Filing for Innocent Spouse Relief
Filing the correct way for innocent spouse relief is extremely important to be successful in receiving this type of tax relief. If your request is denied, you most likely will not be able to file for it again for that tax year. It is important to understand all of the requirements when filing for innocent spouse relief and making sure you point out how you qualify. If you do not qualify for innocent spouse relief, it is possible that you may qualify for equitable relief or separation of liability.
In order to apply for innocent spouse relief with with IRS, you must file IRS form 8857. With this one form you can request innocent spouse relief, equitable relief and separation of liability. If you apply for one do not qualifying, the IRS may consider you for other types, but you are more likely to be accepted if you apply for all of those which you feel may apply to you. It is important to apply to all you may qualify for as a precaution, because if your request is denied you will not be able to file again for these types of relief for the tax year/years you applied.
When filing form 8857 it is also important to answer the open ended questions because is required by the IRS to make a determination about your case. Before filling this out, make sure you read the requirements for this type of relief so you can answer the questions in ways to stress how you qualify.
In addition to filing form 8857, it would is beneficial to send a letter as well. A letter can help clarify your situation and point out a particular items that may not have been made clear in form 8857. Remember, the IRS is the final say in determining if you will receive the relief. There isn't necessarily a set formula in which you are guaranteed relief. The IRS considers this type of relief on a case by case basis.
In summary, be very thorough when applying for innocent spouse relief (equitable relief or separation by of liability). Read through all of the requirements needed qualify for each type of relief, make specific examples of how you meet each of the IRS specific qualifications. Go the extra mile to provide an additional explanation in a letter. Being thorough will increase you chances of success in filing. If you are having a hard time understanding all of the qualifications, consider a tax specialists.
In order to apply for innocent spouse relief with with IRS, you must file IRS form 8857. With this one form you can request innocent spouse relief, equitable relief and separation of liability. If you apply for one do not qualifying, the IRS may consider you for other types, but you are more likely to be accepted if you apply for all of those which you feel may apply to you. It is important to apply to all you may qualify for as a precaution, because if your request is denied you will not be able to file again for these types of relief for the tax year/years you applied.
When filing form 8857 it is also important to answer the open ended questions because is required by the IRS to make a determination about your case. Before filling this out, make sure you read the requirements for this type of relief so you can answer the questions in ways to stress how you qualify.
In addition to filing form 8857, it would is beneficial to send a letter as well. A letter can help clarify your situation and point out a particular items that may not have been made clear in form 8857. Remember, the IRS is the final say in determining if you will receive the relief. There isn't necessarily a set formula in which you are guaranteed relief. The IRS considers this type of relief on a case by case basis.
In summary, be very thorough when applying for innocent spouse relief (equitable relief or separation by of liability). Read through all of the requirements needed qualify for each type of relief, make specific examples of how you meet each of the IRS specific qualifications. Go the extra mile to provide an additional explanation in a letter. Being thorough will increase you chances of success in filing. If you are having a hard time understanding all of the qualifications, consider a tax specialists.
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