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Tax Evasion Penalties Guide & Tax Fraud Jail Time Sentences
Can you serve tax fraud jail time? Learn about tax evasion penalties, possibility of a prison sentence for crimes, fines & other tax return laws & punishment
California State Taxes and Federal Regulations: Conflicts Between Federal and California Law
If your business conducts sales to other states, you need to be aware of how California sales tax rules apply to you — especially if you sell online.
California Use Tax Planning for Aircraft and Marine Vessels
As with most other property, the purchase and use of aircraft within California is subject to sales and use tax, but certain aircraft uses and purchases may be tax-exempt.
How to Apply Payroll Taxes for Multistate Employees
Do you have employees in states outside of California? We can help you fulfill the payroll tax requirements for multistate commerce.
California Sales Tax and Leasing Transactions
Did you know what some leases in California may incur sales tax? We will explain what type of leases may be taxed by the state.
Industry Specific California Tax Issues for Out-of-State Companies
Do you want to do business in California but are not located there? Certain types of out-of-state businesses may be subject to California sales and use tax.
State Income and Payroll Tax Considerations in Multistate Tax Planning
Does your business have employees working in other states? If you do, make sure you are abiding by each state’s payroll tax regulations. Learn more.
Is Labor Taxable in California?
The labor that you are using in your business may be taxable. How do you know? Here some pointers from an experienced tax attorney.
How Does Drop Shipping Affect Multistate Taxation?
Drop shipping may be convenient for your business, but it can quickly turn into a multistate tax nightmare. Find out how to save yourself millions.
Am I Eligible for California’s Voluntary Disclosure Programs?
Do you qualify for the CDFTA Voluntary Compliance Program? If your business has not been paying sales tax, help is on the way.
California Multistate Tax Implications for Amazon Sellers
Does your company sell on Amazon? You still are responsible for California sales tax. Find out how to comply.
9 Frequently Asked Questions About Multistate Taxation [Questions + Answers]
A top tax attorney answers your FAQs about e-commerce and multistate sales tax.
What to Do If You Are an Out of State Business and Audited by California
Facing a California sales tax audit? Do not panic. A top tax attorney offers advice on how to respond to a CDTFA notice.
How to Determine Your Tax Compliance With California
If you conduct business across state lines, you may still owe California sales tax. Find out how to comply before it is too late.
What Is the Tax Crime of Omission?
What is the tax crime of omission, and what steps do I need to take if I have been charged with omission of taxes?
What is the Omnibus Clause?
How can fraud, corruption, threats, and interference trigger the Omnibus Clause, creating liability and penalties for a taxpayer?
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The Audit Process Step by Step
Here's what happens from the moment you receive an audit notice to resolution:
- Notice received — The IRS sends a letter explaining what they're examining and what documentation they need
- Power of Attorney filed — We sign Form 2848, which means the IRS talks to us, not you
- Document review — We review every document before anything goes to the IRS. We provide exactly what's needed — nothing more
- Examination — The IRS reviews your records. For office and field audits, we attend all meetings in your place
- Proposed adjustments — If the IRS wants to make changes, they issue a written proposal. We review it line by line
- Negotiation or appeal — We challenge anything we disagree with. If we can't resolve it at the exam level, we take it to appeals
- Resolution — Case closed. We make sure you understand the outcome and what it means going forward
Why You Need Professional Representation
Here's the reality: anything you say to the IRS can be used against you. Even an innocent statement can be misinterpreted, taken out of context, or used to expand the scope of your audit.
Your CPA probably filed your return. That's great. But filing a return and defending one are two completely different skills. You wouldn't send your dentist to perform heart surgery — the same logic applies.
A qualified tax attorney knows IRS procedures inside and out, understands the legal standards the IRS must meet, and knows exactly how to position your case for the best possible outcome.
Appeals & Next Steps
If you disagree with the audit results, you have the right to appeal. The IRS Office of Appeals is independent from the examination division, and they settle the majority of cases they hear.
We've won over 100 appeals by building cases that are thoroughly documented and legally sound. The key is presenting a clear, well-organized argument that makes it easier for the appeals officer to rule in your favor.
If appeals doesn't resolve it, the next step is Tax Court. We're prepared for that too, but in our experience, most cases settle well before they get to trial.
How to Prevent Future Audits
Once your audit is resolved, the last thing you want is another one. Here's what we recommend to minimize your risk:
- Keep meticulous records — especially for deductions and business expenses
- Report all income — even if you didn't receive a 1099
- File on time, every time
- Use actual calculated figures rather than round numbers — while not a major audit trigger on its own, it's a best practice that signals accuracy in your records
- Work with a qualified tax professional who understands your situation
- Consider a proactive tax strategy engagement to optimize your structure and reduce risk
Want to make sure this doesn't happen again? After resolving your audit, we can help restructure your taxes to minimize future risk. It's the other side of what we do — and it's just as important as the defense. Learn about our tax strategies →
