Tax Attorney South Dakota: When Do You Need To Use One?

Tax attorneys are experts in tax law and can provide you with specialized knowledge and advice on complex tax issues. They can help you navigate the complex tax code, interpret tax laws, and identify tax planning opportunities that you might not be aware of. Tax attorneys can represent you in tax-related legal disputes, including tax audits, tax collection disputes, and tax litigation. They can also negotiate with the IRS on your behalf and help you reach a settlement. A tax attorney can protect you from potential legal problems that may arise from your tax situation. They can advise you on how to avoid tax penalties and ensure that you comply with all tax laws and regulations.

How To Choose A Good Tax Attorney in South Dakota

Choosing a good tax attorney in South Dakota is important when dealing with tax-related issues. Here are some tips to help you choose a good tax attorney:

• Look for experience: Look for a tax attorney who has experience in handling cases similar to yours. Ask about their experience in tax law and their success rate in similar cases.
• Check for credentials: Check the attorney’s credentials and make sure they are licensed to practice law in South Dakota. You can check with the South Dakota State Bar Association to verify their license and credentials.
• Check for reviews: Look for reviews or testimonials from other clients who have worked with the attorney. This will give you an idea of their level of service and success.
• Look for specialization: Look for a tax attorney who specializes in tax law, rather than a general practitioner. A specialized tax attorney will have more knowledge and experience in tax-related issues.
• Meet with the attorney: Schedule a consultation with the attorney to discuss your case and ask any questions you may have. This will give you an idea of their communication style and whether they are a good fit for your needs.
• Consider their fees: Discuss the attorney’s fees and make sure they are transparent about their billing practices. It is important to know how much their services will cost before you hire them.

Seeking A Tax Attorney In Your City?

Here are the five largest cities in South Dakota, based on population according to the United States Census Bureau (2020):

• Sioux Falls – Population: 198,844
• Rapid City – Population: 77,503
• Aberdeen – Population: 28,382
• Brookings – Population: 24,545
• Watertown – Population: 22,426

Common Fees For Tax Attorneys in South Dakota

The fees for tax attorneys in South Dakota can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the experience of the attorney, and the amount of work required. Here are some common fee structures for tax attorneys in South Dakota:

• Hourly rates: Many tax attorneys charge by the hour. The hourly rate can range from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the experience of the attorney and the complexity of the case.
• Flat fees: Some tax attorneys may charge a flat fee for certain services, such as preparing and filing a tax return or handling a simple audit. The fee may range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the scope of the work.
• Contingency fees: In some cases, a tax attorney may agree to work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorney will only receive payment if they are successful in obtaining a favorable outcome for the client. The contingency fee is typically a percentage of the amount of money the attorney recovers on behalf of the client.
• Retainer fees: A tax attorney may require a retainer fee upfront to secure their services. The retainer fee is typically a lump sum payment that is applied toward the total fee for the case.

It is important to discuss fees with your tax attorney upfront and to have a clear understanding of their billing practices. Make sure to ask about any additional costs, such as court fees or expenses for expert witnesses, which may be incurred during the course of your case.

Common Individual Tax Issues

Here are some common individual tax issues that taxpayers may face:

• Filing errors: One of the most common tax issues is making errors when filing a tax return, such as miscalculations, typos, or forgetting to include information. These errors can lead to penalties and interest charges from the IRS.
• Late filings: Failing to file a tax return on time can result in penalties and interest charges. It is important to file your taxes on time, even if you are unable to pay the full amount owed.
• Underpayment: Failing to pay the full amount of taxes owed can result in penalties and interest charges. Taxpayers who are unable to pay the full amount should contact the IRS to discuss payment options.
• Audits: Taxpayers may be audited by the IRS for a variety of reasons, including discrepancies in their tax returns, red flags in their deductions, or random selection. It is important to keep accurate records and receipts to support any deductions claimed.
• Identity theft: Taxpayers may fall victim to identity theft, which can result in fraudulent tax returns being filed in their name. Taxpayers should take steps to protect their personal information and report any suspicious activity to the IRS.
• Unreported income: Failing to report all income can result in penalties and interest charges. Taxpayers should make sure to report all income, including income from side jobs or freelance work.
• Dependency issues: Claiming dependents on a tax return can be complex, especially in cases of divorced or separated parents. Taxpayers should make sure they have the correct documentation and are eligible to claim dependents before doing so.

Corporate Tax Issues

Here are some common corporate tax issues that businesses may face:

• Overlapping tax jurisdictions: Corporations that do business in multiple states or countries may face overlapping tax jurisdictions. It is important to understand the tax laws in each jurisdiction and ensure that all taxes are properly paid.
• Incorrect classification of workers: Misclassifying employees as independent contractors can result in penalties and interest charges. Businesses should make sure that workers are properly classified to avoid tax issues.
• Unreported income: Failing to report all income, including income from overseas operations or investments, can result in penalties and interest charges.
• Transfer pricing issues: Corporations with operations in multiple countries may face transfer pricing issues. It is important to ensure that transfer pricing is done at arm’s length to avoid tax issues.
• Tax credits and deductions: Corporations may be eligible for various tax credits and deductions, but claiming them incorrectly can result in penalties and interest charges. It is important to understand the eligibility requirements for each credit and deduction and to keep accurate records.
• Sales tax issues: Corporations that sell products or services may face sales tax issues. It is important to understand the sales tax laws in each state and to properly collect and remit sales tax.
• Tax audits: Corporations may be audited by the IRS for a variety of reasons, including discrepancies in their tax returns or red flags in their deductions. It is important to keep accurate records and receipts to support any deductions claimed.

