Instructions to Filing IRS Innocent Spouse Relief

Filing the correct way for innocent spouse relief is an absolute must to be successful in receiving this type of tax relief. If your request is rejected, you probably won't be able to attempt to qualify for it again for that tax year. When making your request you need to know how you specifically meet the requirements in order to qualify. If you don't qualify for the "classic" type of relief keep in mind that there are 2 other types of innocent spouse relief.

To apply for spouse relief with with internal revenue services, you must file IRS form 8857. If you read you need form 1250, that is not true, no longer required. With form 8857 you will be able to request classic innocent spouse relief, equitable relief and separation of liability. If you apply for one and you do not qualifying for others, the IRS might qualify you for all types of innocent spouse. You can apply for more than one type though, so apply for all that you meet the requirements for. Better to be safe than sorry because once lost you cannot take back.

Be honest when filling out form 8857. The form will find out detailed personal information and will be scrutinized to see if you actually qualify. Some sections on this form may require you to answer personal and sensitive information. This type of relief is not easy to get and this information is a must. Before filling this out, make sure you read the requirements for this type of relief so you can answer the questions in ways to stress how you qualify.

Send a letter as well with your form 8857 to help with your case. A letter will clarify your situation and point out a particular items that may not have been made clear in form 8857. The more the better because the IRS has final say. This relief is not a set formula, actual IRS employees deal with these cases instead of computers. The IRS takes this on a case by case basis and heavily weighs individual circumstances.

In summary, be very thorough when applying for this type of relief. Study the qualifications needed to qualify for each type of relief, make specific examples of how you meet each of the IRS specific qualifications. Go the distance required to provide an additional explanation in a letter. The more examples and support you show the better. If you are having a hard time understanding all of the qualifications, consider a tax specialists.