Getting married means sharing a life, a home, and often, finances. But for many people, it also means sharing a tax burden they didn’t create. When you file a joint tax return, you are both “jointly and severally liable” for the taxes due, even if the debt is entirely a result of your spouse’s actions or income. This can be a devastating realization, especially if your spouse lied about their income or claimed false deductions.
At Professional Tax Resolution Experts, we understand that this is an incredibly stressful and emotionally charged issue. Our team, led by Lynn Quick, an Enrolled Agent (EA) and QuickBooks Pro Advisor with over 40 years of experience, has helped more than 10,000 clients find relief from unfair tax debt. We are here to guide you through the complexities of Innocent Spouse Relief and provide a clear path to a fresh start.
What is Innocent Spouse Relief?
Innocent Spouse Relief is a tax provision that can provide a way out of joint tax liability for individuals who filed a joint return. It’s designed to protect a spouse from being held responsible for tax debt that they had no knowledge of or reason to know about. There are three types of relief you might qualify for:
- Innocent Spouse Relief: This is the most common form of relief. To qualify, you must be able to prove that you didn’t know, and had no reason to know, about the errors on the tax return. The errors must be due to your spouse’s unreported income or false deductions.
- Separation of Liability: This relief option divides the tax underpayment on a joint return between you and your former spouse. It is generally available to those who are divorced, legally separated, or have not lived together for at least 12 months.
- Equitable Relief: This is a broad category for those who don’t qualify for the other two options. The IRS may grant this relief if it would be unfair to hold you liable for the tax debt, based on all the facts and circumstances of your case.
How to Qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief
Qualifying for Innocent Spouse Relief is a complex process. The IRS will look at several factors to determine if you are eligible, including:
- Knowledge: Did you know about the underreported income or false deductions?
- Benefits: Did you receive a significant benefit from the underpayment of tax (e.g., using the money to pay for your children’s college tuition)?
- Abuse: Was there spousal abuse or financial abuse in the relationship?
- Financial Hardship: Would holding you liable for the debt cause you financial hardship?
Proving these factors to the IRS is not easy. It requires meticulous documentation and strong communication. This is why having an experienced professional on your side is critical.
Don’t Face the IRS Alone
The IRS can be an intimidating force, especially when dealing with such personal and sensitive issues. The forms are complicated, the required documentation is extensive, and the negotiation process is difficult.
At Professional Tax Resolution Experts, we have a deep understanding of tax law and IRS procedures. Our team will:
- Determine Your Eligibility: We will conduct a thorough review of your situation to determine which type of relief you qualify for.
- Gather Your Evidence: We will help you gather the necessary documentation and evidence to build a compelling case.
- Represent You: We will act as your advocate, handling all communication with the IRS so you never have to speak with them directly.
Our extensive expertise in Audit Representation and Tax Debt Relief means we can confidently navigate your case and work tirelessly to protect your financial future. We are committed to providing you with a customized strategy that brings you peace of mind and allows you to move forward.
If you believe you are being unfairly burdened by your spouse’s tax debt, don’t wait. Take charge of your situation today. Professional Tax Resolution Experts is your trusted partner. Proudly serving greater Atlanta and all of Georgia.
Call us today at (770) 902-6079 for a free, confidential consultation.
