Tax evasion and tax fraud are serious crimes that could have you paying a hefty fine, or worse, spending time behind bars.

Whether you work for a company or own one, if you fall within the tax parameters, pay your taxes! If you're a game developer, bus driver, plumber, mobile service provider, or even a domestic worker, your income may be taxable. If you're not sure about your tax status, find out by speaking to an online tax expert from your home in Portland or anywhere else in the country, or by consulting the IRA's mobile app.

Are Tax Avoidance and Tax Evasion the Same Thing?

No. Tax avoidance is a legal way to pay less by using the tax code. Many employers set up retirement funds for their employees, which are tax-deductible. Companies may also claim tax credits for spending money legally, for example, by hiring staff to work at their business. Such a reduction is known as a work opportunity tax credit.

Tax evasion is, as the name implies, the avoidance of paying or reporting income for tax purposes. Tax evasion is fraudulent and can apply to both businesses and individuals. It's an illegal offense, and if you're found guilty, you can be slapped with a substantial penalty or even sentenced to prison.

Use Your Mobile Apps to Manage and Pay Your Taxes

Almost everyone today owns a smartphone. Download the CRA or IRA app to stay updated on your tax status and outstanding payments. Many of the major banks have apps which allow you to do all your banking.

You could easily set up the revenue agency as a beneficiary on your account and pay your taxes in a few quick, easy steps. There's no need to stand in a long queue at the bank; you can pay your taxes on the go.

Negligence

Not everyone is out to elude the law. Some people pay their taxes religiously, but they may mistakenly forget something. If they're selected for a random audit, they may still face charges. This is a situation where having a criminal tax lawyer will be of assistance.

Revenue attorneys are experts in the field of tax law and will assist you in stating your case. Be sure always to have all your back-up documentation of previous filings available as this will be useful evidence that you were not willfully attempting to evade your legal obligation.

How Can You Know What You Must Do?

Our recommendation is: if you're in doubt, consult an expert in the field. For tax, it could be someone like your accountant, lawyer, or you could speak to someone at the Revenue Agency.

Individuals in the know will guide you in how to stay on the right side of the law. If you're not sure where to start, explain your situation, and they will assist you with information about what your reporting obligations are. From there, you can find out what forms you need to complete and what supplemental documentation you must include.

Whistleblowing

If you know of an enterprise or a person that is evading tax or committing tax fraud, you can report it. You will be allowed to give your information anonymously. The program may also reward the whistleblower if the information proves to be of sound value.

Conclusion

Your tax money goes back into the systems the country needs such as, healthcare, childcare, and old age security payments for the elderly. Evading your obligation is criminal, and can land you in prison. Is jail time worth it? Get connected and pay on your phone today.