Exploring the Taxpayer Advocate Service: A Lifeline for Taxpayers

Dealing with the IRS can be frustrating, especially when problems aren’t resolved through normal channels. The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is here to help when things go wrong. But when should you turn to TAS? Here are key situations where they can make a difference:

1. Financial Hardship or Imminent Adverse Action

TAS can intervene if an IRS action, like a lien or levy, is causing you severe financial distress or facing an immediate threat of a levy or seizure. They can work to resolve the issue quickly or delay the action while your case is reviewed.

2. Unresolved Issues Despite Repeated Attempts

If you’ve tried multiple times to fix a tax problem but keep hitting a wall, TAS can help. TAS can break through the red tape, whether it’s a persistent error or communication breakdown.

3. Unreasonable Delays

If the IRS takes too long to address your issue, causing hardship, TAS can intervene. They can push the IRS to prioritize your case and prevent further complications.

4. Incorrect Interpretation of Tax Law

If you believe the IRS misinterprets tax law or its procedures, TAS can help challenge this. They ensure the law is applied correctly, so you aren’t unfairly penalized.

Conclusion

TAS is there when standard IRS processes fail. Whether it’s financial hardship, delays, or incorrect application of the law, TAS provides the help you need. If you’re stuck with an unresolved tax issue, contacting TAS could be your best step toward a fair resolution.

Author: Jim Payne

Jim Payne, a Florida Certified Public Accountant (CPA) since 1976, offers candid insights on getting square with the IRS — with the least pain, and at the lowest cost — with (or without) the help of a tax representative. Mr. Payne is a former IRS agent and expert in business profitability, IRS audits, IRS payroll tax, and IRS non-filer issues. As a Tax Representative, his goal is clear: " I will speak on your behalf to all IRS agents, so you never have to, and I'll guide you in executing a strategy to resolve your IRS problem so you can get back to enjoying life."

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