Navigating the IRS can be a challenge, but there’s a path to make it smoother.
A few years back, I took over my parents’ financial affairs, including their taxes. I notified the IRS about our change of address and obtained the necessary authorization to assist them with their tax matters. Then, a letter arrived from the IRS addressed to my parents, stating they hadn’t filed a tax return for 2015, even though they had paid some taxes for that year. The amount paid exceeded their owed amount. Also learn about IRS Tax Help Florida
While I managed to locate tax documents up until 2014, there was a noticeable gap for 2015, with some vital information missing. Doing my best, I prepared a 2015 tax return using the available data. I submitted it to the IRS along with a copy of the authorization document and a detailed explanation. Regrettably, I received no response regarding my status as their tax advocate. Instead, another letter arrived, expressing concern that a tax return had been filed under my dad’s Social Security number, but the IRS couldn’t process it due to insufficient information. My parents, residing in a place with limited communication access, couldn’t rectify this.
I reached out to the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) and sent a comprehensive letter along with essential documents to the nearest TAS office. Within a short span, I received a call from Miss Walker, an agent from TAS. She requested copies of the documents once more, as it seemed the previous batch hadn’t reached the IRS. Miss Walker set a follow-up date and I promptly sent the updated copies via email.
Just days before our scheduled follow-up, Miss Walker called again. The IRS couldn’t locate a record of the initial 2015 tax return submission. Since I filed it just before the deadline, providing proof of timely submission was crucial. Miss Walker asked if I had a receipt or any evidence of submission.
In fact, I possessed something even more compelling: a letter from the IRS confirming receipt of the document but stating they wouldn’t process it. It appeared the IRS had misplaced their own record of the letter and the associated document. I promptly forwarded a scan of the letter to Miss Walker. Within a few weeks, she confirmed that the letter constituted proof of timely submission. She assured me that she would instruct the IRS to process the return and determine any eligible refund.
I’m now eagerly awaiting news about my parents’ refund, and while I don’t anticipate swift resolution, I hold confidence that it’s on the horizon.
While the TAS might not have all the answers, if you’re grappling with IRS troubles and have done your utmost, they could be the lifeline you need. Reach out to them at 877-777-4778, or visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov and search for “Taxpayer Advocate Service.”
