Glen Frost, managing partner of Frost & Associates, was quoted in an article featured in the USA Today speaking on taxpayers rights. Most individuals are aware of the severe consequences they may face if they break a tax law, even if it was done accidentally. However, most aren’t well versed in the rules that the IRS must follow. Glen Frost says “It’s often helpful to reference these rights when talking with the IRS.” The key to this is knowing them.

The Taxpayer Bill of Rights was developed by the IRS in 2014 to make it easier to understand what the IRS is permitted to do. The Taxpayer Bill of Rights groups taxpayer rights into ten basic tenets. Under them, taxpayers have the right to:

Be informed. Quality service. Pay no more than the correct amount of tax. Challenge the IRS’s position and be heard. Appeal an IRS decision in an independent forum. Finality. Privacy. Confidentiality. Retain representation. A fair and just tax system.

Although IRS disputes are intimidating, you shouldn’t succumb to the pressure because you are able to challenge the agency and their decision. Taxpayers have the right to counsel which is a smart decision to make when dealing with the IRS. You should always investigate whether the charge is accurate and explore if there are ways to reduce or eliminate the total amount owed. An attorney who is knowledgeable in both the procedural and substantive tax rules necessary to successfully represent you can assist you in navigating through what rights and options you have.

Read the original article here.