NJ Amnesty Program

         Everyone is in the data mining business these days. The state of New Jersey is no different. In the last several months its computers have been whirling to create a list of taxpayers that could possibly owe more tax or tax returns. Then unaided by human eyes the machines themselves sent out notices to taxpayers declaring that “our records show you owe taxes or need to file delinquent returns.” Without even a touch of a button, taxpayers across the state received these notices whether they were warranted or not. Just think about it, what a great way to raise revenue by making taxpayers think the state is on to them. Of course I’m talking about the New Jersey Amnesty Program. And if you haven’t read about it in the paper, seen it online or slapped on the sides of public buses you have probably been residing on the moon. Like the flyers you get from Kohl’s or Macy’s it was almost like a one day sale. Under the Jersey plan, which ran for 62 days from November 15 to January 15, the tax division was willing to waive penalties and 50% of the interest for eligible taxpayers who enroll in the amnesty program… and pay up. Naturally the suggestion is that if taxpayers don’t come forward themselves they soon will be found in the state audit grinder. That of course remains to be seen. If you are just getting wind of this program go to tax amnesty.nj.gov to find the elaborate application guidelines and FAQs. You know if you have been running from the tax authorities whether state or federal it may make sense to come forward anyway even if you are outside the amnesty program. These tax agencies are going to get a lot better in detecting tax violators of all kinds as data mining becomes a recognized national sport. As you are well aware, privacy is dead.