Although tax auditors exercise various precautions when carrying out audits, the final report can still have errors. If you have reasons to believe that there is any error in your report, you can challenge it by filing a written request with the IRS Office of Appeals. Formally called “IRS appeal”, the request is a provision to help taxpayers resolve tax disputes with the Federal body.
Below are three things that you must keep in mind when filing an appeal against an IRS report.
1. What is Office of Appeals?
The IRS Office of Appeal is an independent organization formed in 1927 to resolve tax disputes between the taxpayer and the Federal Government. Every year the Office of Appeals helps thousands of taxpayers resolve their tax disputes without having to go to the Tax Court. In addition the appeal process carried at the Office of Appeals is less formal and more economical than the Tax Court and is also not subjected to any judicial rules of evidence or procedure.
2. How to Request an Appeal?
You can request an appeal if:
- You believe that the IRS’ decision was inapt or did not comply with any of the tax laws.
- You believe that the IRS has misunderstood any of the facts of your case.
- You believe that the IRS is charging inappropriate collection from you.
- You disagree with your Offer in Compromise decision.
- You believe the facts determined by the IRS are incorrect.
3. What is the Appeal Process?
In all cases mentioned above, taxpayers or their representatives have to give a formal written protest to request an Appeals conference. Conferences with appeals office personnel is then conducted with the taxpayer or its authorized representative. Taxpayers can also submit a small case request if the tax and penalty amount charged to them is $25,000 or less. If you are planning to file an appeal, the formal written protest must be sent within the time limit specified in the letter, which is usually 30 days from the issuance date of the letter.
The Bottom Line
When dealing with any IRS debt issues, it is important to hire a professional tax lawyer, who has experience with helping resolve IRS debt. If you are looking for a tax attorney in Fort Worth or the Law Offices of Nick Nemeth. For a no obligation consultation, simply call (972) 426-2553, or fill out our contact form and we will get back to you, shortly.
