|
IRS Audit Assistance & Mediation (cont.)
A notice of audit should never be ignored. The notice must always be replied. You have the right to representation
when faced with an audit. You can hire professionals like tax attorneys who can represent you before the IRS if you
are being audited.
You have a right to an appeal if you disagree with the audit's outcome.
There are many reasons why you must use the services of a tax professional for assistance when faced with an IRS audit.
The most important reason is that you need not be present at the audit. The agent does not get to question you in person
regarding the small details of your return. They cannot use the occasion to intimidate you or imply threats of bigger problems
if you do not co-operate.
The subject of tax law is complex. Ignorance of law is no excuse. If you represent yourself before the IRS in an audit,
the IRS will assume that you are aware of the tax laws.
The IRS has mediation program called the Fast Track Mediation however limited only to small businesses and self employed
tax payers. It is available for all non-docketed cases and collection source work including offer in compromise and collection
due process cases. Either party – the tax payer or the IRS can suggest that the case be sent for mediation under the program.
If the both parties agree, then a request to participate in the program must be made. The request can only be initiated at the
conclusion of an examination or collection determination.
If the case is accepted, an Appeals Official is assigned to the case.
The Appeals Official serves as a neutral party. A non-IRS employee cannot act as the mediator under this program. The Appeals
Official will call a meeting of the parties at a pre-determined date and location. The parties will be informed about the procedures
and ground rules in advance. The meeting may be a joint meeting with both parties or separate meetings. The Appeals Official may call
for additional information from either party. Copies of all submissions made by the parties are provided to the other. All communication
made during the program are confidential.
The Appeals Official cannot decide on any issue in the case. The case can only be resolved of both parties – tax payer and IRS are in agreement.
If you are a loved one needs help in learning about IRS Audit Assistance & Mediation services, end your worries and
contact one of our ex-IRS agents to end your sleepless nights.
Our services are available in all 50 states including Texas, California, New York, Alaska, Hawaii, and the District of Columbia.
| |
