Each year, the California Franchise Tax Board releases a list of the top 500 delinquent taxpayers—people who contribute to the state's $10 billion tax gap, which is calculated by subtracting taxes paid from taxes owed to the state.
According to the Franchise Tax Board, a lien for $356,313.48 was filed against Winton F. Hoyt of North Redondo Beach on March 7, 2011.
Other liens filed in the South Bay include $287,717.05 against Superior Remodeling Contractor, Inc., of Palos Verdes Estates on June 4, 2010; $502,067.43 against Robert A. Zappelli of Torrance on Sept. 29, 2003; $257,582.47 against member of the California Bar Association Donald P. Balzano of Torrance on Nov. 20, 2003; $292,964.68 against Shikhakhmed Rustam of Torrance on Dec. 22, 2011; and $1,177,536.78 against Century Parts Inc. of Torrance on Nov. 28, 2011.
In all of California, San Francisco residents Halsey M. and Shannon Minor owe the most. The lien against them for $10,455,580.69 was filed on June 26, 2009.
"When taxpayers do not pay their fair share, it places an unfair burden on those who do," according to the Franchise Tax Board. "Closing the tax gap is in the best interest of all Californians."
To avoid inclusion on the list, taxpayers must pay their debt in full, agree to an installment plan with the Internal Revenue Service and resolve the tax liability, according to the Franchise Tax Board. After June 30, taxpayers included on the list could lose their professional licenses and may be unable to enter into contracts with California state agencies.
Anyone with information on delinquent taxpayers that can lead to the collection of their debt or who believes they shouldn't be on the list should call the Franchise Tax Board at 888-426-8555 (personal income tax) or 888-426-8751 (business income tax).
