The team at Tax Tiger has over a decade of experience interfacing with the Internal Revenue Service. They understand that it’s a daunting task for most individuals and, without the proper preparation, is also a task that may produce little in the way of positive results. Here, Tax Tiger offers a few helpful hints that taxpayers can use when dealing with the IRS.
Reverence Equals Results
Respect, esteem, and common courtesy; these simple gestures are often welcomed in a big way by weary IRS professionals, says Tax Tiger CEO Kathy Hill. When most taxpayers are in a position where they must speak with the IRS, they are usually in offense mode and these hardworking government employees take the brunt of their frustration. Tax Tiger suggests showing an interest in, and sincerely respecting, their job.
Silence is Golden
This doesn’t mean to sit quietly on the other end of the line, says Tax Tiger. However, some words are better left unspoken and in the case of the IRS, it’s best not to divulge any potentially damaging information unless explicitly asked. The only exception to this rule is when dealing with a personal tragedy that is the root cause contributing to an IRS problem, says Tax Tiger. Allowing some intimate details to slip out here and there might garner some sympathy from the agent.
Don’t Dismiss Documentation
Tax Tiger says that Uncle Sam is going to want to see at least the last three months’ worth of banking statements associated with the account in question. It’s vital that these correspond to the taxpayer’s reported income and that all inconsistencies are accounted for prior to opening a dialogue with the IRS. According to Tax Tiger, even the smallest deposits are subject to scrutiny. Preparation here is of the utmost importance and ensuring that all documentation is in order is paramount to having a successful outcome with the IRS, says Tax Tiger.
Initiate with Inquisition
The agent is going to ask a lot of questions, says Tax Tiger. Before they are afforded that chance, make sure to ask them for their name and IRS Identification number, for your reference. This information can help if there are discrepancies later. As well, Tax Tiger notes that if the conversation turns sour, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask the agent for his or her manager and territory manager’s name and contact information. Tax Tiger points out that the agent cannot, under any circumstance, refuse this information, even though they might resist.
Praise Performance
Finally, says Tax Tiger, if the agent went above and beyond in his or her duties, make sure to offer to drop a line of praise to their supervisor. These people are subject to a great deal of ridicule, and very much appreciate when they are acknowledged for their service.
Tax Tiger can be contacted by visiting them online at www.taxtiger.com
