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"What are the penalties for not filing my taxes on time?"

The penalties for not filing taxes on time may vary depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances of the individual taxpayer. However, generally speaking, there are both civil and criminal penalties for failing to file taxes on time.

Civil penalties may include late-filing penalties, which can range from 5% to 25% of the unpaid tax liability for each month or part of a month that the return is late. There may also be penalties for failing to pay taxes owed when due, which can be up to 0.5% of the unpaid tax liability per month.

In addition to civil penalties, there may also be criminal penalties for failing to file taxes on time, such as fines and even imprisonment. It is important to note that criminal penalties are reserved for more egregious cases of tax evasion and noncompliance.

If a taxpayer is unable to file their taxes on time, they should still file for an extension to avoid any late filing penalties. Additionally, if a taxpayer cannot pay their taxes in full when they are due, they should contact the IRS to set up a payment plan to avoid further penalties and interest charges.

It is critical to seek the advice of a licensed attorney or tax professional if facing penalties for failing to file taxes on time, as each case can present unique circumstances and may require a tailored legal strategy.