Expedite Your ERC Refund with the Taxpayer Advocate Service
What is the Taxpayer Advocate Service?
The Taxpayer Advocate Service is an independent organization within the IRS, established to help taxpayers resolve issues with the IRS. With offices in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, TAS provides direct assistance to taxpayers facing significant problems with their tax matters. Each year, TAS also addresses systemic issues within the IRS by issuing a report to Congress with recommendations for improving the tax system.
How Can TAS Assist with ERC Claims?
TAS has the authority to intervene and advocate on behalf of taxpayers, pushing the IRS to address delayed ERC refund claims. While TAS cannot guarantee the payment of refunds, it can expedite the review and resolution process, significantly reducing wait times.
IRS Commissioner Daniel Warfel, during a recent Ways and Means Committee hearing, acknowledged the financial hardships caused by delayed ERC refunds and emphasized the IRS’s commitment to resolving these issues. He encouraged businesses facing significant delays to seek assistance from TAS. Taxpayers can initiate this process by submitting Form 911, which authorizes TAS to work on their behalf to resolve their claims more efficiently.
Why TAS Involvement is Crucial
Recent IRS updates highlight the importance of seeking TAS assistance. In a press release from June 20, 2024, the IRS announced plans to deny tens of thousands of improper high-risk ERC claims while starting to process lower-risk claims. According to IRS Commissioner Warfel, “This is one of the most complex credits the IRS has administered, and we continue to ask taxpayers for patience as we unravel this complex process. Ultimately, this period will help us protect taxpayers against improper payouts that flooded the system and get checks to those truly eligible.”
The IRS is conducting additional analysis to ensure compliance, which means legitimate claims are also subject to heightened scrutiny. Since the moratorium was placed on new ERC claims after September 14, 2023, the IRS has processed only 28,000 claims in eight months, leaving a significant backlog.
Given the high volume of claims and the rigorous review process, TAS can be instrumental in expediting your legitimate ERC refund. TAS’s ability to advocate on your behalf can help ensure your claim receives the attention it needs amidst the IRS’s increased scrutiny and backlog.
The Role of Certified Tax Professionals in TAS Interventions
Although taxpayers can contact TAS directly, working with certified tax professionals, such as CPAs and Juris Doctors, can be incredibly beneficial. Our firm’s experienced tax professionals understand the intricacies of the tax system and can present a compelling case to TAS, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome. We can manage monthly check-ins and communications with TAS, reducing the burden on taxpayers and ensuring consistent follow-up.
Conclusion
Engaging TAS to expedite ERC refund claims is a low-risk, high-reward strategy for businesses experiencing delays. If your ERC refund has been pending for more than six months, or if your business is suffering due to the delay, TAS can advocate for a faster resolution. While alternative options like litigation exist, TAS offers an accessible and effective first line of defense against prolonged refund delays.
For personalized advice and strategies to navigate ERC refund delays, please contact our team at info@strategictaxplanning.net or call us at (202) 455-6010. We are here to assist you in achieving financial success and compliance.
