U.S. taxpayers who own qualifying offshore bank accounts and other foreign financial assets need to report these assets to the IRS annually. Technically, the deadline to report these “specified foreign financial assets” is April 15. However, all taxpayers receive an automatic extension to October 15.

Crowdfunding platforms have become popular tools for businesses to launch new products and services. Using these platforms allows businesses to secure funding without going into debt or giving up shares to venture capitalists, and it allows them to promote their new offerings in ways not available through other means.

With the gig economy bolstered by the COVID-19 pandemic and wages skyrocketing as businesses compete for qualified employees, many businesses are finding themselves increasingly reliant on independent contractors. While hiring employee contractors offers a variety of benefits—including tax benefits—businesses need to ensure that their “nonemployee” compensation practices are not putting them at risk for IRS penalties.

The employee retention credit was available to qualifying businesses in 2020 and 2021 to help offset the costs of keeping employees on staff during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The rules and restrictions governing the employee retention credit changed over time, and, as a result, it is likely that some businesses (if not many businesses) claimed the credit improperly.

As we pass the midway point of 2022, now is a good time for U.S. taxpayers to make sure they are in a good position to avoid an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) audit in 2023. While most taxpayers only think about their obligations to the IRS once a year, planning and strategizing throughout the year can be critical for avoiding unnecessary tax liability and IRS scrutiny. Here are some insights from Virginia IRS defense attorney Kevin E. Thorn, Managing Partner of Thorn Law Group.