Tax Attorney Wisconsin: When Should You Hire One?

Hiring a tax attorney in Wisconsin can have several benefits. Tax attorneys have a deep understanding of federal and state tax laws, regulations, and procedures. They can provide you with expert guidance and advice on tax issues related to your business or personal finances. If you are facing an audit or tax dispute, a tax attorney can represent you in negotiations with the IRS or state tax agencies. They can handle all communication on your behalf and work to protect your rights and interests. Tax attorneys can help you avoid or minimize penalties and fines associated with tax issues. They can review your tax returns and identify any potential issues or discrepancies, which can help you avoid penalties and fines.

How To Choose A Good Tax Attorney in Wisconsin

Choosing a good tax attorney in Wisconsin can be a daunting task, but here are some tips that can help you make an informed decision:

• Look for experience: It is essential to choose a tax attorney who has experience in handling tax-related matters. Look for a tax attorney who has been practicing tax law for a significant period and has handled cases similar to yours.
• Check for credentials: Verify the attorney’s credentials, such as their law school, bar admission, and any specialized certifications or training in tax law.
• Check for reputation: Look for online reviews, testimonials, or referrals from people you trust to get an idea of the attorney’s reputation. You can also check with the state bar association to ensure there are no disciplinary actions against the attorney.
• Evaluate communication skills: Choose a tax attorney who communicates clearly and effectively. They should be able to explain complex tax issues in simple terms, and be responsive to your questions and concerns.
• Discuss fees: Discuss the attorney’s fees upfront and make sure you understand how they charge for their services. Some attorneys charge an hourly rate, while others charge a flat fee. Make sure you know what you will be paying for and how much it will cost.
• Trust your instincts: Ultimately, choose an attorney you feel comfortable working with and trust to handle your tax matters effectively.

Seeking A Tax Attorney In Your City?

The five biggest cities in Wisconsin, ranked by population, are:

• Milwaukee – with a population of approximately 590,000 people, it is the largest city in Wisconsin and is known for its brewing heritage, museums, and festivals.
• Madison – the state capital, with a population of around 270,000 people, known for its lively cultural scene, beautiful lakes, and world-class university.
• Green Bay – with a population of around 105,000 people, it is the home of the Green Bay Packers football team, and also offers visitors opportunities to explore nature, history, and culture.
• Kenosha – located on the shore of Lake Michigan, with a population of around 100,000 people, it offers visitors a vibrant downtown, numerous parks, and a lively arts scene.
• Racine – with a population of around 77,000 people, it is known for its historic architecture, beautiful lakefront, and vibrant arts and cultural events.

Common Fees For Tax Attorneys in Wisconsin

The fees for tax attorneys in Wisconsin can vary depending on several factors, including the attorney’s experience, the complexity of the case, and the location of the attorney. Some common fees for tax attorneys in Wisconsin are:

• Hourly rate: Many tax attorneys charge an hourly rate, which can range from $200 to $500 or more per hour, depending on the attorney’s experience and reputation.
• Flat fee: Some tax attorneys may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as preparing and filing tax returns, or representing you in an audit or tax dispute.
• Contingency fee: In some cases, tax attorneys may work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they are successful in resolving your tax issue. The contingency fee is typically a percentage of the amount you save on your taxes.
• Retainer fee: A retainer fee is an upfront payment made to the attorney to secure their services. The retainer fee is typically applied toward the total cost of the attorney’s services.

Common Individual Tax Issues

​​Here are some common individual tax issues that people in Wisconsin and other states may face:

• Filing Late or Failure to File: Failing to file tax returns on time or not filing them at all can result in significant penalties and interest charges.
• Underpayment or Overpayment of Taxes: If an individual does not have enough taxes withheld from their paycheck, they may owe additional taxes at the end of the year. On the other hand, if they have too much withheld, they may be entitled to a refund.
• Claiming Inaccurate Deductions: Claiming inaccurate deductions or failing to report all income can lead to tax problems.
• Tax Audits: The IRS may select an individual for an audit to verify their tax return’s accuracy.
• Failure to Report Foreign Income or Assets: Individuals who have income or assets in foreign countries must report them to the IRS.
• Identity Theft: Identity theft can result in someone else filing a fraudulent tax return in the individual’s name, causing significant financial and legal problems.
• Retirement Plan Taxes: Taxes on retirement plan distributions, contributions, and withdrawals can be complex and confusing.

