failing to file
What can a person do when they are a few years behind on filing taxes?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: failing to file
I hate to give you an answer that just refers you somewhere else, but for a very complete discussion of the problems facing "nonfilers" and what can be done to resolve those problems, please read the article on this exact subject posted on my website, www.bjhaynes.com (go to the articles section and look for the article "Healing Self-Inflicted Wounds -- Representing Non-Filers"). You will find that unless you are already under criminal investigation by the IRS, this is a problem which can be resolved without too much pain and suffering. (Please note -- if you are due a refund for 1999, you must file the return by April 15, 2003, or the IRS will not be able to give you your refund).
Re: failing to file
First, DO NOT TALK TO THE IRS! If you owe substantial amounts of taxes, and admit that you know you should have filed, your could be subject to criminal prosecution.
Nevertheless, most non-filing is civil. The smart thing to do is to IMMEDIATELY call a tax LAWYER (not a CPA) to discuss this matter and get the returns prepared. The lawyer has attorney-client priviledge in such matters. Please see my website, http://www.taxesq.com for a discussion of this.
Re: failing to file
If you wish to discuss this matter with a tax attorney in your area, which was good advice, you may call my office for consultation. The initial consultation is free. 251-450-0111. this is in Mobile, AL.