Acct. never filed my sales tax for my online business for 2yrs what do you do with all these lates fee.

Question

So what steps should be taken. I know you must file and pay sales tax. But there will be outstanding late fees. could amout to thousands. what are my options. Is my accountant at fault, can they waive any of these fees. thank you.

Answer 1

One, you probably don't have an accountant, CPA or an enrolled agent.  Tax preparers generally aren't required to have training or a license.

Two, did you even tell your preparer, by the way, I'm buying items for resale and shipping them to people all over the state?  If yes, you are both idiots for not realizing that sales tax is due based on the location of the buyer.  (You for being someone who normally pays sales tax.)

Three, you are legally liable for the tax, penalty and interest.  The preparer *might* cover the penalties, but probably not.

Answer 2

You are responsible for your agents actions.  You will have to pay up.  If you can get some damages from you account, that is great but the tax agencies don't care.

Answer 3

YOU are supposed to file YOUR taxes. Your accountant should have sent them to you to sign and mail.  

Answer 4

If you provided your accountant with adequate information and they failed to do their job --especially, if you have a written agreement that spells out their duties-- you might be able to recover through civil court. If it's a CPA, enrolled agent...they usually cover for THEIR mistakes and pay you back. But it sounds like you didn't have a good accountant if at all... So you're screwed buddy. And the Tax Authorities don't care if you or your accountant made a mistake...

Answer 5

First of all, YOU are responsible for all your taxes. As per how much you have to pay in taxes and fees depends on the state that you live in and how much you made. Go contact your CPA, tax preparer, local Liberty Tax, etc and ask them what that would be. Most will consult for free if you agree to file w/ them.