Dealing with the IRS may call for expertise and knowledge you do not possess. If you use the wrong approach when trying to file your taxes or settle an outstanding tax debt, you could run afoul of tax codes and also owe more money than necessary. When you want to handle your tax case the best way possible, you should learn the five important ways that an IRS attorney can help you today.
Filing Tax Returns
A tax attorney can help you file your taxes in a timely manner each year. If you are self-employed, run your own business, or have a tax situation that goes beyond filing a simple return, you may have your taxes filed quickly and easily by allowing a tax lawyer to help you with tasks like:- Identifying what exemptions to claim on your return
- Deciding whether or not to itemize your deductions
- Filing all necessary documentation with your return
- Knowing what tax codes to use when filing your taxes
Dealing with IRS Notices
Many people panic and confused when they get an IRS letter in the mail. A tax attorney can help you interpret and deal with IRS notices for:- Audits
- Requests for additional documentation or paperwork
- Proof of exemptions like any children you claimed on your return
- Clarification of information you included on your return
Acting as Your Intermediary
If you have ever tried calling the IRS, you know how long you must wait on hold and how difficult it can be to talk to a live agent. It also can take weeks or months to get a response to your questions and concerns from the IRS in the mail.An IRS tax attorney, however, can act as your intermediary between you and the IRS and open better and more effective communication channels because most tax lawyers know the direct numbers and addresses to utilize. Your attorney can get the attention of the IRS and ensure that your matter is taken care of quickly. This expedited communication can help you avoid fines and penalties that may be applied if your response to notices is delayed or gets lost in the mail.
Representing You in Tax Court
When you are called to tax court, you need an experienced representative to argue your case. Your lawyer can explain your case thoroughly to the court and perhaps argue down the amount you owe or even have your obligation dismissed entirely.You also need an attorney to help you if you are facing jail time because of your past due taxes. When you want to have your case settled in your best interests, you need a tax lawyer to represent you in tax court.
Advising the Best Outcome for Outstanding Balances
You may wonder how you can best settle the balance that you owe to the IRS. Depending on your tax situation, your attorney may advise you to:- Make a lump sum payment
- Set up a payment agreement with the IRS
- Make an Offer in Compromise if you do not have liquid assets to pay off the balance
- Request that your case be put in Currently Not Collectible status if you cannot pay your taxes right now
Any of these four options can settle your past due taxes and also keep you out of IRS tax court. These options also prevent the IRS from garnishing your wages or seizing assets like your bank account or home.
Communicating with the IRS can be overwhelming and confusing. You can have your case dealt with legally, quickly, and in your best interests when you allow an IRS tax attorney to help you.
