WELCOME TO THE MILIKOWSKY TAX LAW BLOG
Providing actionable insights and valuable information to help you navigate the complexity of tax law for your business.

The Business Owner’s Guide to a CBP Audit: What to Expect, How to Prepare, and Why It Matters
If your business imports goods into the United States, you could be subject to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) audit—even if you’ve never had a shipment flagged or goods held at the port. Unlike an IRS audit, a CBP audit is about how…

IRS Audits: Why You Should NOT Cheat on Your Taxes
There’s a common myth that you can cut a few corners on your taxes, fudge the numbers, or take some liberties with deductions, especially if your business isn’t a household name. But here’s the truth: cheating on your taxes is a short-term…

Improper handling of Incoterms and landed cost accounting
Understanding the Impact of Incoterms on Import Tax Compliance
What Are Incoterms?
Incoterms, or International Commercial Terms, are globally recognized rules published by the International Chamber of Commerce. They define the responsibilities…

What is the Lifecycle of an IRS Audit? [VIDEO]
Understanding the lifecycle of an IRS audit is crucial for any taxpayer faced with this daunting process. An audit can touch upon various aspects of your financial history, and being prepared at each stage is key.
John Milikowsky, Founder…

Your Guide to California and Federal Tax Evasion Penalties
The law imposes significant tax evasion penalties to deter activities that could lead to a conviction for evasion or fraud. In addition to financial penalties, a tax fraud conviction can result in several years of jail time, depriving you of…

Pro Tip – Review These Items Before Meeting with IRS for an Audit in 2025
If you've received an IRS audit notice for 2025, it's understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed. However, it's important not to panic. There are key steps you can take to ensure you're prepared and can handle the situation effectively.
John…

What Should You Pay for a Tax Attorney?
How much should you pay for a tax attorney? It depends on the issue you’re facing. If you’re a business owner, you can expect to pay a little bit more because these cases tend to have more complicated issues. Sometimes, cases can cost $2,000 to $3,000, but it depends on the complexity of the case itself.

Do you need an attorney to represent you in an IRS audit?
Being audited by the IRS can be an intimidating experience. You may wonder if you need legal representation to navigate the complexities of the audit. While the IRS auditor may suggest that an attorney is unnecessary, it is your legal right…

IRS Audits: Common Questions [Part 1: VIDEO]
At Milikowsky Tax Law, we frequently encounter questions from clients about the intricacies of IRS audits. It's essential to understand the process and the expectations to navigate these situations effectively. Below, John Milikowsky, founder…

IRS Wants to Look at Your Bank Account
Bank accounts serve as a tool for personal and private finances. In the past, bank accounts were not typically investigated or monitored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) unless a taxpayer experienced an audit. However, following a proposal…

IRS Audits in 2025: Key Issues for Real Estate Owners & Business Investors
If you own real estate or run a business, you might be wondering what IRS audits will look like in 2025. The good news? The IRS isn’t ramping up random audits as much as some had expected. The bad news? They’re getting better at spotting…

IRS Audits Are About to Surge—Here’s Who They’re Targeting
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is stepping up its enforcement game, setting its sights on specific taxpayer groups with a renewed focus on combating tax evasion and generating additional revenue for the U.S. government. But according to…