South Dakota Tax Fraud and Tax Evasion Laws

There are both state and federal laws that criminalize tax evasion and tax fraud. These laws are violated when a taxpayer intentionally attempts to avoid paying a tax. Some common examples of tax evasion include:

• Intentionally failing to file a tax return
• Willfully failing to pay a tax
• Intentionally failing to report all income received
• Willfully making false or fraudulent claims regarding taxes
• Intentionally preparing or filing a false tax return

The chart below outlines South Dakota's main tax evasion law.

Mistakes Do Not Constitute Tax Evasion

Tax codes can be very complicated and taxpayers often make honest mistakes when filing their tax returns. A taxpayer can only be convicted of tax fraud or tax evasion if their false return was filed with the intent to defeat or evade a tax. In other words, mistakes that are made in good faith can't constitute tax evasion or tax fraud in South Dakota.

Report Tax Evasion

The South Dakota Investigative Survives Bureau (IBS) is responsible for investigating suspected tax fraud, tax evasion, and other acts that circumvent the state's revenue laws. Known or suspected tax fraud in South Dakota should be reported to the IBS via their website.

Federal Tax Fraud and Tax Evasion

Tax fraud and tax evasion are also illegal under federal law 26 U.S. Code § 7201. Under this law it is a crime for any person to willfully attempt in any manner to evade or defeat any tax imposed by law. Tax evasion is a felony offense that is punishable by imprisonment for up to five years, and/or a fine of up to $100,000 ($500,000 in the case of a corporation).

Additional Resources

• Fraud
• Income Tax: Fraud vs. Negligence
• Internal Revenue Service

State laws change frequently. For case specific information regarding South Dakota's tax fraud and tax evasion laws contact a local tax attorney.