Our Legal Blog

Navigate complex IRS regulations and New York tax requirements with clarity and confidence.

May 17, 2026

IRS Tax Help: What to Do When You Have a Tax Problem

For many people, tax season is stressful even when everything is going smoothly. Gathering records, understanding tax forms, checking deductions, and signing a return can feel overwhelming. But ordinary filing stress is very different from having a true tax problem. Once a taxpayer receives an IRS notice, falls behind on tax filings, owes back taxes, or learns that a return may be under examination, the situation becomes more serious.

May 17, 2026

What Triggers a NY Sales Tax Audit? Key Risk Factors

New York sales tax audits are often triggered by specific patterns, such as reporting inconsistencies, industry risk factors, and ongoing compliance issues. If your sales tax filings raise questions at the New York Department of Taxation and Finance (DTF), they may review your filings and schedule an audit.

May 13, 2026

Reasonable Compensation in an S Corporation: IRS Audit Risks and Tax Court Guidance

S corporations are often promoted as a smart way for business owners to reduce self-employment tax, but that tax benefit has an important limit. If a shareholder works in the business, the IRS generally expects that shareholder-employee to receive reasonable compensation before the company makes significant non-wage distributions.

May 2, 2026

Articles

Read the latest on tax strategy

Practical guidance on handling audits, settlements, and compliance matters.

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Audits

8 min read

When the IRS sends an audit letter

Know what to expect and how to prepare your response effectively.

Relief

6 min read

Settling back taxes through an offer

Learn how the IRS compromise program can reduce what you owe.

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Compliance

9 min read

Payroll taxes and your business obligations

Missing deadlines costs money. Here's what you need to track.

Smartphone displaying IRS tax information

Compliance

6 min read

FBAR and foreign account disclosure rules

International accounts require careful attention and proper reporting.

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7 Tips to Stay Out of Trouble with the IRS

Timothy S Hart, the founding partner of the tax law firm of Timothy S. Hart Law Group, P.C. is both a New York Tax Lawyer & Certified Public Accountant. His area of expertise is providing innovative solutions to solve your Internal Revenue Service and New York State tax problems, including tax settlements through the Federal and New York State offer in compromise programs, filing unfiled tax returns, voluntary disclosures, tax audits, and criminal investigations.

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Questions

Find answers to common questions about tax issues and IRS matters

What triggers an IRS audit?

The IRS selects returns for audit based on statistical analysis, matching programs, and specific red flags. High income, business deductions, and charitable contributions can increase scrutiny. Random selection also occurs, though it's less common.

Can I negotiate with the IRS?

Yes. The IRS offers several resolution options including installment agreements, offers in compromise, and currently not collectible status. A tax professional can help you explore which option fits your situation.

How long does an audit take?

Audit timelines vary widely depending on complexity and the type of audit. Simple correspondence audits may take months, while field audits can extend over a year or more.

What is the Fresh Start Program?

The IRS Fresh Start Program helps taxpayers with back taxes resolve their debt through streamlined options. Eligibility depends on the amount owed and your filing history. We can determine if you qualify.

Do I need a tax attorney?

Having representation during an audit or tax dispute protects your rights and improves outcomes. A tax attorney can negotiate on your behalf and handle complex IRS procedures.