Common Tax Resolutions

Here are some common tax resolutions that individuals and businesses may pursue:

• Installment agreements: Taxpayers who are unable to pay their taxes in full may be eligible for an installment agreement. This allows them to pay off their taxes in smaller, more manageable payments over time.
• Offer in compromise: Taxpayers who are unable to pay their full tax debt may be able to settle with the IRS for less than the full amount owed through an offer in compromise.
• Penalty abatement: Taxpayers who are facing penalties for late payment or filing may be able to have those penalties abated if they can show reasonable cause for the delay.
• Innocent spouse relief: Spouses who are facing tax debt due to the actions of their partner may be able to seek relief through innocent spouse relief.
• Audit representation: Taxpayers who are facing an IRS audit may benefit from representation by a tax professional. This can help ensure that the audit is handled properly and that the taxpayer’s rights are protected.
• Tax court representation: Taxpayers who are facing tax disputes with the IRS may benefit from representation in tax court. A tax attorney can help present the taxpayer’s case and advocate for their rights.
• Voluntary disclosure: Taxpayers who have unreported income or other tax issues may be able to come forward voluntarily to avoid criminal prosecution and reduce penalties through the IRS’s voluntary disclosure program.

Risks of Using a Tax Attorney in South Dakota

While using a tax attorney in South Dakota can be beneficial for handling complex tax matters, there are also some risks to be aware of. Here are some potential risks of using a tax attorney in South Dakota:

• Cost: Hiring a tax attorney can be expensive, especially if you have ongoing tax issues that require ongoing legal representation. You should be aware of the attorney’s fees and discuss the billing arrangement before hiring the attorney.
• No guarantee of results: While a tax attorney can provide legal advice and representation, there is no guarantee of a successful outcome. It is important to understand the potential risks and outcomes of your tax situation.
• Ethical concerns: There have been instances where tax attorneys have engaged in unethical or fraudulent behavior, such as advising clients to commit tax fraud. It is important to choose a reputable and ethical tax attorney who will uphold professional standards.
• Communication issues: Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings and missed deadlines. It is important to establish clear communication expectations with your tax attorney and ensure that they are responsive to your questions and concerns.
• Limited scope of representation: Tax attorneys may have limitations on the scope of their representation, such as only being able to represent you in a specific matter or before a specific agency. You should clarify the scope of representation with your tax attorney before hiring them.

When Do You Really Need a Tax Attorney?

If you are accused of tax fraud or evasion, it is in your best interest to hire a tax attorney. A tax attorney can represent you in legal proceedings and help you navigate the complex criminal and civil penalties that may apply. If you have a complex estate, it is also recommended to hire a tax attorney. A tax attorney can provide guidance on how to minimize estate taxes and transfer assets to heirs in a tax-efficient manner.

When is a Tax Relief Company Better Than a Tax Attorney?

Tax relief companies and tax attorneys offer different services. Tax relief companies specialize in negotiating with the IRS and states on behalf of taxpayers who owe back taxes, penalties, and interest. These companies often have a team of tax professionals, including enrolled agents and tax preparers, who work to negotiate payment plans or settlements with the IRS. They may also provide assistance with preparing and filing tax returns, obtaining tax transcripts, and addressing other tax-related issues. There are situations where a tax relief company may be more beneficial than a tax attorney. Here are a few examples of  where a tax relief company may be a better option:

• Your tax debt is under $250K: If you owe less than $250K to the IRS, a tax relief company may be a better option than a tax attorney. Tax relief companies can negotiate with the IRS to reduce or eliminate penalties and interest, and set up an affordable payment plan that works for you.
• You need help with tax preparation: Tax relief companies often offer tax preparation services, which can be beneficial for individuals or businesses who need help filing their taxes correctly. This can help you avoid future tax problems and penalties.
• You want to avoid the high cost of a tax attorney: Tax attorneys can be expensive, and their hourly rates can quickly add up. A tax relief company may offer more affordable options, such as a flat fee for their services.

Tax Attorney or Tax Relief Firm: Know Your Options

Benefits of Using an Experienced Tax Relief Firm

There are several benefits of using an experienced tax relief firm for handling your tax matters. Here are some potential benefits:

• Knowledge and expertise: Experienced tax relief firms have extensive knowledge and expertise in tax law and tax relief options. They can provide valuable guidance and advice on how to resolve your tax issues and navigate the complex tax system.
• Negotiation skills: Tax relief firms have the skills and experience to negotiate with the IRS and other tax authorities on your behalf. They can help you obtain a favorable outcome in your tax matter.
• Reduced stress and anxiety: Dealing with tax issues can be stressful and overwhelming. Using a tax relief firm can help reduce stress and anxiety by handling the communication and negotiation with the tax authorities on your behalf.
• Time-saving: Resolving tax issues can be a time-consuming process. Using an experienced tax relief firm can save you time by handling the paperwork, communication, and negotiation on your behalf.
• Increased chances of success: Tax relief firms have a proven track record of successfully resolving tax issues for their clients. They can increase your chances of success in your tax matter.
• Customized solutions: Experienced tax relief firms can provide customized solutions based on your specific tax situation. They can help you identify the best tax relief options and develop a strategy tailored to your needs.

CuraDebt Tax Is At Your Service

If you are a resident of South Dakota who needs help resolving tax debt issues, we are here to help. We have 22 years of experience helping clients with numerous tax related issues. Contact us toll free today for your free consultation. Or submit here online for a free consultation. We will find the best resolution available to you based on your financial situation. 1-877-999-0486