| What if your ex-spouse or your spouse filed the | | | | also the time when the IRS will start with the collection |
| wrong returns? Alternatively, perhaps the IRS found | | | | activities. You will need the services of an expert, an |
| some errors on the filings? You have an option for tax | | | | attorney who will defend you. You see, your ex will be |
| debt relief, which is called Innocent Spouse. | | | | sent a copy of your claims, and he can dispute it. |
| Here's a typical example - your ex-spouse pulled out | | | | Once your ex spouse disputes your claims, the |
| $100,000 in his 401K. In the process, he didn't take out a | | | | process will only become complicated. Without an |
| tax on the distribution and this information was not | | | | attorney, your efforts will just go to waste. If you |
| known to you. On that year, you also filed joint returns | | | | decide to opt for the Innocent Spouse, you should |
| and so that makes you liable for the tax that is due | | | | already hire a competent attorney. |
| within the year. Now that you're separated, the IRS is | | | | Your attorney will represent you through the process |
| pursuing you for your tax debts. | | | | until you've finally secured such an option. If you're |
| You can file for the innocent spouse relief, but you | | | | innocent, you will surely get the attention of the IRS. If |
| have to prove that you are innocent. The agency will | | | | you can beat your spouse's dispute, you are now |
| not easily believe that you're innocent, and so you | | | | innocent and your ex will be liable for the entire tax |
| have to prove to the IRS. In order to qualify, you should | | | | debts. |
| be able to show that the erroneous deductions or | | | | So what are you waiting for? Work with a competent |
| omitted income was from your spouse, and that you | | | | attorney now and file for the Innocent Spouse. |
| were not aware of it when you signed the return. | | | | Prepare to defend yourself because you're in for a |
| These are two requirements that you should meet. | | | | battle. The tax debt relief can benefit you a lot, and |
| Secure the form 8857 within 2 years because this is | | | | you can also get back at your ex spouse! |