I was going to post this tomorrow but then realized people might think it’s an April Fool’s joke, so I’m doing it today.
Pretty much everyone has private things that have happened to them that they don’t want to discuss publicly. Well…this is mine.
Many years ago I had a television series on the air called “Space Cases.” And I made a lot of money that year. I mean a lot. And I had a ton of money sitting in my bank account ready to send to the IRS on April 15th. It was all good.
And then the day that I was going to send the check, I swung by the nearest ATM to withdraw some cash and was astounded to see that half the money in my account was gone. Why was it gone? Because my then wife withdrew it in order to pay for a divorce lawyer, which was how I found out my marriage was dissolving. So the money never went to the IRS because I had to use the remainder to hire my own attorney.
Over the years, I never managed to land another project that would pay me that much. I had lots of people make promises–I even did the work for some of them–and none ever came up with the money. Meanwhile I tried to make payment arrangements with the IRS but they didn’t last, because throughout the year I’d send in the payments but then on April 15 I had no money to pay the income tax because I’d already sent them all my spare money.
Then they seemed to just forget about it. Which was great.
Except recently they now seem to have remembered. And they want all the money, plus penalty and interest, or they are going to financially destroy me.
How much? $88,000.
So I’m asking you guys.
I’d love to say that we want the money because we want to repair the house, which is in desperate need, but that’s not the case. Every cent is going straight to the government.
Is it possible? Well, I have 5000 Facebook followers. If they each sent $10, that would get me halfway. I have over 13,000 Twitter followers. If they each sent $10, I’d be in the clear with money to pay any taxes due on the new income.
My Paypal account is padguy@aol.com. Don’t use the donate button on this site; that will send the money to the Heroes Initiative.
Do you want to get something for the money? Fine: Send a check to my PO Box, PO Box 951, Bayport, NY 11705 along with books of mine and a SASE and I’ll sign them and send them back. That’s something, I guess.
I’m sure that there are people out there who will be overjoyed that I’m having financial difficulties, but I’m hoping the rest of you will not judge me too harshly and help me out.
PAD
• 
Speak to the IRS, Peter,if you haven’t already. Tell them the situation. and ask how you go about making payments and is there any avenue that would allow a reduction in fees and penalties.
They may wave it all. Not the owing,but the penalties.
Mr David,
Always enjoyed your writing in comics and books. Hope my contribution helps.
See a bankruptcy attorney. Immediately. If you’ve filed on time, taxes over a couple years old are dischargeable.
It’s easier than people think to have a brief period of higher than normal income cause massive headaches down the line. Donation sent. I wish it could be more.
Dear Peter, I’ve read your stories when I was young, thank you for your work. I’ve sent the money with paypal…
Done, good luck.
Simon.
Done. Hope it helps and wishing for a speedy resolution to that mess.
I’m probably not the best person to give you this advice, PAD, but please look past the source.
Do NOT accept a single penny until you’ve talked with a tax pro — lawyer, expert, or something.
As others have noted, these donations might end up being considered as “income” and end up screwing you over next year.
I’m guessing you don’t listen to much talk radio, but one of the bigger commercial sponsors are tax relief firms. They are set up to help people in your situation, and can tell you just how much trouble you’re in and, possibly, negotiate a settlement and payment plan on your behalf.
People buying your books is fine, I suspect, as it’s just income. But gifts are a whole ‘nother kettle of fish, as I understand it.
For God’s sake, though, don’t take my word on that. TALK TO A PRO, AND FAST.
I happily donated. You’ve given me some great reading over the years and were very kind and gracious to both myself and my daughter at Terrificon this past summer. As others have suggested contacting a tax attorney, I would suggest reaching out to the Hero Initiative. Attorneys cost money and Hero might be able to put you in touch with someone who could work pro bono or at a reduced rate or possibly even Hero could pay them (that’s what they’re there for, to help comic creators in need). Be well.
Dear Mr. David,
Been a fan of your work for years, and I feel your pain when the IRS comes knocking. I wasn’t able to send much, but it’s a start.
Good luck, and hopefully you get out of this rut, and fast.
~D
Seconding all the “see a tax attorney” advice and pointing out that if you were married when you earned that money, half the debt is hers.
PAD,
.
I’ve mailed you my donation. I hope the combined efforts of everyone responding to your plea prove helpful.
.
Rick.
Donation sent! Love your writing!
Good luck, sir!
Best to you, Sir David.
That’s rough. Spreading the word on social media.
I sent ten bucks. Peter was always nice to me and my friends at cons. I hope he learns to manage his finances better or hires an accountant to do it for him. I’ve never had $88K in one place in my entire life. Use this second chance wisely.