If I have never filed, how many returns do I need to file to keep the IRS happy?

October 2, 2009
Written by: steve

How many tax returns should I file if I have not filed in years?  This varies on a case by case basis and the majority of time you will get different answers depending on who you ask. The type of case you have has a lot to do with the answer. In some cases, the IRS will ask for 7 years because they keep their income sources for 7 years on their own internal systems. It is easy to pull up and they can send their source report to you within days. In other cases they may ask for 3 to 6 years. A lot of this also has to do with the asset base of the taxpayer.  The IRS is trying to determine how much they can collect based on the assets you have. So if it behooves the IRS to go back 7 years because of collection potential, they will go back that far.
So, it is a case by case basis.  A professional should be involved with helping you make these decisions.  It should be known that if there is criminal activity, these rules do not apply.

Filed Under: Tax Help | Uncategorized
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