The Right to Privacy
You as the taxpayer have the right to expect that most IRS actions will follow the law, and that it will be no more intrusive into your private life than is necessary. Read more
The Right to Be Informed
The tax world is a complicated one. Navigating the waters of the Internal Revenue manual and the tax code is not something that most taxpayers are equipped to handle. Taxpayers have the right to know what to do to be compliant with the tax laws. If they call the IRS and speak to an agent, or receive something in the mail that needs explanation, they are due to this right. As a taxpayer, you are entitled to clear explanations of the tax law as well as clear directions relating to the tax forms you are completing. An IRS decision made on your behalf must be explained to you so that you grasp what it means and the ramifications of that decision. Read more
Know These 5 Warning Signs of an IRS Levy
If you owe back taxes or have failed to file in years past, then at some point the IRS is going to adopt aggressive collection efforts. Unlike other collection agencies, the IRS can implement and enforce levies to your wages or bank accounts without a court order. Therefore, the best way to resolve a levy is by getting out in front of the problem before the IRS ever takes those steps. Read more
The Right to Quality Service
As a taxpayer you have the right to receive prompt, courteous, and professional assistance when deal with the IRS.
The Right to Retain Representation
As a taxpayer, you have the right to hire an authorized representative to deal with the IRS on your behalf. If you can’t afford an attorney or similar agent you may be eligible for free assistance. Read more
How to Prepare for a Small Business Audit
Nobody wants to get that letter in the mail ― the one marked with those three big letters, “I-R-S,” announcing that your financial history is being reviewed by the federal government. Dealing with the IRS in any extended fashion can be a nerve-racking prospect, especially when you know they’ll be auditing your very livelihood. Read more
The Right to a Fair and Just Tax System
Taxpayers have the right to experience a fair and just taxation system. They can expect that the taxing agency will consider their personal circumstances when determining liabilities and their ability to repay the government. Also, what is its capacity to provide timely information and what factors could hinder this ability? As a taxpayer, if you feel this right is not being met there is an independent agency inside the IRS known as the Taxpayer Advocate Service. This organization’s purpose is to aid taxpayers who are having difficulties are who have not received timely responses for the IRS. There are similar agencies in most states to assist with local tax matters as well. Read more
The IRS Holiday Grace Period Has Ended (With a Vengeance)
The holidays are meant to be a time of peace and reflection, and even the Internal Revenue Service agrees with that. From the last week of December through the first week in January, the IRS takes a break from sending any new levies and garnishments so taxpayers can provide for their families and enjoy their company during this already-stressful season. Read more
Driving without your license in Maryland?
As some taxpayers know, if you owe back taxes to the State of Maryland, they can take your license away. I have had clients come in and say the people at the DMV took or cut up their license when they went in to renew it. As that is embarrassing, it is nothing compared to getting caught with a suspended driver’s license due to taxes. Read more
Save Yourself Some Time and Aggravation
In my practice, I offer a free consultation to taxpayers who owe ten thousand dollars or more to the IRS or the State. Usually the only documentation I require a prospective client bring is their government issued ID and their Social Security card. Most taxpayers come in and they have their driver’s license with them; but a great many come in and say “I lost my Social Security card.” The next step in the process is telling my new client they will need a Social Security card on file with my office. It is a requirement that I verify the identity of all new customers. Secondly, I like to see how government agencies “know them.” Is it John P. Smith vs. John Paul Smith Jr.? Correctly identifying is imperative in taxes and tax resolution work. I then give then give my new client form SS-5 which is an application for a Social Security card.
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