What this is
When the IRS makes a decision you think is wrong, you often have the right to ask for a second look. That might be about how much you owe. Or it might be about what the IRS plans to do to collect.
Most of these appeals go to the IRS Independent Office of Appeals. It’s part of the IRS, but separate from the people who made the decision. Their job is to settle disputes fairly, without a court case. Some cases can go further, to the U.S. Tax Court. That’s a federal court, not part of the IRS.
First, we check what you really owe
An appeal is often the best chance to fight the number itself. In a Collection Due Process hearing, which you request after a final notice, you can sometimes dispute the tax. That’s usually when you never got a formal notice of the tax, or never had another chance to fight it. So before we argue about how the IRS collects, we check whether the bill is right.
Who it fits
- You got a final notice before they take your money, and the plan is unfair or the bill is wrong.
- The IRS filed a lien, took money, or turned down a payment plan.
- An audit ended with changes you don’t agree with.
- You got a Notice of Deficiency.
What you’ll need to do
Send us the letter right away, and anything that backs up your side. We’ll file the written request, build the case, and handle the calls and meetings. Most appeals happen by phone, video, or mail.
How long it takes
It varies a lot. Some collection appeals move in weeks. Hearings and audit appeals often take months. A Tax Court case can take longer still. We’ll tell you what to expect for your case.
What can go wrong
The deadline passes. This is the big one. Many of these rights end on a fixed date, and the IRS can’t give you more time. The Tax Court can’t extend its own deadline either.
The wrong kind of appeal. Each kind can cover different issues. Picking one can sometimes keep you from raising the same issue in another. We choose with that in mind.
Appeals says no. It’s their call. Some decisions can then go to court. Others are final. We’ll tell you up front which kind you’re in.