For those of us inclined to the proverbial ‘head-bury’ strategy with Big Brother, it is best to understand the civil penalties assessed when IRS systems catch up – as measured in tangible $$ out the pocket. For the brave of heart, navigating the shoals of IRS Penalties can be intimidating to comprehend but it is far from rocket science.

Understanding IRS civil penalties starts with picking up Part 20.1 of the Internal Revenue Manual (IRM).  Here you will find guidance on all areas of civil penalties imposed by the Internal Revenue Code (IRC).

Criminal penalty provisions are contained in IRM 9.1.3 and beyond the scope of this post. Read More