A
Slip of the Lip May Bring on a Tax Audit
April 29, 2002Many
taxpayers have learned, to their dismay, that it generally
isn't wise to talk carelessly about their taxes —
especially about sensitive areas. Why? Because the wrong
person overheard their careless talk and "turned
informer," either for revenge or in the hope of an
"informer's reward."
An
informer's "tip" to the IRS will often trigger a
tax audit. Even though the taxpayer has done nothing
improper, he or she may have to suffer through the audit.
Not only is this time-consuming, it can also result in
additional taxes due to the discovery of an innocent error
on the return or the disallowance of a marginal deduction.
TIP:
Most informers are disgruntled employees and former
spouses or lovers.
|
