Understanding Tax Terms: Structuring | Payroll Services New Jersey

By Author: Leon A. Elwell
Total Articles: 63
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If someone manipulates cash transactions to avoid required bank reporting to the Treasury Department, they are using the technique of structuring their transactions. Knowing what is reported and the power given to the IRS to seize related assets can be important.

Background

To identify questionable illegal transactions, financial institutions are required to report any monetary amounts over $10,000 to the Treasury Department. If someone knowingly structures their transactions to avoid this reporting, the Bank Secrecy Act allows the IRS to legally seize these assets. The old rules provide broad discretion in this area and many innocent taxpayers not only had assets frozen but found it virtually impossible to get their funds returned to them.

Example: Vocatura’s Bakery in Norwich, CT did most of their bakery trade in cash. To help their local banker not have to fill out required federal forms when they deposited $10,000 or more, they tried to make lower deposits. One day the IRS showed up at their business and seized over $65,000 of their deposits suspecting illegal activity through use of this structuring ...
... activity. Using civil forfeiture rules, the IRS permanently seized this small business’ assets. Three years and lots of legal fighting later, the business finally got their money back. Here is a link to their story; IRS Returns Bakery’s Money After 3 Years.

What you should know

Be aware of the rule. As more small businesses try to avoid the high charges associated with credit cards, they must also be aware of the Bank Secrecy Act rules. Establish a good relationship with your banker and have them understand your business to help create a potential ally if needed. Do not knowingly try to avoid the $10,000 reporting rule.

Consistent numbers. Create a regular routine of sales deposits. Do not save up deposits and then deposit similar amounts. This could raise red flags.

The rules are changing. In a recent change, the IRS will still pursue structuring violations, but will try to more closely align action taken with knowledge of criminal activity. The government must show that the taxpayer knows of the rules and knowingly structures their transactions to avoid the reporting.

There are bad guys. Money laundering is a big problem. Whether it be drug money, terrorist fund raising, bootlegging or other illegal activity, excess cash deposits will raise suspicions. So,while the IRS uses their tools to catch these crooks, they are making an active attempt to keep innocent taxpayers out of their net.

If you need further clarification or have questions about structuring transactions, we’d be happy to help. Don’t hesitate to schedule time with our team today: https://www.bas-pc.com/appointment-center/

Business Accounting Systems, P.C., is a South Jersey Public Accounting Firm located in West Deptford, New Jersey that has been providing excellence in servicing the accounting, payroll, and tax needs of independently owned small businesses throughout the Tri-State area. For More Info : Visit Here : https://www.bas-pc.com/