INNOCENT SPOUSE RELIEF DR PHILLIPS

You signed the joint return because you trusted your spouse. Now, perhaps after a separation, a notice arrives at your home in Dr. Phillips about income you never knew existed. It can feel deeply unfair. Innocent spouse rules exist for situations like this, although not everyone qualifies.

Why you can be held responsible

Signing a joint return generally makes both spouses responsible for the whole tax bill, including any later additions. A divorce decree that assigns the debt to your former spouse does not bind the IRS.

Which relief might fit?

Innocent spouse relief looks at whether you knew or should have known about the error. Separation of liability can divide the additional tax if you are divorced, widowed or separated. Equitable relief may help when the first two do not apply, including some cases where the tax was reported but not paid.

Do not delay

You request relief on Form 8857. Time limits apply, and some requests must generally be made within two years after the IRS first attempts to collect from you.

A private conversation

These cases are often painful, and we treat them with discretion. Call to make an appointment at our W. Sand Lake Road office, and we can talk through your notices, returns and options.

Your neighbor on W. Sand Lake Road. Our office is at 7380 W. Sand Lake Road, Suite 500, Orlando, FL 32819. Call 407-720-7220 or send us a message to make an appointment.