What is the definition of tax evasion?

Tax evasion is defined as the illegal act of not paying taxes owed. This occurs when individuals or businesses deliberately misrepresent their financial situation to tax authorities to reduce their tax liability. Such actions can include underreporting income, inflating deductions or expenses, and hiding money in offshore accounts, among other deceptive practices. The critical factor that distinguishes tax evasion from other tax-related concepts is its intentionality and illegality, making it a serious crime subject to penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment.

Other options touch upon legal tax strategies, such as minimizing obligations or deferring payments, which are lawful methods of tax planning. However, they do not embody the illegal nature that defines tax evasion.