Innocent Spouse Relief

Cerritos Tax Lawyer – Call (888) 235-5374

Is the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) coming after you over your spouse’s irresponsible financial decisions? Are you being investigated by the IRS in connection with your spouse’s alleged tax fraud? Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to clear your name under a procedure known as “innocent spouse relief.” At RJB Law Offices, our Cerritos tax attorneys understand the ins and outs of modern tax code and can provide the aggressive legal counsel you need to maximize your chances of securing a favorable outcome.

Why trust our team of world-class advocates? Consider the following reasons:

• More than 20 years of proven legal experience
• Glowing reviews from past clients
• “Excellent” Rating on Avvo
• Personalized, one-on-one advocacy

What Is Innocent Spouse Relief?

When married couples file their tax returns jointly, they can be held “jointly and severally liable” for the debts or illegitimate practices of either spouse. In other words, the government can purse action against either spouse in relation to the actions of the other. In some cases, however, spouses in certain circumstances who are unaware of their spouse’s actions may be protected from liability under an IRS program known as innocent spouse relief.

Innocent spouse relief can be used to clear you of responsibility for:

• Owed taxes
• Interest payments
• Levy andlien responsibilities
• Related penalties

Innocent Spouse Relief Eligibility

Eligibility for innocent spouse relief is determined on a case-by-case basis, with all applicants being required to submit to extensive auditing and meet numerous criteria. Those who seek innocent spouse relief must undergo a review of their education, work experience, mental capabilities, level of involvement in household finances, and relationship with the alleged offending spouse. If the IRS believes that a relief-seeking spouse had any knowledge of their spouse’s misdeeds, or if they benefited in any way from the misconduct, they will be denied relief and possibly face criminal prosecution.

To be granted innocent spouse relief, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Your taxes were understated due to the error of your spouse
2. You did not know of the understatement when you signed the return
3. The IRS must determine that it would be unfair to hold you liable for the understated taxes

Get a Powerful Advocate on Your Side

Any IRS-related matter can be a frightening ordeal, especially if you are being accused of fraud or are being pursued over debts you did not even know you had. At RJB Law Offices, our Cerritos debt negotiation lawyers understand the laws and regulations that influence your situation and can help you understand your legal options. Do not make the mistake of attempting to go toe-to-toe with the IRS alone. Let us handle the legal heavy lifting so you can achieve much needed peace of mind during this confusing time.