Are You Eligible for Innocent Spouse Relief?

Tax issues can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re caught in the middle of someone else’s mistakes.

If your spouse or ex-spouse made errors or engaged in fraudulent activity on your joint tax return, you could find yourself unfairly liable for taxes, penalties, and interest. Fortunately, the IRS offers a potential remedy through Innocent Spouse Relief.

What is Innocent Spouse Relief?
Innocent Spouse Relief is an IRS provision that helps individuals who filed a joint tax return, but are not responsible for errors or understatements on that return. It allows you to be released from the tax obligations caused by your spouse or ex-spouse’s actions.

Who Can Qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief?

To be eligible for Innocent Spouse Relief, you must meet the following criteria:
– Joint Filing: You must have filed a joint tax return with your spouse or ex-spouse, and the taxes owed on that return were incorrectly reported.

– Lack of Awareness: At the time of signing the return, you must not have been aware of any inaccuracies in the tax information provided. You had no reason to believe the tax was misreported.

– Unfair Responsibility: It would be unreasonable to hold you accountable for the tax discrepancies, especially given the way assets and liabilities were divided between you and your spouse or ex-spouse.

The Different Types of Innocent Spouse Relief
The IRS offers three categories of Innocent Spouse Relief:
1. Full Innocent Spouse Relief: This is for cases where you had no knowledge or reason to suspect any underreporting of tax when the joint return was filed.

2. Separation of Liability Relief: In this case, the tax liability is divided between you and your spouse (or ex-spouse) based on your respective contributions to the income, deductions, and credits on the return.

3. Equitable Relief: If you don’t qualify for either of the above types, you may still be eligible for Equitable Relief. This is applied in situations where it would be unjust to hold you accountable for the tax debt, and the IRS assesses several factors to determine your eligibility.

How Do I Apply for Innocent Spouse Relief?

To apply, you need to file IRS Form 8857 (Request for Innocent Spouse Relief). Along with this form, you’ll need to provide supporting documents that back up your claim and a detailed explanation of why you believe you should receive relief.
Dealing with the IRS can be tricky, so having the help of a tax resolution expert who understands the nuances of the relief process can greatly enhance your chances of success. A knowledgeable professional can help you navigate the steps, ensure all required documentation is provided, and safeguard your rights throughout the process.

That’s where Aiysha Hayes at Hayes Tax Relief can help.
With over 8 years of experience in tax relief and resolution, Aiysha Hayes is highly experienced in handling cases like Innocent Spouse Relief. Based in Charlotte, NC, Aiysha specializes in helping clients resolve their IRS issues and will work directly with you to evaluate your eligibility for relief.

Don’t let tax issues hang over you. Reach out to Aiysha Hayes at Hayes Tax Relief today for a free consultation and start resolving your tax concerns now.