As the IRS increases the number of audits, it’s good to be reminded that taxpayers do have rights. Here is the IRS’s Bill of Rights.

The Right to Be Informed

Taxpayers have a right to clear explanations of laws of procedures. They have the right to be informed of IRS decisions.

The Right to Quality Service

Taxpayers have the right to receive prompt, courteous, and professional assistance.

The Right to Pay No More Than the Correct Amount of Tax

Although they do add the amount of tax plus interest and penalties.

The Right to Challenge the IRS’s Position

On this one, I’ve got to say the IRS does a pretty good job. If you are being audited and don’t agree, you can appeal to a supervisor. We’ve done that several times and had the supervisor rein in an out-of-control auditor. That’s good news! If that doesn’t work, you can still appeal to the IRS. And you can take it to Tax Court beyond that.

The Right to Appeal an IRS Decision in an Independent Forum

The Office of Appeals is separate from the auditor and their supervisor.

The Right to Finality

Taxpayers have the right to know how much they how and how much time they have to appeal. They have the right to know when the IRS has finished an audit.

The Right to Privacy

Taxpayers have the right to expect the IRS to be no more intrusive than necessary.

The Right to Confidentiality

Taxpayers have the right to expect that any information they provide to the IRS will not be disclosed unless authorized by the taxpayer or by law.

The Right to Retain Representation

Taxpayers have the right to hire an authorized representative of their choice to represent them in IRS dealings.

The Right to a Fair and Just Tax System

Taxpayers have the right to expect the tax system to consider facts and circumstances that might affect their underlying liabilities, ability to pay, or ability to provide information timely. Taxpayers have the right to receive assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service if they are experiencing financial difficulty.

Get Help
Dealing with the IRS can feel overwhelming, and it always helps to have a friend on your side. Give us a call at (402) 932-8815 and find out how we can make a complicated situation simple.

Thanks,

W. E. Stevens, PC

Serving our clients with focused intentionality, professionalism, and timeliness