NFL Player Drops The Ball: Plaxico Burress Indicted For Failure To Pay Taxes

Paying taxes is no one’s idea of a good time. Unfortunately, writing a check to Uncle Sam every April 15th is the price we all pay for living the “American Dream”. When everyday people fail to pay taxes it is most likely due to financial hardship or some other innocent error. In those instances the tax liability due is relatively small in comparison to what celebrities and athletes typically owe. But, regardless of your job title or income, failing to pay your taxes when they are due will land you in hot water with the Government.

Former NFL wide receiver Plaxico Burress recently learned this lesson the hard way. The player is facing an indictment for failing to pay his 2013 taxes. The alleged facts include the following:

  • The amount in question is nearly $48,000.00
  • Burress attempted to remit payment for his tax bill electronically, but the payment didn’t go through.
  • An insufficient wire transfer or electronic payment is the equivalent of writing a bad check, and is punishable as such.
  • The maximum penalty is up to five years in prison and a monetary fine of $15,000.00.

A Court date has not yet been set, but rest assured Burress will need to put on aggressive defense in order to minimize the penalties. Facing any type of tax related investigation, indictment, or audit is serious business to say the least. In order to make it through to the other side as unscathed as possible it is critical to partner with an experienced legal tax professional. We have helped numerous taxpayers sort through their tax issues and are here to help you too!

If you have questions about taxes and how to respond to an investigation or questioning by the IRS, let the professionals at Nielsen Law Group help you negotiate with the IRS. Call (480) 888-7111 or submit a web request here.