Innocent spouse relief is an IRS program that may protect one spouse from certain joint liabilities in defined situations. If you filed jointly and did not know or had no reason to know about an understatement, or if it would be inequitable to hold you responsible, relief may be available. We review your transcripts, returns, documents, and deadlines, then recommend the most suitable path and prepare the submission.
You typically request relief using Form 8857. Our process: Protection and Setup: after engagement and authorization, we contact the IRS to address enforcement where possible, confirm deadlines, and pull your transcripts. Investigation and Strategy:
We analyze balances, penalties, collection statutes, and filings, review your facts and documents, and advise which of the three paths fits and why. Resolution and Compliance: We prepare Form 8857 and your supporting packet, submit it to the IRS, monitor the case, respond to IRS requests, represent you in appeals if needed, and coordinate next steps if partial relief is granted.
Start with our explainer: What Is Form 8857 and How Do I Qualify? If you received levy or lien notices tied to a spouse’s actions, tell us during your review so we can incorporate that into the plan.
Timeframes vary by case complexity and IRS workload. We set expectations up front, provide regular updates, and, if your case requires it, handle appeals and next steps. No guaranteed timelines.
If the IRS is levying a joint bank account or threatening collection while you pursue relief, we address enforcement in parallel. After engagement and authorization, we contact the IRS to seek available protection and outline options.
Prefer to start with documents? Request your free IRS transcript, typically within 1 business day after authorization, and we’ll assess your options, including innocent spouse relief.
Rush Tax Resolution is a private firm, not affiliated with the IRS or any government agency. No guaranteed outcomes. Results vary by case.
