The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that is committed to assisting taxpayers in resolving their problems with the agency. TAS offers a variety of free services, including help with dispute resolution, guidance through complex tax laws and regulations, and support for individuals experiencing financial difficulties due to tax-related issues.
One of the primary advantages of working with the Taxpayer Advocate Service is their expertise in navigating the often-complicated world of taxes and IRS regulations. TAS can help you understand your rights as a taxpayer and ensure your voice is heard in any disputes or negotiations with the agency. If you are struggling with tax-related issues, it is essential to know that you have options. Whether dealing with debts owed to the IRS or other tax-related problems, working with TAS can help you find a solution that works best for you.
If you have attempted to resolve your tax issues through standard IRS channels without success, or if you believe an IRS procedure or policy is not functioning correctly, TAS may be the right resource for you. They exist to help taxpayers negotiate with the IRS, providing an effective and convenient channel for communication between both parties. TAS plays a critical role in assisting taxpayers who cannot afford their taxes or debts owed to the IRS, working with both the taxpayer and the IRS to develop a mutually agreeable payment plan.
In this article, we will focus on the benefits that the Taxpayer Advocate Service can provide to those within the scope of the Employee Retention Credit (ERC). The TAS can offer guidance to taxpayers who have already filed their amended 941s and are seeking updates on their ERC refund status. Additionally, TAS can assist taxpayers who are having difficulties claiming the credit or who have had their ERC claim unfairly denied by the IRS.
After filing an amended 941, taxpayers may encounter various confusing forms, such as Form 6042, Form 2645, Form 2644, and Form 418c. TAS can answer your questions and provide additional assistance by accessing information related to your ERC claim, informing you of the current stage in the process. For taxpayers who have filed for their ERC but have been waiting months without any updates from the IRS, TAS can guide you through the process with regular updates and help expedite any delays or issues with your ERC filing.
It is important to emphasize that TAS provides its services entirely free of charge. While there are firms that offer similar services for a fee, TAS can provide the same level of support without any cost to the taxpayer. You do not need to be a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service. If you have filed your amended 941 and are growing impatient with the lack of communication between you and the IRS, we highly recommend reaching out to TAS.
To be eligible for TAS assistance, certain criteria must be met. One such criterion is experiencing a “systemic burden.” A systemic burden occurs when an IRS process, system, or procedure fails to operate as intended, resulting in the IRS’s inability to timely respond to or resolve a taxpayer’s issue. Typically, systemic burdens occur when the resolution of a taxpayer’s problem or inquiry is delayed more than 30 days beyond the normal response time for the particular action.
Please note that TAS is not designed to provide immediate relief or expedite the refund process. However, they can offer invaluable support to taxpayers in resolving their ERC-related problems and provide clarity on the situation.
To obtain assistance from TAS for an ERC-related matter, visit the TAS website at www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov. The website provides detailed information about the services offered by TAS, including the location of regional offices across the United States. Taxpayers can also call the TAS toll-free number at 877-777-4778, which operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. Additionally, taxpayers can complete Form 911, Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, and fax or mail it to the nearest TAS office.
