‘Tax resistance’ gains attention amid ICE protests, Iran war — and IRS penalties could follow
Tax resistance grows amid protests and war.

As the Iran war escalates, some Americans, including Chicago attorney Rachel Cohen, are engaging in tax resistance by withholding federal taxes owed, citing moral objections to U.S. government actions. While this form of protest is legal, the IRS warns that such actions can lead to significant penalties, including wage garnishment and criminal charges, as moral or religious beliefs do not exempt individuals from their tax responsibilities.
Key Takeaways
- 1.
Chicago attorney Rachel Cohen owes $8,830 in federal taxes but refuses to pay as a protest.
- 2.
Tax protesters face potential penalties including wage garnishment and even jail time.
- 3.
The IRS has a history of dismissing tax resistance claims as frivolous.
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