What is Innocent Spouse Relief?

When you file a joint tax return, both you and your spouse are equally responsible for the accuracy of the return and any tax debt. However, if your spouse (or ex-spouse) made mistakes or engaged in fraudulent tax activities without your knowledge, the IRS may hold you liable for the resulting tax debt. Innocent Spouse Relief protects you from being held responsible for those tax liabilities.

This relief program can apply to taxes, interest, and penalties related to:

• Underreported income (your spouse didn’t report all income)
• Overstated deductions or credits
• Errors in tax calculations

Do You Qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief?

To qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief, you must meet certain criteria:

• You filed a joint tax return: Innocent Spouse Relief is only available if you filed a joint return with the spouse in question.
• You didn’t know about the error: You must prove that when you signed the return, you were unaware of the inaccurate or incomplete reporting of income or deductions by your spouse.
• It’s unfair to hold you liable: The IRS considers whether it would be unfair to hold you responsible for the tax debt, based on all the facts and circumstances.

Other factors the IRS may consider:

• Whether you benefited from the underreported income
• Whether you were involved in preparing the return
• Your role in the household finances

If you believe you meet these qualifications, Cheshier Tax Resolution can help you apply for Innocent Spouse Relief and work to clear your name from the tax debt.

How Cheshier Tax Resolution Can Help.

Dealing with the IRS over joint tax issues can be complex and stressful, especially when you’re unaware of the errors made by your spouse or ex-spouse. At Cheshier Tax Resolution, we specialize in helping clients navigate the Innocent Spouse Relief process. We’ll:

• Evaluate Your Case: We’ll determine whether you meet the criteria for Innocent Spouse Relief and guide you on the best course of action.
• File the Necessary Forms: We handle all of the paperwork, including submitting Form 8857 (Request for Innocent Spouse Relief), along with the required supporting documentation.
• Negotiate with the IRS: We’ll represent you in all communications with the IRS and work to get you the relief you deserve.
• Explore Additional Options: If Innocent Spouse Relief isn’t a viable option for you, we’ll help explore other tax resolution solutions, such as Offer in Compromise or Installment Agreements.