There are many things involved in establishing a new business. “One of the important steps is to protect yourself from hidden liabilities,” says tax clearance expert Debbie Kassa.   When buying or establishing a new business in Michigan, Taxpayers are required to meet certain obligations under Michigan law, including filing tax returns on time and with the correct payment when required.

Kassa is a decade long veteran of the Michigan Department of Treasury where she was in charge of reviewing Tax Returns from 1040's to the SBT & SUW returns. She also worked 7 years in the Tax Clearance Division reviewing Business accounts for Businesses & Corporations seeking a Tax Clearance.

Kassa advises every business owner on Successor Liability and how to best prepare or avoid such situations.  “When any Chaldean buys a business, even a portion of a business (including stock of goods or even the transfer of a liquor license), they may be held responsible for the previous owner's liabilities, regardless of any contractual language to the contrary.“

Kassa explains that a successor in the business must withhold sufficient purchase money to cover any business tax debts incurred by the previous owner. These funds may be released when the previous owner produces a receipt showing the taxes have been paid, or a Tax Clearance Certificate from the Michigan Department of Treasury stating that no taxes are due.

When consulting Chaldeans Kassa says the biggest challenge relating to Tax Clearance is that Chaldean business owners are intimidated by the process, find it confusing, and like to believe their accountants are handling the maze.  “That may not be the case,” says Kassa.  “They need to stay on top of what their CPA's are doing with their taxes when it comes to filing returns. Don't just assume the seller of a business (related or not) doesn't have a tax liability.”

“Ultimately you are responsible for the accuracy of your returns, no matter who you hire to prepare them. You must also keep accurate and complete records for determining tax liability, as required by law or department rule.”

The horror stories of deals gone wrong or delayed to a point where banks pull their loans is common.  Accountants and business owners often turn to Tax Clearance experts like Debbie Kassa to help navigate the government bureaucracy and expedite the process.  With over a decade at the Michigan Department of Treasury, Kassa has the contacts and strategies needed to get things moving. 

Kassa says, “this also applies to personal tax returns.  Those who fail to pay their proper share can face penalties and jail time.  Often these situations require an experienced, knowledgeable, and delicate touch to help clear-up a misunderstanding.”

To learn more about Tax Clearance and business related regulations in Michigan, readers can e-mail Debbie Kassa directly at taxclearance@sbcglobal.net.