At the heart of our organization’s mission lies a commitment to advocacy. Every year, we help thousands of individuals and tax professionals navigate the complex landscape of federal taxes with confidence and clarity. This story is just one of many examples of how the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) helps resolve taxpayer issues. All personal details have been removed to protect the privacy of the taxpayer.

A taxpayer who became disabled after working as a first responder contacted TAS for help after the IRS denied the taxpayer’s claim for refund. The taxpayer had filed Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, to properly report their pension income as non-taxable. Upon receipt of the taxpayer’s inquiry, TAS asked the IRS to reconsider the taxpayer’s claim and provided documentation that the pension income was not taxable. However, the IRS again denied the claim. TAS continued to advocate in the best interest of the taxpayer by explaining their appeal rights and encouraging them to request an appeal. Empowered by TAS, the taxpayer filed an appeal, and the Independent Office of Appeals overturned the IRS’s decision and removed the non-taxable pension from income.

TAS’s advocacy protected the taxpayer’s rights to pay no more than the correct amount of tax, to challenge the IRS’s position and be heard, to appeal an IRS decision in an independent forum, and to a fair and just tax system. The taxpayer, who is suffering a long-term illness due to their work as a first responder, finally received their much-needed refund thanks to the tireless advocacy of their assigned case advocate.

Today, tomorrow, and beyond, we remain steadfast in our dedication to making a difference – one taxpayer, one success story at a time. Read more TAS success stories.

Learn more about whether TAS can help you: Can TAS help me with my tax issue?