When the IRS prosecutes, tax evasion is not always the only charge (if it's charged at all). In fact, there are cases where the person who has been found guilty of one crime may also be charged with violating other laws.
The Justice Department asks the prosecutor to choose a "lead charge" in all the cases they present. Here's a list of some of the "lead charges" that are often brought to court in IRS cases:
1. Conspiracy to Defraud the U.S.
Entering into an agreement or conspiracy with another to cheat the government out of taxes deceitfully. The penalty – up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine.
2. Fraud & False Statements
Knowingly covering up a fact by using a trick, scheme or false writing or document. The penalty – up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine.
3. Willful Failure-To-File
The willful failure to file the estimated tax at the time required by law. The penalty: up to one year in prison and/or up to $25,000 in fines ($100,000 in the case of a corporation).
Do You See Yourself In Any of These Stories?
All of these are true stories, taken from official Government Records. When you read this, do you see yourself in any of the actions that these people have taken?
A couple puts their money in a "trust" to avoid detection...a business owner tries to hide his cash through paper corporations and off-shore accounts...a business owner simply ignores the warnings of his own payroll service...
Do you have something in your past that's going to come back and haunt you? Is the IRS going to come after you?
Don't spend your life wondering if you're going to be the next story posted on the IRS' website and/or published on the front page of your local paper.
Make it right while you still have the time...
