Taxpayer Bill of Rights

We all know about the original Bill of Rights drafted by James Madison in 1789 to ensure that the freedoms we enjoy every day are protected, but did you know there’s a Taxpayer Bill of Rights specifically outlining your rights as a taxpayer? Adopted by the IRS in 2014, this document outlines ten basic rights to which every taxpayer is entitled. In this article, we’ll cover each of them as well as their importance.

1. The right to be informed

As a taxpayer, you are entitled to clear explanations of the tax laws in any form of documentation that comes from the IRS. This includes tax forms, instructions, publications, notices, and even correspondence. This point ensures that all taxpayers are informed of what they need to do in order to properly file taxes.

2. The right to Quality Service

Get your Karen pants on, because you have a right to speak with a supervisor about inadequate service. At the IRS, inadequate service can include failure to communicate clearly and being uncourteous. In fact, since you have a right to quality service, inadequate service from the IRS is a violation of those rights.

3. The Right to Pay No More than the Correct Amount of Tax

While you certainly can give more of your hard-earned income to the IRS, you have a right not to, and we generally don’t recommend it. If you pay more than is legally due, you are entitled to a refund from the IRS.

4. The Right to Challenge the IRS’s Position and Be Heard

If you believe that the IRS has made an error in their position in claiming you owe more than you have paid, you have a right to object. Additionally, you are entitled to a prompt response from the IRS if you object.

5. The Right to Appeal an IRS Decision in an Independent Forum

We’re taking this one to court. If you feel as though you’ve been wronged by the IRS, an attorney can help you challenge this decision in an independent forum.

6. The Right to Finality

The IRS is required to disclose all deadlines to you, including deadlines to challenge and appeal their decisions. You also have a right to know how long the IRS has to audit you or collect a debt from you, as well as when they finish an audit.

7. The Right to Privacy

Your rights from the original bill of rights apply to the IRS as well. All IRS Investigations must comply with due processes of the law, and they must not violate your protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.

8. The Right to Confidentiality

The information you give to the IRS should never be disclosed, unless you authorize it or the law requires it. You should expect the IRS to take action against anyone who wrongfully discloses your information.

9. The Right to Retain Representation

You have the right to retain an attorney or tax preparer of your choice when you deal with the IRS.

10. The Right to a Fair and Just Tax System

You have the right to expect the tax system to fairly consider all of the facts and circumstances related to your case.

Conclusion

Do you have a disputed claim with the IRS or feel as though your rights have been violated? Call Cornerstone Law Firm today. The attorneys are experienced in tax law and can help you challenge an improper opinion by the IRS.