Having trouble with the IRS?

If you answered yes, the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is here to help!Believe it or not, most IRS issues can be resolved simply by communicating with the IRS. Often, a letter or phone call with complete information to back up your position will suffice, and if you use a CPA he or she will usually handle the communications for you.But if you’ve reached a stalemate, or if you’re facing an immediate action such as a notice of intent to levy, the TAS can step in to be your advocate.The TAS is an independent organization within the IRS, created to assist taxpayers (individual and business) whose tax problems are causing financial difficulty. The service is no cost to you and may even include the services of a tax attorney if it becomes necessary.Even better, after resolving your issue your advocate will make recommendations to prevent similar problems in the future.Each state has at least one TAS office, which can be found in Publication 1546 or by calling, toll-free, 877-777-4778. If you qualify for assistance you’ll be assigned an advocate to assist you throughout the entire process until the issue is resolved. The Taxpayer Advocate Service’s website can help you understand your rights, as well as point you to resources you may not have considered.IRS issues don’t go away by themselves, and doing nothing only compounds the problem. Seek assistance early and be proactive.  October 2014