How to handle tax law complexity

Yesterday a business owner made a comment in conversation fearful of the complexity of tax laws and his perception that compliance regulations are getting worse. His perception is accurate but I did not say so. Instead, I said that it is not my intention to help him learn more about this overly complex field. This comment was intended to get his attention. Then I explained.

I said “As the owner, you know more about the financial details of your business’ than anyone else. Meanwhile, I’ve spent a good bit of time working with businesses helping them with all kinds of IRS issues. So if you and I, working together, can’t figure it out then we should not worry about IRS figuring it out before we do. Instead, let’s focus on building your business, avoiding IRS trouble, and I’ll help you deal with IRS if that type of problem ever comes up”.

This is the healthiest attitude.