Virginia Tax Lawyer Kevin E. Thorn Explains the Federal Tax Appeals Process

As a U.S. taxpayer, you have the right to challenge any IRS tax bill that you believe is either unfair or inaccurate. However, any such challenge will need to comply with strict guidelines and procedures. This is not something that is advisable for the taxpayer to do on their own. Legal representation will be necessary.

A taxpayer’s best option is to work with a proven Virginia tax lawyer who is familiar with the federal tax appeals process. The appeals process is far too complex for a non-lawyer to navigate on their own. And if litigation is necessary after the appeals process, having a highly-qualified tax attorney by your side is still crucial.

How Does the Federal Tax Appeals Process Work?

When an IRS audit results in an unfavorable decision for the taxpayer, the taxpayer has options to challenge that decision. The primary option is to file an appeal with the IRS Independent Office of Appeals (IRS Appeals).

IRS Appeals is a body within the IRS that was created with the purpose of resolving disputes between taxpayers and the IRS. It is a neutral body, which means that it does not take the side of either the taxpayer or the IRS.

If the tax bill at issue totals $25,000 or less, the taxpayer may file a small case request. Otherwise the taxpayer will need to file a formal protest. Small case requests are not available for the following types of taxpayer entities: employee plans, exempt organizations, partnerships and S corporations.

For either a small case request or formal protest, the taxpayer will need to strictly comply with IRS Appeals time limits and procedural rules. Virginia tax lawyer Kevin E. Thorn, Managing Partner at Thorn Law Group, can help taxpayers with this compliance requirement.

If the appeal is filed before the IRS deadline, a conference will be scheduled with the taxpayer and an IRS Appeals Officer. This conference can be by correspondence, telephone or in person. Your tax attorney can also provide vital representation during this conference.

How Can a Virginia Tax Lawyer Help With Your Federal Tax Appeal?

A skilled Virginia tax lawyer who is familiar with the IRS audit and appeal procedures can assist in numerous ways. The lawyer can ensure the appeal is filed on time and in compliance with all procedures of IRS Appeals. For the conference itself, the attorney can accompany the taxpayer or, even better, appear on the taxpayer’s behalf.

If the conference with the IRS Appeals Office does not result in a favorable agreement, the taxpayer’s next option is to file a petition with the U.S. Tax Court. Litigation in federal court is an extremely complex process, and your tax lawyer will need to be familiar with this forum.

Contact a Virginia Tax Lawyer at the Thorn Law Group for Your Federal Tax Appeal

If you are a Virginia taxpayer who wishes to challenge an unfavorable IRS audit decision, contact the Thorn Law Group today to speak with an experienced Virginia tax lawyer. We handle tax audits, disputes, appeals and, if necessary, tax court litigation. To schedule a confidential consultation, contact Kevin E. Thorn, Managing Partner, today at 703-752-3752.