In this article, you can discover…
- When an IRS officer might visit you, and what to expect.
- Your legal rights when visited by an IRS officer.
- How soon after a visit from the IRS should you reach out to an attorney.
Who Are IRS Revenue Officers And Why Might They Visit Me?
Revenue Officers are IRS employees who are specifically assigned to collect on balances due. If you have a Revenue Officer assigned to your case, this means that the situation is quite serious, often involving large debts or a history of non-compliance. Once your case is assigned to a Revenue Officer, that agent will begin contacting you directly. A Revenue Officer may visit you in person, contact you by phone, or issue notices to you as they make every effort to collect on what is owed.
Can A Revenue Officer Legally Enter My Home Or Business?
Yes, IRS Revenue Officers are legally authorized to visit you at your home and/or business. Most of the time, you will receive a letter in the mail ahead of time scheduling a visit, but this is not required. While less common than in the past, an IRS Revenue officer can still show up unannounced at your home or business.
What Are My Legal Rights During An IRS Revenue Officer Visit?
One, you have the right to tell the IRS agent that you want legal representation. Two, you have the legal right to remain silent and not speak to the agent or answer their questions. If an agent shows up at your home or business, tell them that you want to seek counsel, get their name and contact information, and reach out to a tax attorney for help.
If you do choose to answer some questions from an IRS Revenue Officer, only answer the questions that they directly ask you. Don’t offer up too much information and, above all, don’t lie to them. If you’re not truthful with the IRS, this could lead to a criminal referral. In the end, it’s generally best to allow your tax attorney to respond to any officer’s questions to ensure you don’t inadvertently harm your case.
Attorney John Ecton is a caring, trusted tax attorney serving the Carolinas. Since 2013, she’s helped clients just like you prepare ahead for a visit from the IRS and handled these conversations for her clients with skill and an eye on their rights as taxpayers.
Have questions, or in need of legal help? Reach out to Ecton Law Firm, PA for an initial consultation today.
How Soon Should I Hire A Tax Attorney After Being Contacted By A Revenue Officer?
Hire a tax attorney immediately. A visit from an IRS Revenue Officer means that the IRS is taking your case extremely seriously and that you need legal help.
What Documents Should I Prepare Before Meeting With An IRS Revenue Officer?
Many times, the IRS Revenue Officer will issue notices to let you know which forms or documents you’re missing. In most cases, the IRS will focus on missing returns and balances due.
You should also prepare at least six months of financial information, including income, expenses, and assets. If you have a large balance owed to the IRS, they will typically want this information to determine what you can pay on that balance.
Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?
For more information on IRS revenue officer visits in the Carolinas, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (803) 771-9800 And North Carolina (980) 677-1099 today.
