7 Common IRS Tax Penalties in Riverside, CA & How You Can Avoid Them

Falling behind on your taxes can come with serious consequences, including hefty fines and penalties. But with the right knowledge and preparation, it is possible to avoid these penalties and keep your finances in order. Here are seven common IRS Tax Penalties that you can face in Riverside, CA and a brief guide on how to avoid them.

7 Common IRS Tax Penalties in Riverside, CA & How You Can Avoid Them

1. Failure to File Penalty:

This penalty is imposed when a taxpayer does not file their tax return by the due date. 

The penalty is 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month or partial month that the return is late, up to a maximum of 25%. 

To avoid this penalty, it is important to file your tax return on time, even if you are unable to pay the taxes owed.

2. Failure to Pay Penalty: 

This penalty is imposed when a taxpayer does not pay the taxes owed by the due date. The penalty is 0.5% of the unpaid taxes for each month or partial month that the payment is late, up to a maximum of 25%. 

To avoid this penalty, it is important to pay as much of the taxes owed as possible by the due date, even if you are unable to pay the full amount.

3. Underpayment of Estimated Tax Penalty: 

This penalty is imposed when a taxpayer does not pay enough of their estimated taxes throughout the year. The penalty is based on the amount of underpayment and the length of time that the underpayment persists. 

To avoid this penalty, it is important to make estimated tax payments throughout the year, based on your income and deductions.

4. Accuracy-Related Penalty: 

This penalty is imposed when a taxpayer makes a mistake or omission on their tax return that results in an underpayment of taxes. The penalty is 20% of the underpayment. 

To avoid this penalty, it is important to double-check your tax return for errors and omissions before filing.

5. Frivolous Return Penalty: 

This penalty is imposed when a taxpayer files a tax return that is frivolous or lacks a legitimate basis. The penalty is $5,000. To avoid this penalty, it is important to only file tax returns with legitimate claims and to consult a tax professional if you are unsure about a claim.

6. Fraud Penalty: 

This penalty is imposed when a taxpayer knowingly and willingly files a false tax return. The penalty is 75% of the underpayment. 

To avoid this penalty, it is important to file truthful and accurate tax returns and to consult a tax professional if you are unsure about a claim.

7. Civil Fraud Penalty: 

This penalty is imposed when a taxpayer files a false tax return and the IRS can prove that the taxpayer intended to defraud the government. The penalty is 75% of the underpayment. To avoid this penalty, it is important to file truthful and accurate tax returns,

In addition to above penalties, the IRS also charges interest on any unpaid taxes. The interest rate is determined by the federal short-term rate and is adjusted quarterly. 

The interest rate can be substantial, and it will continue to accrue until the taxes are paid in full. To avoid this penalty, it is important to pay taxes in full and on time. 

In conclusion, taxes are an important part of our society, but tax penalties can be a significant burden for individuals and businesses. By understanding the tax code and staying current on any changes, as well as staying organized and timely when filing, you can reduce your risk of incurring penalties. 

Additionally, seeking professional help from an accountant or tax attorney can provide valuable guidance in avoiding penalties. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so take the necessary steps to stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.

USA Tax Settlement strives to help taxpayers get out from under their IRS tax debt. Unlike other so called Best Tax Resolution Companies in Riverside, CA that charge outrageous fees and don’t deliver on their promises. USA Tax Settlement employs tax professionals, tax attorneys and IRS enrolled agents so we can provide IRS Tax Debt help in Riverside, CA. Stop stressing over your tax debt and let our IRS Tax experts in Riverside, CA settle your IRS tax debt for a fraction of a cost. USA Tax Settlement can help with various IRS Tax Relief Programs or Tax Debt Forgiveness Programs. If you need IRS Tax Relief in Riverside, CA then call USA Tax Settlement today for a Free Consultation. Remember, having one of the Best Tax Relief companies in Riverside, CA on your side is your best first step.