- 23 - understand the questions asked by respondent's counsel on cross- examination. Nonetheless, he was candid, not evasive. Considering the totality of the facts and circumstances contained in this record, we conclude that respondent has not carried the heavy burden of proving fraud by clear and convincing evidence. Consequently, we hold for Mr. Ortiz on this issue. Issue 7. Accuracy-Related Penalties The Court is satisfied, based on this record, that respondent's alternative determination that petitioners are liable for the accuracy-related penalties under section 6662 for both years should be sustained. Section 6662(a) provides generally for a penalty of 20 percent of the portion of an underpayment to which the section applies. Section 6662(b) lists five categories in which an underpayment of tax will be subjected to the penalty, including negligence. "Negligence" includes any failure to make a reasonable attempt to comply with the Internal Revenue Code. Sec. 6662(c). Petitioners underreported their income for the years in issue. In short, they did not do what a reasonable and ordinary prudent person would do under the circumstances. Neely v. Commissioner, 85 T.C. 934, 947 (1985). Petitioners presented no evidence to show that their underpayments were due to reasonable cause and that they acted in good faith with respect to such underpayments. Sec. 6664(c).Page: Previous 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Next
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