Liability for State and Federal Taxes Defense Lawyer
To most individuals, state or federal taxes can be confusing, resulting in mistakes and disputes. Whether you are under investigation or audit, or you have received notification that you are overdue, it is important to consult with an experienced advocate who can minimize your liabilities and debt. At The Law Offices of Matthew W. Stanley, we have the experience to vigorously protect your rights.
Our Tacoma federal and state tax attorney handles criminal and civil state and federal tax matters. Matt Stanley is experienced in cases involving most kinds of taxes, including the following:
- Income tax: Your "income" includes employment earnings, and business and investment profits. Most states, like California and Oregon, levy an income tax. Our state is one of several that does not have an income tax. Rather, Washington collects a "business and occupation" tax, which is generally a tax on gross business receipts.
- Federal payroll/employment taxes: Businesses with employees must withhold income tax from wages paid to employees, plus the employees' portions of Social Security taxes. Those withheld monies are held in trust for the federal government. Payroll taxes can be complicated and may lead to large penalties. It is important for all employers to ensure accurate returns and payments. Matt can defend you in audits, tax disputes and appeals involving payroll taxes.
- Sales and use taxes: Most states and local jurisdictions tax the sale of goods and other property. The tax rate usually depends on where the sale occurs. In Washington, "use" tax generally applies to the first use of property in the State if the property has not been subject to Washington sales tax. Use tax has the reputation of being the most ignored and violated State tax. The State of Washington treats no tax more zealously than its sales tax, since money collected by sellers from their customers belongs to the State.
- Trust fund assessments: Businesses collect withheld tax and Social Security payments from their employees, as well as sales taxes from customers. These collected taxes do not belong to the business or employer, but rather are held in trust as "trust funds" until paid to the IRS or the state. If the business entity does not pay them over, both the state and the IRS have statutory authority to assess and collect those amounts from responsible persons such as the business owners and officers.
- Estate taxes: When an estate is administered or enters the probate process, it is the duty of the executor or personal representative to ensure that estate and inheritance, "taxes," are paid. Personal representatives and other fiduciaries may risk personal liability for overlooking these taxes, and they would do well to seek the assistance our firm can provide.
Call 253-292-2782 for tax help, or submit a risk-free intake form to our Tacoma, Washington, income tax attorney using our online services.
