What do I do when the IRS is not listening? If the IRS is working your case and YOU know there is an impasse or a problem, is what they say gospel? No, you have a friend called the Taxpayer Advocate.
So how does this process work? The LTA is a Local Taxpayer Advocate that works in the area that you live. This person becomes the go between of the agent and you if there is a reason and an impasse is reached. A 911 form must be filled out and given to the agent working the case. That form is immediately sent to the local taxpayer’s advocate office. The LTA are a good go between for you and the agent, but you MUST have a legitimate reason, no bogus stuff like you don’t like the color of the agent’s hair or the agent is unpleasant.
The 911 form is designed to indicate that hardship exists and that there are causes that someone should understand. It keeps the agent on their toes if the reason is legitimate. The Advocate’s Office does the following:
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Ensuring taxpayer problems which are not resolved through normal IRS channels are promptly and impartially handled;
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Assisting taxpayers who are facing hardship;
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Identifying issues that compromise taxpayer rights, increase taxpayer burden or create problems; and bringing these issues to the attention of IRS management;
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Recommending administrative and legislative changes through the National Taxpayer Advocate’s Annual Report to Congress.
The Advocate Office really does keep everyone on their toes, especially if the revenue officer is going to file a levy of federal tax lien or even take enforcement action. They are there to help you. |
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