According to tax officials, there were approximately 66,000 allegedly fraudulent tax returns in Ohio last year. The amount of refunds sought was $278 million. Because of the amount of claimed fraud, the department then created an identity verification quiz.
Unfortunately, the quiz appeared to be anything but simple. The complex nature of some of the questions led to over 40,000 phone calls in a single day and numerous complaints. A failing of the quiz caused many to have to go through a time-consuming process of producing other sorts of identification. According to one legislator, the hassles to taxpayers regarding such requirements may result in rethinking taxpayer requirements.
While legislators try to figure out what to do next, many taxpayers understandably are concerned about tax fraud charges. The penalties for tax fraud are often harsh. Tax filing requirements are already complex. Defending oneself against such claims is equally daunting – especially when one does not understand the nature of the charges to begin with.
Charges of tax fraud or other tax crime matters generally require individual legal representation as every circumstance is different. Those charged with tax fraud are entitled to have their side heard. Tax attorneys are able to sort through complicated sets of laws and facts to demonstrate what actually occurred.