How Should I Handle 5 years of Filing?

[Super Mom]

I posted earlier that I was trying to help a couple at church get their paperwork from a CPA who was paid monthly, did their taxes for 20 years, and hasn't done since 2004! Your responses and advice were wonderful, the couple got their paperwork.

Now, I need new help. They want me to file all of those years taxes and of course we want to avoid any penalties or hassles as much as possible. They have not been threatened or anything yet by the IRS. Should I send a letter of "voluntary disclosure" and all the returns at one time, or what is the best way to handle this?

Any advice, or related experience, who be very much appreciated!!!!!!!!

Thanks!!!!!!!!

[JohnH]

I'd send each return in a separate envelope, without any explanation or info beyond what would have been necessary if it had been filed on time. You might want to use certified mail with return receipt (about $5 per return) just to confirm that the returns were received. Separate envelopes acoid the possibilty of one return getting missed if it accidentally gets stapled to the back of another year's return.

If you attach any explanatory paperwork chances are it will be discarded or ignored. Or worse, it will attract attention which wouldn't have been directed toward the return had it been filed without comment.

If there are balances due, then there will be some penalties & interest assessed. That's when you'd want to trot out the explanatory letters, which will give you enough time to write something that will make them cry.

[thomtax]

I agree with JohnH. We have a preparer in our area that keeps telling people they are getting extensions and never files. I usually do one or two of these each year. On all but one, after receiving the balance due for penalties and interest, have been able to get some, not all, relief.
I agree about not drawing undue attention to the return when filing.

Gosh, do you think there is something wrong with me. I'm agreeing with JohnH again.

LT

[JohnH]

You've got me worried, too.
When people start agreeing with me, I begin to think I'm not explaining myself very well...

[Super Mom]

Thanks!

Just want to say thanks for the advice!!