How to Request Innocent Spouse Relief

Are you interested in filing for innocent spouse relief? If so, you need to know how to request this. After all, the IRS is not going to just agree to this sort of arrangement. You need to take the proper steps to ensure that nothing gets mixed up along the way.

First things first, you need to file Form 8857. This will start the process, and will show the IRS that you are serious about getting started. Once you file this form you are pretty much out of the equation. Just like everything else, such as an installment agreement or offer in compromise, you need to give the IRS time to review your request and make a determination. Some people will receive innocent spouse relief, but others will get shut down.

When should I file for innocent spouse relief? You should do this as soon as you find out that there is a tax liability that you do not feel you are responsible for. Obviously, the sooner you decide on this the better off you are going to be. There are many ways that you may become aware of such a debt. They include: when the IRS sends you a notice of liability; when the IRS proposes to increase your liability after reviewing your return. It does not matter how you come across this situation as long as you do so, and then begin to take the proper steps.

You have two years to file for innocent spouse relief after the IRS first tried to collect from you. For this reason, you do not want to delay. If two years passes you no longer have the ability to file for innocent spouse relief. Instead, you simply have to pay what you owe and try to work things out with your spouse.

If you are worried about the steps that go along with filing for innocent spouse relief you should hire a tax professional. A professional can tell you if you qualify for innocent spouse relief, help you file the right forms and paperwork, and do what they can to help you get what you want.

Request for Innocent Spouse Relief
Details on how to request innocent spouse relief. Links to forms and details on letters you should include