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Decoding the Implications of a Target Letter

Decoding the Implications of a Target Letter

Receiving a target letter from the IRS can be an unsettling experience. This type of letter indicates that you are under investigation for possible criminal tax violations. Understanding what a target letter means and knowing how to respond can help you navigate this difficult situation.

What is a Target Letter?

A target letter, sometimes called a subject letter, is sent by the IRS to notify you that you are the target of a criminal tax investigation (source: Reddit). This means the IRS has evidence suggesting you may have committed tax crimes or violations of tax law.

Common reasons for receiving a target letter include (source: Avvo):

  • Underreporting income on your tax returns
  • Hiding offshore bank accounts or assets
  • Engaging in abusive tax shelters or schemes
  • Committing tax fraud or evasion

A target letter does not necessarily mean you will be criminally prosecuted. However, it does indicate the IRS has focused its investigation specifically on you.

What Should You Do After Receiving a Target Letter?

If you receive a target letter, you should not ignore it (sources: Reddit, Quora). Here are some steps to take:

  1. Contact a criminal tax defense attorney immediately. An experienced lawyer can help protect your rights and guide you through the process (source: LawInfo).
  2. Do NOT speak to IRS agents without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you (source: FindLaw).
  3. Begin gathering and preserving financial records. Your lawyer can request documents from the IRS case file through the discovery process (source: Avvo).
  4. Consider if civil settlement is an option. In some cases, reaching a monetary settlement with the IRS can resolve a criminal tax investigation (source: Quora).

What Are the Consequences of a Target Letter?

The implications of receiving a target letter include:

  • Possible criminal charges – Tax crimes like tax evasion or filing a fraudulent return can result in fines up to $100,000 and imprisonment up to 5 years per offense (source: Reddit).
  • Asset seizures – The IRS can seize property and assets suspected of being involved in illegal tax activities (source: Quora).
  • Civil fines and penalties – In addition to criminal penalties, you may face substantial civil fines equal to up to 75% of the unpaid tax (source: Avvo).

However, hiring an experienced criminal tax attorney affords the best chance to mitigate these consequences and even avoid prosecution in some circumstances (source: LawInfo).

Christine Twomey
Christine Twomey
2024-03-21
Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.
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Brendan huisman
2024-03-18
Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!
Guerline Menard
Guerline Menard
2024-03-18
Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️
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Keisha Parris
2024-03-15
Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.
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Taïko Beauty
2024-03-15
I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!
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2024-03-12
Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.
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2024-03-12
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Bee L
Bee L
2024-02-28
Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.
divesh patel
divesh patel
2024-02-24
I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Strategies for Responding to a Target Letter

Upon receiving a target letter, a swift, strategic response guided by counsel can help control damage. Possible responses include (sources: Reddit, FindLaw):

  • Submitting a “noisy” response to buy time and access to the IRS’ evidence files.
  • Presenting evidence of reasonable reliance on a tax advisor’s counsel.
  • Arguing unconstitutional IRS procedures were used to obtain evidence.
  • Negotiating a favorable plea deal or settlement agreement pre-indictment.

An attorney experienced with the IRS can advise if such responses may apply in your case.

Takeaways for Handling a Target Letter

Receiving a target letter from the IRS is serious, but strategic action can help mitigate risks (source: Quora). Key takeaways include:

  • Promptly contact a criminal tax defense lawyer for advice and representation.
  • Do not communicate directly with IRS agents when under criminal investigation.
  • Explore settlement options your lawyer may be able to negotiate.
  • Be proactive in responding to the letter rather than ignoring it.

With an experienced legal guide, you can decode the implications of an IRS target letter and map out an appropriate response. This affords the best opportunity to resolve the tax investigation favorably.

Resources

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