Horowitz and Weinstein represents numerous taxpayers before the Illinois Department of Revenue regarding Sales Tax, Use Tax, Motor Fuels Tax and other taxes on almost a daily basis. In the course of handing Illinois tax matters regarding boats, vehicles, fast food establishments, ancillary auto service companies and others we have noticed a significant number of enforcement actions against gas station owners. Now, it is no longer conjecture. One study showed 27 percent of gas station owners did not report the correct sales and motor fuels taxes. In our practice we have noticed increased activity by the Illinois Department of Revenue targeting gas stations.
Ratcheting up enforcement even more is a proposed tax evasion statute working its way through the Illinois Legislature that makes it easier for prosecutors to charge sales tax evaders. As part of the features the statute introduces the concept of sales tax evasion. In other areas, some of the penalties are designated as “non-probational” which takes on significant consequences to violators.
For more information on Illinois sales tax, motor fuel tax, audits by the Illinois Department of Revenue, or other tax law concerns, contact Horowitz & Weisntein.