At the heart of our organization’s mission lies a commitment to advocacy. Every year, we help thousands of individuals and tax professionals navigate the complex landscape of federal taxes with confidence and clarity. This story is just one of many examples of how the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) helps resolve taxpayer issues. All personal details have been removed to protect the privacy of the taxpayer.

A taxpayer contacted TAS because the IRS had been levying their Social Security benefits for payment of an outstanding tax liability. The taxpayer was facing an economic hardship and needed the Social Security income for their necessary living expenses.

The assigned case advocate determined that because of the taxpayer’s financial hardship, the IRS should release the levy. The case advocate developed a persuasive recommendation to not only release the levy but to suspend collection on the account and issue a refund for the last two years’ levy payments, the maximum allowed by law.

The IRS agreed to release the levy, report the account as currently not collectible, and refund the last two years’ levy payments to alleviate the taxpayer’s financial hardship.

In this case, TAS advocated to protect the taxpayer’s rights to challenge the IRS’s position and be heard and to a fair and just tax system. Read more about Taxpayer Rights.

Today, tomorrow, and beyond, we remain steadfast in our dedication to making a difference – one taxpayer, one success story at a time. Read more TAS success stories.

Learn more about whether TAS can help you: Can TAS help me with my tax issue?