
Need help dealing with an IRS revenue officer? Please visit any of the following for more information.
Tax resolution services for small businesses and mid-size businesses (business tax resolution)
Legal representation before IRS collections
This is one of the most difficult things for me to advise you on how to do properly and effectively. Experience and knowledge of tax procedure have seasoned me throughout the years on when is an appropriate time to get tough with your revenue officer. The fact of the matter is that some revenue officers will try to take advantage of your weakened position and, if you let them, they will walk all over you. Some will go on a fishing expedition by requesting a ridiculous amount of documentation to substantiate the positions on your financial statement or for them to conduct their investigation. Some will take a hard line position by insisting on good faith payment amounts or monthly installment payment amounts that are too difficult for the taxpayer to meet without them suffering financial hardship.
As I mentioned, it is always better to be nice to the revenue officer and maintain an amicable relationship. However, sometimes this is not always possible and some people just need to be put into check. First, think long and hard about what the revenue officer is asking and why it is unreasonable. Being able to articulate this and advocate for your position is the only way you are going to win this battle, so you want to make sure you have a clear leg to stand on. Do some basic research on tax procedure if you can (if you can cite a code section or the IRM then it is possible that they might back off). If the revenue officer does not seem to be backing down or you are truly at an impasse, then do not be afraid to get the revenue officer’s manager involved. The manager will tell you like it is and good ones will put their less experienced revenue officers in check. Use this tactic sparingly though. No one likes to get in trouble with their boss and you may strain further relations with your revenue officer by resorting to this tactic. Sometimes, however, they will respect you more and you will start getting better results because of it. Weigh the gamble and do not be afraid to get tough.
In closing, I hope that these tips have been helpful for you in learning how I deal with revenue officers. My goal here was to assist you in achieving better results and to minimize the stress that an IRS collection matter can put on your life. No one particularly likes dealing with a revenue officer, but you can significantly reduce the headache involved by working quickly and effectively and by following some of the guidelines that I have shared. As I stated earlier, revenue officer matters can sometimes be particularly difficult to deal with and I would encourage you to contact me or your local tax professional if you get into trouble. Sometimes even a brief chat with an expert can greatly aid in finding a solution.
Tax resolution services for small businesses and mid-size businesses (business tax resolution)
Legal representation before IRS collections
"Sam is a wonderful, results-oriented and extremely knowledgeable and talented attorney, who really has 'heart' in working on behalf of his clients, and explains options in a straightforward, respectful manner. He has assisted us with great outcomes which have added to our quality of life. I would not hesitate to recommend Sam for his services as he is an ethical, personable and expert attorney in his field. You will likely not be disappointed with Sam's work ethic, approach and his efforts."
-Aileen Dwight, Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Psychotherapist
Last updated: June 3, 2023
Our best stuff: secrets, tax saving tools, and tax defense strategies from the braintrust at Brotman Law.
These ten big ideas will change the way you think about your taxes and your business.
Find the articles and videos you need to make the right tax decisions in the learning center.
It is not just about what we do, but who we are, why we do it, and how that benefits you.
Meet with us to outline your strategy. No further obligation, 100% money-back guarantee.
In an ideal world, everyone would be able to pay their taxes in full and on time, but sometimes it...
13 min read
It is my firmly held belief that everyone should have access to good, top quality legal...
4 min read
The first “Tax Master Class,” masterminded and hosted by Sam Brotman, took place on Thursday, April...
23 min read
We'll answer your most pressing tax law questions in 15 minutes. Please choose a time below that works best for you.
IRS Circular 230 Disclosure: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the IRS, I must inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this website is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter contained in this website.
COMMENTS