- 14 - that Mr. Abeyta was self-employed by the Department of the Air Force for purposes of the self-employment tax. Therefore, we conclude that petitioners are not liable for the self-employment tax on the value of lodging provided to Mr. Abeyta. Accordingly, we hold for petitioners on this issue. C. Accuracy-Related Penalty The last issue for decision is whether petitioners are liable for an accuracy-related penalty pursuant to section 6662(a) for the year in issue. Section 6662(a) imposes a penalty equal to 20 percent of any underpayment of tax that is attributable to either (1) negligence or disregard of rules or regulations or (2) a substantial understatement of income tax. See sec. 6662(a), (b)(1) and (2). The term “negligence” includes any failure to make a reasonable attempt to comply with the Internal Revenue Code. Sec. 6662(c). “Negligence” also includes any failure by the taxpayer to keep adequate books and records or to substantiate items properly. Sec. 1.6662-3(b)(1), Income Tax Regs. The term “disregard” includes any careless, reckless, or intentional disregard. Id.; sec. 1.6662-3(b)(2), Income Tax Regs. An understatement of income tax is “substantial” if it exceeds the greater of 10 percent of the tax required to be shown on the return, or $5,000. Sec. 6662(d)(1)(A). As relevant herein, an “understatement” is defined as the excess of the taxPage: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Next
Last modified: May 25, 2011