Corporate Tax Issues

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

• Failing to Pay or Underpayment of Taxes: Corporations may face penalties and interest charges for failing to pay their taxes on time or underpaying them.
• Tax Audits: The IRS may select a corporation for an audit to verify its tax return’s accuracy.
• Failure to Properly Classify Employees: Misclassifying employees as independent contractors can lead to tax issues, including unpaid employment taxes, penalties, and interest charges.
• Transfer Pricing Issues: Corporations with international operations may face transfer pricing issues if they do not properly allocate income and expenses between related entities.
• State and Local Tax Issues: Corporations may also face state and local tax issues related to sales tax, property tax, and other taxes.
• Noncompliance with Tax Laws: Corporations must comply with a complex web of tax laws and regulations, and failure to do so can lead to significant tax liabilities and legal problems.

Common Tax Resolutions

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

• Paying taxes owed in full: If you owe taxes, paying them in full by the deadline can help you avoid interest and penalties.
• Requesting an installment agreement: If you can’t pay your taxes in full, you may be able to set up a payment plan with the IRS. This allows you to pay your tax debt over time, rather than in one lump sum.
• Requesting an Offer in Compromise: This is an agreement between you and the IRS to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount you owe. It’s typically only granted if you can’t pay your tax debt in full, or if paying it would cause financial hardship.
• Filing for an extension: If you need more time to file your tax return, you can request an extension. This gives you an extra six months to file your return, but you’ll still need to pay any taxes owed by the original deadline.
• Amending a tax return: If you made a mistake on your tax return, you can file an amended return to correct it. This can help you avoid penalties and interest if the mistake resulted in you owing more taxes.
• Requesting penalty relief: If you were unable to pay your taxes on time due to circumstances beyond your control, you may be able to request penalty relief. This can help you avoid additional penalties and interest.

Risks of Using a Tax Attorney in Wisconsin

While there are many benefits to using a tax attorney in Wisconsin, there are also some potential risks that you should be aware of. Here are some potential risks to consider:

• Cost: Tax attorneys can be expensive, and their fees can add up quickly. You should make sure you understand the fees and billing arrangements before you hire a tax attorney.
• No guarantee of results: While a tax attorney can provide guidance and advice, there is no guarantee that their services will result in a favorable outcome.
• Potential for conflicts of interest: If the tax attorney you hire also represents other clients with conflicting interests, there is a risk that their loyalty may be divided.
• Limited scope of services: Some tax attorneys may have limited experience or knowledge in certain areas of tax law, which could limit their ability to provide effective representation.
• Risk of legal action: In some cases, hiring a tax attorney may actually increase your risk of legal action if the attorney provides bad advice or fails to properly represent your interests.

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

Using an experienced tax relief firm can offer many benefits, including:

• Expertise in tax law: An experienced tax relief firm will have a deep understanding of tax law and can help you navigate complex tax issues, ensuring that you’re in compliance with all relevant tax laws and regulations.
• Reduced stress and anxiety: Dealing with tax issues can be stressful and overwhelming. An experienced tax relief firm can handle much of the work for you, reducing your stress and anxiety.
• Improved communication with the IRS: A tax relief firm can act as an intermediary between you and the IRS, improving communication and helping to resolve any disputes or issues that may arise.
• Greater likelihood of a favorable outcome: An experienced tax relief firm can provide you with the best possible chance of achieving a favorable outcome in your tax case, whether that means reducing your tax debt, negotiating a payment plan, or securing penalty relief.
• Time savings: Handling tax issues can be time-consuming, and it may take you away from other important activities, such as running your business or spending time with your family. An experienced tax relief firm can take care of many of the time-consuming aspects of tax resolution, allowing you to focus on other priorities.
• Reduced risk of mistakes: Tax laws and regulations are complex and constantly changing. An experienced tax relief firm can help ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time, reducing the risk of mistakes that could lead to penalties or legal action.

CuraDebt Tax Is At Your Service

If you are a resident of Wisconsin 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