IRS Innocent Spouse Assistance

Just because you chose your partner doesn’t mean you need to take on their past tax obligations. Innocent Spouse Relief allows you to protect yourself from their tax debts while continuing your life together.

Understanding IRS Innocent Spouse Relief

Full tax debt forgiveness is rare, but in certain cases, the IRS may grant relief through Innocent Spouse Assistance. To qualify, you need to show that your spouse or ex-spouse underreported income or misclaimed deductions/credits without your knowledge. If you’re still married, demonstrating your lack of awareness can be challenging, especially if you signed the tax return. Many cases involve individuals who are no longer together.

Additionally, the IRS provides several other spousal relief options, including:

Separation of Liability Relief

This option divides the tax responsibility between you and your spouse, so you’re only accountable for your portion.

Injured Spouse Relief

If your refund was applied to your spouse’s debt, such as child support, you can reclaim your portion by filing an injured spouse claim.

Equitable Relief

For situations where other relief options don’t apply, the IRS may determine it’s unfair to hold you responsible for your spouse’s taxes.

If your spouse’s tax obligations are causing financial strain, Sky View Tax Resolution can guide you in choosing the right relief option.

Eligibility for Innocent Spouse Relief

To qualify, you must meet specific IRS requirements. You may be relieved of your spouse’s or ex-spouse’s tax debt if all the following apply:

You filed a joint tax return for the year(s) in question.

The tax debt is due to errors or omissions made by your spouse or ex-spouse.

You had no knowledge or involvement in the mistakes reported on the joint return.

Considering all circumstances, it would be unfair to hold you accountable for the debt.

You and your spouse (current or former) did not transfer property to evade taxes.

Accurate documentation is essential when submitting an Innocent Spouse Relief request. Providing false information can lead to serious consequences. Sky View Tax Resolution’s experts can file your request on your behalf, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

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“Sky View Tax Resolution helped us resolve years of tax problems that had become overwhelming. We were treated with professionalism and care, and all issues were resolved legally and efficiently. We are now fully compliant and relieved of our tax burdens. Thank you!”
— Katherine W.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Innocent Spouse Relief

How long does it take to receive Innocent Spouse Relief?

After submitting Form 8857, the IRS may take up to six months to process your request. During this period, they will review your records and may contact your spouse or ex-spouse.

If I’m separated or divorced, am I still liable for my ex-spouse’s tax debt?

Regardless of your marital status, joint tax filings during your marriage may make you liable. Innocent Spouse Relief can help relieve this responsibility under certain conditions.

Is there a deadline to file for Innocent Spouse Relief?

Form 8857 must generally be filed within two years of the IRS’s first attempt to collect the tax. Exceptions exist, and our tax specialists can guide you through them.

Will the IRS contact my spouse or ex-spouse if I apply?

Yes, the IRS will reach out to your spouse or former spouse, who may provide information relevant to your Innocent Spouse Relief claim.

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