IRS Penalty Abatement

Do you know you can ask the IRS to abate a tax penalty?

If you were unable to meet a tax deadline due to unforeseen circumstances, you can ask the IRS for a tax penalty abatement, saving you from a significant amount of tax debt. The tax professionals at East Coast Tax Consulting Group are well-versed in the abatement criteria and procedures used by the IRS. They will present your case in the most favorable light to help you achieve IRS penalty abatement.

For most penalties, the IRS uses a “reasonable cause” standard to determine whether or not to grant tax penalty abatement. If you were unable to file or pay your taxes on time for a legitimate reason, then the IRS may waive or remove penalties. Examples of factors that may establish reasonable cause for IRS abatement include:

• Death or serious illness in the family
• Fire, casualty, natural disaster, or other disturbance
• Theft or destruction of records
• A mistake
• Inaccurate advice from the IRS or a tax professional

Another way to remove a penalty is with the IRS First Time Penalty Abatement Program. Generally, you’ll need to meet the following conditions to qualify:

• You incurred no penalties for the three years prior to the year of the penalty
• You have filed all required tax returns or extensions
• You have made payment arrangements for any outstanding tax debt

Our knowledgeable CPAs will review your circumstances and determine the strength of your case before starting the IRS penalty abatement process. We will help you gather any necessary information and documentation to support your request. One of our experienced tax professionals will negotiate with the IRS on your behalf to reduce or eliminate your penalties.