Has anyone ever used a tax relief/negotiating

[Upthevibe]

organization?

A good friend of mine owes between $30-40,000 for last year because she sold her condo and she mishandled the tax situation.

Thanks for any input/advise you can give.

[Wonder Why]

1. When I make mistakes, I pay my taxes. One year, I failed to file my state

tax. I filled it out and never mailed it in. I was due a nice refund. I only found out when the state contacted me about it - which was, of course, after the point when the payer can get the refund (I think it was 3 years). Had I owed them money, I would have been obligated to pay but they owed me money but it was too late.

My mistake. My responsibility. Tell her to pay her taxes.

[Beakybird]

2. There's sooo much fraud. Do your research.

I would consider getting a tax lawyer. That's what my dad did for my brother, and they were able to substantially reduce his penalties and interest.

[Upthevibe]

5. Beakybird........

Thank you!

I will suggest that she get a lawyer...

[viva la]

3. The irs can be merciful.

They will arrange a payment plan often. Have her talk to them preliminarially.

[Upthevibe]

6. viva la.......

Thank you!

That's my understanding as well.

[viva la]

9. I know from experience...

a grandparent's situation.
It took a while to pay off, but there was no threat of jailing or bankruptcy or anything like that.

[alwaysinasnit]

4. Possible resource.

https://www.irs.gov/advocate/local-taxpayer-advocate

The Taxpayer Advocate Service is an independent organization within the IRS and is your voice at the IRS. Our job is to ensure that every taxpayer is treated fairly, and that you know and understand your rights as a taxpayer. We offer free help to guide you through the often-confusing process of resolving tax problems that you haven't been able to solve on your own. Remember, the worst thing you can do is nothing at all.

TAS can help if you can't resolve your problem with the IRS and:

Your problem is causing financial difficulties for you, your family, or your business.
You face (or your business is facing) an immediate threat of adverse action.
You've tried repeatedly to contact the IRS but no one has responded to you, or the IRS hasn't responded by the date promised.

Each state has at least one Local Taxpayer Advocate who is independent of the local IRS office and reports directly to the National Taxpayer Advocate. Select your state below to find the phone number and address of the Taxpayer Advocate Service office nearest you.

snip...


(Emphasis is mine)

[Upthevibe]

7. alwaysinasnit.....

Thank you!

This is excellent information!

[alwaysinasnit]

8. I wish your friend good luck, and you are a good friend for helping her.