When the IRS comes knocking it's best to make sure everything is in order. Yet that doesn't mean everything is in order on their end. Yes they are human too(though some think otherwise). Yes they also can make mistakes like any other human. So what do you do when their mistake would result in losing your hard earned cash? You protect yourself like you would in any other situation.

Time is not your friend here. In fact, time is your greatest enemy. You have only 30 days to appeal from the date on the forms you were sent. So get up off the couch and get to it! If you do not act with in those 30 days you're sunk. You will have very little if any other means to protect yourself. Pay attention to the sections detailing how to go about the appeal process before acting further.

Once you've clearly sorted out what errors are present it's time to answer some very important questions. When it comes to being represented in your appeal you actually have a number of options. Consider all of these options carefully. You could represent yourself, but this is quite the daunting task if you're not used to dealing with situations like these. You could be present with an attorney, but if money is an issue attorneys can really burn through your cash. Finally, the IRS can appoint someone to represent you. If you really don't know the IRS law very well it wouldn't be a bad idea to get a little help.

So what can you expect in this whole endeavor? First you will need to respond with a written protest of the fees you have been wrongfully accused of. This will get the ball rolling to the main phase of the show. You meet in an informal meeting with the IRS to make your case. Yet, should even this go sour you're not sunk yet.

So what is my final chance if all else fails? If all else fails you may take your case to court. There you will plead your case in front of a judge. Again this is the type of situation in which you may want to seek representation. The legal process can be confusing and time consuming. Yet a chance in court is better than no chance at all. This is your final hidden ace in the process of protecting yourself.

Learn more about this author, Dane Isaacs.
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