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Abbyland Pork Pack

Turning tax audits into opportunities

Abbyland Pork Pack faced a potential $100,000 liability after a state sales and use tax audit. The manufacturer engaged Wipfli for its tax expertise — and was issued a refund instead.

The Challenge

The state of Wisconsin performed a sales and uses tax audit on Abbyland Pork Pack, the slaughter and boning division of Abbyland Foods. The audit determined Abbyland owed $100,000 in taxes, interest and penalties. The manufacturer promptly contacted Wipfli for tax expertise and assistance.

The Solution

Wipfli scrutinized the auditor’s adjustment schedule and assessments for accuracy and to identify exemptions and exceptions. Wipfli also suspected Abbyland Pork Pack had overpaid more vendors than the audit identified. After meeting with leaders on-site and collecting more information, Wipfli determined refunds were owed to the company. Wipfli’s tax specialists prepared a formal refund claim and provided evidence to reduce the state’s assessment.

When one of our companies was selected for a sales and use tax audit by Wisconsin, we contacted Wipfli. Their expertise turned a threat into an opportunity. We have a material refund coming our way, and Wipfli was integral to making that happen.
Dan Lemmer, Former Controller at Abbyland Pork Pack

The results

What began as a six-figure liability turned into a $37,000 refund. Even more beneficial, Abbyland gained a greater understanding of its tax liabilities and exemptions, which led to annual tax savings. The company is aware of its tax exposures and can make corrections internally to avoid future assessments.

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swing in tax outcome