance of the rejection letter by the IRS to initiate an appeal.

• What happens to Downey taxpayers if they fail to meet the April 15 deadline for filing their tax returns?

  If Downey residents fail to file their tax returns on time, they run the risk of forfeiting their refund and being ineligible to receive the earned income tax credit, a refundable federal income tax credit designed to assist low-income working individuals and families. There is also the possibility of incurring a penalty for failing to file, which can be imposed when the tax filing deadline is missed.