What Is the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS)?
The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent division within the IRS that helps taxpayers resolve disputes or issues that it has not been possible to address through normal IRS channels. The service is free and available to all taxpayers, whether they are individuals or businesses.
The TAS is led by the National Taxpayer Advocate, an IRS-appointed official responsible for identifying systemic issues in tax administration and advocating for taxpayers’ rights. This service acts as a bridge between taxpayers and the IRS, working to ensure fairness and efficiency in tax matters.
How Can the Taxpayer Advocate Help You?
If you’re experiencing a tax issue that you can’t resolve through regular IRS processes, the Taxpayer Advocate may be able to help. Some of the key areas where they assist include:
1. Resolving IRS Errors and Processing Delays
If your tax return is stuck in processing, your refund is delayed, or the IRS has made an error in calculating your taxes, the TAS can help escalate your case.
2. Correcting Incorrect IRS Actions
The IRS sometimes makes mistakes, such as applying incorrect tax penalties, misallocating payments, or failing to properly process a taxpayer’s response. The Taxpayer Advocate works to correct these errors.
3. Addressing IRS Collection Issues
If you’re facing immediate financial hardship due to IRS collection actions, such as wage garnishments or bank levies, the TAS can step in to stop or adjust the collections process.
4. Helping With Taxpayer Rights Violations
If you believe the IRS is violating your taxpayer rights, the TAS ensures fair treatment and works to resolve unjust actions against you.
5. Providing Assistance With IRS Communications
Many taxpayers struggle to get clear information or responses from the IRS. The TAS can act as an intermediary to get answers faster.
Who Qualifies for Help From the Taxpayer Advocate?
Not every taxpayer issue qualifies for TAS assistance. You may be eligible if:
You’ve made multiple attempts to resolve your issue with the IRS, but the problem remains unresolved.
The IRS is not responding to your requests or has delayed processing your return for an extended period.
You are facing financial hardship due to IRS actions, such as levies or garnishments.
You believe the IRS is treating you unfairly or violating your taxpayer rights.
How to Contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service
If you believe you qualify for assistance, here’s how to reach out to the TAS:
Visit the IRS Website – Go to IRS.gov and search for “Taxpayer Advocate Service.”
Call the TAS Office – Each state has a local TAS office. You can find your local office’s contact details on the IRS website.
Submit Form 911 – If you need immediate assistance, you can file IRS Form 911, Request for Taxpayer Advocate Assistance. This form can be submitted online, by fax, or by mail.
When to Use the Taxpayer Advocate vs. Other IRS Solutions
While the Taxpayer Advocate Service is a valuable resource, it’s not always the best or fastest solution. Here are some guidelines:
Use TAS for:
Long-standing unresolved tax issues.
IRS errors affecting your tax balance.
Financial hardship caused by IRS actions.
Use Other IRS Solutions for:
Filing disputes and appeals (use IRS appeals procedures).
Immediate collection actions (use Collection Due Process appeals).
Routine tax questions (contact the IRS customer service instead).
The Taxpayer Advocate Service is a powerful resource for taxpayers dealing with IRS-related challenges. Whether you’re facing delays, collection actions, or incorrect IRS decisions, the TAS can help resolve complex issues and ensure fair treatment.
By understanding your rights and knowing how to seek assistance, you can take control of your tax situation and reduce stress. If you’re struggling with an IRS problem, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Taxpayer Advocate Service for help.Heading 2
Book a free consultation with a Guardian Tax Professional today to get clear answers to your unique situation.
