Author Archives: Russ

Browns’ Convictions Upheld

Posted on January 20, 2012 by Russ

Tax protesters Edward and Elaine Brown were convicted in 2007 of tax evasion. They were sentenced to spend some time at ClubFed. Instead of reporting to prison, they decided to barricade themselves in their New Hampshire home. After a stand-off … Continue reading →

Posted in Tax Evasion | 1 Comment

It Pays to Read the Lease

Posted on January 19, 2012 by Russ

Today the Tax Court looked at whether a rental was passive or active. But there was a major difference from most such cases: The taxpayer claimed his lease was passive while the IRS thought it was not passive. Most of … Continue reading →

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A Good Way to Get to ClubFed: Finance Porn Distribution and Don’t Report the Income

Posted on January 18, 2012 by Russ

If you want to paint a recipe for heading to ClubFed, Carolynne Tilga of Santa Fe, New Mexico couldn’t do it any better. First, begin by investing in a business that’s likely illegal: Distributing pornography over the Internet. Yes, the … Continue reading →

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Illinois Mayor Sentenced for Not Filing Tax Returns

Posted on January 18, 2012 by Russ

Joseph Cook has been the mayor of Channahon, Illinois since 2003 (Channahon is southwest of Chicago). Given Illinois politics, he has likely helped his reelection campaign by admitting he committed a crime. He was sentenced yesterday to two years probation … Continue reading →

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Ignoring Tax Advice and then Suing the Attorney who Gave the Advice Isn’t Brilliant

Posted on January 16, 2012 by Russ

Let’s assume you talk to your attorney, and he advises you that you should create a reserve fund for taxes. Usually, it’s a good idea to listen to your attorney. If you don’t like his opinion, perhaps get a second … Continue reading →

Posted in Florida, Gambling | Tagged , | 2 Comments

The Black Hole Continues: California Faces an $8 – $21 Billion Deficit

Posted on January 15, 2012 by Russ

When I read one report stating that California is looking at an $8 billion deficit (that’s Governor Brown’s projection), I was quite happy I’m now a resident of Nevada. And then I read Chriss Street’s report that says the deficit … Continue reading →

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January Tax Deadlines: Estimated Payments on Tuesday

Posted on January 15, 2012 by Russ

The first of the January deadlines is upon us. Estimated tax payments (Form 1040-ES) are due by Tuesday, January 17th. That’s a postmark deadline. As always, I strongly recommend certified mail, return receipt requested.

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I’m Shocked that Another Adult Entertainment Exec Cheated On His Taxes

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Russ

I’m just shocked, shocked mind you, to find out that yet another individual in the adult entertainment industry didn’t tell the truth on his tax return. Well, not really as there might just be a pattern here…. From my old … Continue reading →

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The IRS Gives Helpful Tips for Choosing a Tax Professional

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Russ

The IRS, as we previously noted, now has a YouTube channel. Here’s their latest video on choosing a tax professional: You can also read their suggestions in this article:: Check the person’s qualifications. Ask if the preparer is affiliated with … Continue reading →

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We’re Off With a Bang: It’s the Politician Arrest of the Week!

Posted on January 5, 2012 by Russ

There’s nothing like starting 2012 on the right foot. Let’s head to our nation’s capital where City Councilman Harry Thomas, Jr. has something more to worry about than his reelection campaign. In December, the FBI & IRS raided Mr. Thomas’ … Continue reading →

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