Determining which kind of tax help you need can be a tricky task. But oftentimes, hiring a tax attorney is the best way to ensure nothing goes amiss during the filing process.
In this post, I will share with you 5 popular scenarios when clients most likely need to hire a tax attorney to get their situation confidently resolved.
1. You Live Abroad
If you are a U.S. citizen or green card holder who lives abroad, you are still required to file your U.S. taxes. With the help of a tax attorney you will be able to obtain the necessary information, and guidance you need to arrange all your matters with the IRS in a legal and confident way.
If you decide to hire a non-lawyer tax professional to do your taxes abroad instead, and then face problems with the IRS, this person could become a witness for the IRS against you or be required to turn over your records and documents.
This would not be the case if an attorney is hired and consulted because the information is protected by the client-attorney privilege.
2. You’re Facing an Audit
If you find out that the IRS wants to audit you or your business, you should hire a tax attorney immediately. The best tax attorneys can help you in the preparation of paperwork and records so that you don't get into problems during the the audit for technicalities and/or lack of proof.
Another additional benefit in this situation, is that although not all audits end up in tax court, a tax attorney can help you through the legal process if it becomes necessary.
3. You’re Selling -or Buying- A Business
During the process of selling or buying a business, having a tax attorney by your side will help you navigate the complex aspects of the Business tax code, which is almost always more complicated than individual tax code. Having a good tax attorney will ensure that your company transactions are handled properly to protect your livelihood and financial future.
4. You’re Leaving Money to An Heir
Whenever transfers of title are occurring and important amounts of money are being passed, is better to at least consult with a tax attorney. This step is a great way to ensure that your intentions are respected, and executed, and that your money ends up where you intend so that none of your family members end up with the IRS knocking at their doors.
5. You Owe An Extensive Amount of Money in Taxes
Owing taxes can get you, personally, or your business in serious legal trouble, even if the issue was a genuine mistake and not a true tax evasion. If you find yourself in the position of owing a large sum of money in taxes, you should seek the help of a tax attorney.
One of the many benefits of having a lawyer by your side is that a lawyer will be able to help you create a manageable repayment agreement with the IRS.
If any of these situations sound like yours, it is best to contact a tax attorney that will help you navigate paperwork, tax law, and the expectations of the IRS.
At Sabalier Law I offer my legal services with specialization on international taxation for U.S. expats who live or have lived abroad and are seeking to have their finances in order with the IRS.
Contact me today for a legal consultation to discuss your options and the services I will be able to provide to help you.
