Bad advice from the IRS

Q. This isn't your fault but we always hear about cases where the IRS gave bad advice. How are we supposed to do anything when the IRS can't even do it right themselves?

This issue is brought up to Congress repeatedly as a reason for the need to simplify tax laws.

Unfortunately, as taxpayers, we cannot use this as an excuse. Taxpayers are required to take the necessary steps to ensure that tax returns filed are reasonably accurate.

When complex issues are involved, the government expects you to determine the proper tax consequences from the transaction and also how to report the transaction.

This may require you to hire tax professionals.