Understanding Voluntary Disclosure Agreements
Most states have voluntary disclosure programs that are designed to encourage the payment of many different types of back taxes. These rules vary state by state, and certain states may require the filing of tax returns for a different number of prior periods, and some also have rules on the abatement or reduction of penalties and interest. In addition, there are different programs for individuals and business entities, which may help to limit prior income, franchise, sales, use, and other tax exposures and penalties. Finally, the states share taxpayer information with other jurisdictions, like the Federal government or localities.