Best Tax Lawyers in Honolulu

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Carlsmith Ball LLP

Carlsmith Ball LLP

Honolulu, United States

Founded in 1857
46 people in their team
At Carlsmith Ball, our history is driven by change. From the founding of our first office in Hilo in 1857, to welcoming the state’s first woman...
English

About Tax Law in Honolulu, United States

Taxation in Honolulu, United States follows both federal and Hawaii state tax laws. The tax landscape broadly includes categories like individual income tax, corporate tax, sales tax, property tax, and other miscellaneous taxes. Honolulu sits under the jurisdiction of Hawaii's state tax laws and is subject to specific regulations and criteria. Understanding tax laws can be complex due to annual changes, and as such, it may be beneficial to seek professional advice.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a tax lawyer could be critical in many situations. If you're facing a complex business transaction, planning your estate, dealing with tax disputes with the IRS or the Hawaii Department of Taxation, or trying to understand complicated tax regulations, seeking legal help can be invaluable. A competent tax lawyer can negotiate tax penalties and settlements, will help to protect your rights, and provide advice on how to minimize liabilities on state and federal taxes.

Local Laws Overview

Hawaii tax law includes multiple categories and sub-categories. For individuals, there is Income tax, which is a progressive tax that varies based on income level and filing status. The state also imposes a General Excise Tax (GET) that functions similar to a sales tax. Property taxes in Honolulu are comparatively low by national standards, but it's crucial to understand how these are calculated based on assessed value and the type of property. For businesses, corporate taxation, including franchise tax and public service company tax, applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to pay both state and federal taxes?

Yes, as a resident of Honolulu, you're required to pay both federal taxes and Hawaii state taxes.

2. How can I dispute a tax penalty?

You can dispute a tax penalty by writing a formal tax appeal letter or by seeking tax litigation. A tax attorney can be very helpful in these situations.

3. What are my rights if I'm audited by the Hawaii Department of Taxation?

During an audit, you have the right to understand why the audit is taking place, what is being requested, and how the process works. You also have the right to legal representation.

4. What rate is the General Excise Tax in Honolulu?

The general rate is 4%, but for activities based in Honolulu, there is a surcharge of 0.5%, making the effective rate 4.5%.

5. Are there any tax benefits for retirees in Honolulu?

Hawaii doesn't tax Social Security retirement benefits or public pension income, but it does tax income from private pensions and distributions from retirement savings accounts.

Additional Resources

For additional information and resources, you can visit the Hawaii Department of Taxation's official website or the IRS website. Both offer several tools and guides to help understand your tax obligations. There are also non-profit resources like the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii and the Hawaii State Bar Association which provide valuable tax law information and services.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with tax issues, start by identifying your specific needs. You can conduct your own research using provided resources and based on this, decide whether you require a tax attorney. If you do, look for local attorneys specializing in tax law. Be sure to verify their credentials, experience, and reputation in the field. Finally, schedule a consultation to discuss your situation and understand how they can assist you.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.