Utah Tax Education & Planning

Learning Your Tax Facts

Filing your taxes may seem difficult, but there are methods that can be done to not only accomplish the task, but actually save you money. Become familiar with the basic tax terms and how they influence your finances — and reach out to our team if a problem ever surfaces.

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Your Tax Attorneys

Apply the Basics With Experienced Representation in the Background

Spencer Evans, attorney at Michelle Turpin, P.C.

Spencer Evans

Attorney

Spencer Evans brings nearly 20 years of exclusively practicing tax law. He started his career as a state tax attorney working for a state taxing agency and has significant experience working as a tax attorney for Big 4 accounting firms. His unique background provides invaluable insight into how both sides approach tax controversies.

Credentials and Expertise

  • Juris Doctor, Florida State University School of Law (2005)
  • Admitted to practice before Arizona, Utah, Federal District and U.S. Tax Courts
  • Former government tax attorney
  • 13+ years at PwC and Deloitte representing both small and large taxpayers in tax matters before state taxing agencies throughout the U.S.
  • Nationwide sales tax audit defense specialist
  • Expert in reverse sales tax audits and refund procurement
  • Multi-state tax controversy resolution
  • Federal and state tax appeals representation
Michelle Turpin, P.C.

Michelle Turpin

Attorney

With nearly 40 years of experience representing taxpayers before the IRS and state taxing authorities, Michelle Turpin is recognized as one of Utah's leading tax controversy attorneys. She has successfully handled thousands of complex tax cases, from routine audits to high-stakes criminal tax investigations.

Credentials and Expertise

  • Juris Doctor, University of Utah School of Law (1989)
  • LL.M. Masters in Taxation, University of San Diego (1990)
  • Former intern, IRS Office of District Counsel
  • Admitted to practice before Utah, Federal District Court and U.S. Tax Courts
  • Specializes in federal and state tax controversy, criminal tax defense, and complex tax planning

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In a Hurry? Read Our Key Points

Basic Tax Terms, Made Simple

Dealing with taxes may not be at the front of everybody's minds, but it is something that most deal with on a daily basis. Whether it is the amount taken out of your paycheck every week, the additional charge to your groceries at the store, or the road construction improving local infrastructure, taxes make an impact in our lives on a regular basis. Even so, there are some people that don't even know the basic tax terms that are frequently used. Become familiar with these terms and how they influence your finances.

The Four Concepts Every Taxpayer Should Know

Tax credits

This is a term that gets used frequently. It works the same as getting a credit in a store or other location. Credits are valuable because they reduce the amount you owe instead of lowering the amount of taxed income you have. With enough credits, you can end with a refund.

Tax deductions

These are deductions you are allowed to make to your adjusted gross income as per the IRS. These deductions can be higher for those with lower incomes or based on a number of other factors. Some of the most common factors taken into consideration are student loan interest that has accrued, moving costs, and more. Find out what of your expenses can be tax deductions.

Standard deduction

There is a fixed amount set that taxpayers can take out of their income. It is an option for anybody who is filing their taxes. On account of inflation, these amounts change from year to year, but remain constant across the board during that year. This amount should be listed on the three tax forms received at the beginning of tax season.

Itemized deduction

These are the expenses from the year that can be reduced from your adjusted gross income to reduce your income amount to calculate taxes. Things such as mortgage interest, charitable contributions, and medical expenses can be accounted for here. These should be made in detail, showing each item individually.

Filing your taxes may seem difficult, but there are methods that can be done to not only accomplish the task, but find ways to save you money. If you find yourself in a bad situation because of a problem with filing, contact us at Michelle Turpin, P.C. We can help get you back on track, mending the problem that may have arisen.

Our Local, State, and Federal Tax Lawyers

We are a full-service tax law firm with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals and businesses deal with all of their tax and bankruptcy issues. If you are dealing with the IRS or a State taxing authority, our tax attorneys can help you navigate the bureaucratic process, make sure that your rights as a taxpayer are protected and resolve your issues in the best manner possible.

We'll Help You Deal with the IRS

The IRS can be ruthless when it comes to dealing with those they believe have committed tax fraud or who owe them money. If you have come into conflict with the IRS, you'll want our experienced Salt Lake tax law professionals on your side. Our tax attorneys will represent you and help your case reach the most favorable outcome.

Get Personalized Tax Help

Schedule a Tax Facts Consultation

If you want help applying these tax facts to your specific situation, our attorneys can review your income, deductions, and credits to maximize your refund and minimize your audit risk. Call for a quick walkthrough.

Reach Our Office

Call (801) 685-0552 or use our secure client portal.

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Michelle Turpin PC - Creekside Office Plaza

4764 S 900 E #3, Millcreek, UT 84117

Michelle Turpin PC - St. George UT

162 N 400 E Ste a-204, St. George, UT 84770