Taxpayer Advocate
Welcome to the Taxpayer Advocate page of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website. Here, we provide information and resources to help taxpayers navigate the complexities of the tax system and resolve any issues they may encounter.
Make a Difference for Low-Income Taxpayers
If you are a low-income taxpayer, you may qualify for an LITC Grant. These grants provide funding to organizations that offer free or low-cost legal assistance to taxpayers who need help resolving tax disputes with the IRS. Visit the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) website to see if you qualify for an LITC Grant and to find an organization near you.
Common Issues
We understand that taxpayers face a variety of challenges when it comes to their taxes. Here are some common issues that taxpayers may encounter:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Tax Updates
Stay up to date with the latest tax updates related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We provide information on tax relief measures, changes to filing deadlines, and other important updates.
Tax Refund Offsets
If you owe certain debts, such as unpaid child support or federal student loans, the IRS may offset your tax refund to satisfy these debts. Learn more about tax refund offsets and what you can do if your refund is offset.
I Can't Pay My Taxes
If you are unable to pay your taxes in full, there are options available to help you. We provide information on payment plans, installment agreements, and other options for taxpayers who are unable to pay their taxes in full.
I Don't Have My Refund
If you have not received your tax refund, there may be several reasons for the delay. We provide information on how to track your refund and what to do if you have not received it.
I Got a Notice from the IRS
Receiving a notice from the IRS can be intimidating, but it's important to address it promptly. We provide guidance on how to respond to IRS notices and what steps to take to resolve any issues.
I Want to Know About My Rights
As a taxpayer, you have certain rights when dealing with the IRS. We provide information on taxpayer rights and how to exercise them.
I Want to File for Free
If you meet certain income requirements, you may be eligible to file your taxes for free using IRS Free File. We provide information on how to determine if you qualify and how to access this free filing option.
I Made a Mistake on My Taxes
If you made a mistake on your tax return, it's important to correct it as soon as possible. We provide guidance on how to amend your tax return and what steps to take to rectify any errors.
I Have Questions About the Earned Income Tax Credit
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a valuable tax credit for low to moderate-income individuals and families. We provide information on eligibility requirements, how to claim the EITC, and answers to frequently asked questions.
News
Stay informed about the latest news and updates from the IRS. Here are some recent news articles:
- Consequences of not filing: Learn about the potential consequences of not filing your taxes and why it's important to meet your filing obligations.
- Resolving an Improper Employee Retention Credit: If you have received an improper Employee Retention Credit, TAS has information that can help you resolve this issue.
- The dizzying tax challenges for U.S. citizens or residents living abroad: Read the National Taxpayer Advocate's prior blogs on the tax challenges faced by U.S. citizens or residents living abroad.
About Us
Learn more about the Taxpayer Advocate Service and how we can help you. Here are some key points:
Who We Are
The Taxpayer Advocate Service is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers resolve problems with the IRS and ensures that taxpayers are treated fairly.
How We've Helped
We have helped thousands of taxpayers resolve their tax issues and navigate the tax system. Learn more about the ways in which we have assisted taxpayers.
Our Leadership
Meet the leaders of the Taxpayer Advocate Service and learn about their roles and responsibilities.
Report a Systemic Tax Issue
If you believe there is a systemic issue with the tax system that needs to be addressed, you can report it to us. We investigate systemic issues and work to find solutions.
History of the National Taxpayer Advocate
Learn about the history and evolution of the National Taxpayer Advocate and how it has worked to improve the tax system for taxpayers.
Resources
We provide a range of resources to help taxpayers. Here are some key resources:
How to Contact Your Advocate
If you need assistance with a tax issue, you can contact your local Taxpayer Advocate for help. We provide information on how to find and contact your advocate.
Know Your Rights
As a taxpayer, it's important to know your rights when dealing with the IRS. We provide information on taxpayer rights and how to exercise them.
Low Income Taxpayer Clinics
Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) provide free or low-cost legal assistance to low-income taxpayers who need help resolving tax disputes with the IRS. We provide information on LITCs and how to find one near you.
For Tax Pros
If you are a tax professional, we provide resources and information to help you assist your clients. This includes forms, instructions, and guidance on tax-related issues.
Reports and Information
We regularly provide reports to Congress and conduct research on tax-related issues. We also provide congressional testimony and offer access to the E-FOIA (Freedom of Information) system.
Social Media
Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates, news, and resources. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Thank you for visiting the Taxpayer Advocate page of the IRS website. We are here to help you navigate the tax system and resolve any issues you may have. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.