Linda Tanton, deputy Maryland comptroller since 2005, heads the operating divisions that collect $16 billion a year in state taxes. She began as a tax attorney in the comptroller?s office 30 years ago.
What?s the hardest part about tax collection?
The most difficult part is ensuring that we are fair and evenhanded with all taxpayers, including those that we may think may have intentionally failed to file and report. But it?s important to the citizens of the state that we collect the taxes that are due to ensure a level playing field for everyone. No one likes to pay come April 15, and no one likes to pay when they make purchases that are subject to sales tax. But I think they feel more comfortable doing that when they know we?re going after those who are intentionally trying to avoid paying the tax.
What are the excuses people give for failing to pay taxes?
A lot of fires, floods, famine ? those kinds of stories. A lot of businesses that can?t find their records because they?ve had a flood or some kind of mishap. There are a lot of sad cases that you hear that really can touch your heartstrings.
But there are also a lot of people who tell you that they couldn?t afford to pay their taxes because they had to pay for their daughter?s wedding. We?re certainly less sympathetic to those kinds of cases.
Do tax cheaters go to prison?
We refer taxpayers occasionally for criminal prosecution to the attorney general?s office. It is rare that judges will sentence people to actual jail time. They?re more likely to give them suspended sentences and order restitution, but it does happen occasionally. Parole and probation typically will send restitution to us as part of their parole requirements
