TAX UPDATES

Religious freedom is a fundamental right protected by law, but what happens when religious practices involve substances that the law typically prohibits? The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) offers a powerful defense for individuals whose sincerely held religious beliefs lead them to use entheogens such as mushrooms or MDMA. This protection has been tested and upheld in recent cases, including a notable decision in Utah’s Federal District Court. Understanding RFRA and

Charitable giving is a generous act that benefits society and often provides tax advantages. Yet, when donations involve large sums or unusual assets, they can attract scrutiny from tax authorities. Some taxpayers face audits that escalate into criminal investigations, especially when the donations involve inflated appraisals or complex transactions. If you have been audited for charitable contributions, understanding the risks and knowing how to protect yourself is critical.

Cross-border tax disputes can quickly become complex, especially when they involve the US-Canada Tax Treaty. Taxpayers caught in these disputes often face challenges understanding how tax rules apply across borders and how international agreements affect their tax obligations. S Mark Barnes, a seasoned attorney with experience in the IRS International Cadre, has worked extensively on US-Canada Tax Treaty cases and other international tax treaty issues involving countries like

Tax shelter schemes often promise huge savings, but many turn out to be costly traps. After thirty years as an IRS attorney handling tax shelter cases, it’s clear that these offers are usually scams designed to exploit taxpayers. If you have been approached by promoters selling tax shelters or have already become involved, understanding the risks and knowing where to turn for help is crucial. Tax documents and calculator on desk How Tax Shelter Promoters Operate Promoters of

Facing tax problems can feel like stepping into a maze without a map. The complex rules, confusing language, and intimidating IRS procedures often leave people overwhelmed and unsure of their next move. Many assume the IRS agent always knows best and agree to terms without fully understanding their rights or options. This confusion can lead to costly mistakes or missed opportunities for resolution. That is why having a knowledgeable guide is essential. S. Mark Barnes brings o

Facing a tax audit, civil tax litigation, or criminal prosecution can be overwhelming. Many taxpayers experience intense stress and anxiety during these times, yet the emotional side of tax problems often goes unaddressed. Lawyers typically focus on the legal aspects but may overlook the psychological pain their clients endure. Recognizing this gap, our firms now work closely with therapists to help clients manage the emotional burden alongside the legal challenges. Understan

Criminal tax cases often confuse defendants, judges, and juries because they involve complex legal standards that differ from typical crimes. Unlike many offenses, being guilty of a criminal tax violation requires more than just owing taxes. The key factor is intent—you must have known about your legal duty to report or pay taxes and then deliberately chose not to comply. This post explains the proper standard of intent in criminal tax cases, common misunderstandings, and how

Every business owner wants to reduce their tax burden while investing in growth. One powerful tool that often goes underused is bonus depreciation. This special tax provision allows businesses to immediately expense the cost of qualifying assets instead of spreading the deduction over many years. Understanding how to use bonus depreciation can lead to significant tax savings and improve your company’s cash flow. This post explains what bonus depreciation is, how it works, and

Unexpected tax bills can hit successful business owners hard. One day, everything seems on track; the next, an accountant informs them of a large tax amount due—sometimes hundreds or thousands of dollars—that they did not plan for. Without the cash on hand, this can cause stress and disrupt business operations. Understanding how to handle these surprises and prevent them in the future is essential for maintaining financial stability. Business owner reviewing unexpected tax bi

Purchasing a vehicle through a Montana LLC has become a popular strategy for some Utah residents aiming to avoid paying Utah sales tax. However, the Utah State Tax Commission has increased its focus on this practice. Recently, the Commission has started sending letters to taxpayers claiming they owe sales tax before conducting a formal audit. This approach has raised concerns and confusion among vehicle owners. If you find yourself in this situation, understanding the process

Cross-border tax matters between the United States and Canada can quickly become complex. Many individuals and businesses face challenges understanding their tax obligations, avoiding double taxation, and complying with both countries’ rules. These issues often lead to costly mistakes or missed opportunities for tax savings. Our firm specializes in guiding clients through these common tax concerns, helping them stay compliant and optimize their tax positions. During his thirt