When you sign a joint tax return, you’re agreeing to be equally responsible for everything on it, even if your spouse (or ex-spouse) made mistakes, left out income, or claimed improper deductions without your knowledge. In some cases, this can leave you facing significant tax debt, penalties, and interest for something you didn’t do.
Fortunately, the IRS offers a way out: Innocent Spouse Relief. As a tax attorney in Washington, DC, James Kraehenbuehl helps individuals use this provision to protect themselves from unfair tax liability.
What Is Innocent Spouse Relief?
Innocent Spouse Relief allows you to request that the IRS remove your responsibility for tax, interest, and penalties when your spouse (or former spouse) is the one at fault for errors on a joint return. If granted, it can protect your income and assets from collection actions.
Common Situations Where It Applies
You may qualify if:
- Your spouse failed to report income without your knowledge.
- Deductions or credits were claimed that you had no reason to suspect were improper.
- You were unaware of the incorrect items on the return when you signed it.
- Holding you liable would be unfair given the circumstances.
Types of Relief Available
There are three main forms of relief, and Mid-Atlantic Law and Tax can help you determine which applies:
- Innocent Spouse Relief – For cases where your spouse is solely responsible for an error.
- Separation of Liability Relief – For taxpayers who are divorced, separated, or no longer living with their spouse, and want to split the tax responsibility.
- Equitable Relief – For cases that don’t meet the strict requirements above but where fairness demands relief.
Why Work with a Tax Attorney Instead of Handling It Alone?
Applying for Innocent Spouse Relief involves strict deadlines, detailed paperwork, and a need to prove your lack of knowledge and involvement. Attorney James Kraehenbuehl offers:
- Case evaluation to determine the strongest grounds for your claim.
- Evidence gathering to support your position.
- IRS representation so you don’t have to deal directly with tax agents.
- Protection of your rights if the IRS challenges your request.
Protect Your Future — Act Quickly
The IRS generally requires you to apply within two years of the date it first tried to collect the tax from you. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to relief.
If you believe you shouldn’t be held responsible for your spouse’s tax mistakes, contact Mid-Atlantic Law and Tax today at 202-978-2888 to schedule a confidential consultation. Attorney James Kraehenbuehl will review your case and fight to protect your income, assets, and peace of mind.
