Tom's Tax Tip
Apr. 18th, 2006 09:23 pmIf you receive a letter from the IRS that says you messed up and you have to pay $A plus a fine of $B for making the mistake, just send them a check for $A. They won't come after you for the $B.
Why?
Because many years ago someone did that and took it to tax court. He said, "Do I owe you $A now?" the IRS said, "No" and he replied, "Well then I certainly don't owe you a fine, do I?"
The judge upheld it. It's been true ever since.
(Obviously, ask you tax advisor before doing this.)
(And, no, I didn't receive any such letter.)
Why?
Because many years ago someone did that and took it to tax court. He said, "Do I owe you $A now?" the IRS said, "No" and he replied, "Well then I certainly don't owe you a fine, do I?"
The judge upheld it. It's been true ever since.
(Obviously, ask you tax advisor before doing this.)
(And, no, I didn't receive any such letter.)