“Before I get help for my IRS problem, I’m going to go speak personally to the IRS officer or agent. Once they hear what I have to say, I am sure they will understand.” Some people who receive a notice from the IRS think that this is a great strategy because after all, what could go wrong? The answer is EVERYTHING.
Too often taxpayers get boxed into a corner and end up lying to the IRS. This is, of course, a crime.
Sometimes when I talk to a client they believe a certain position that they are taking is in their best interest. Very often it is exactly the opposite. What they think is helpful actually hurts their case.
Who really wants to go through the aggravation of talking to the IRS? Their collectors and auditors spend most of the time lecturing and scolding you. The less you have to deal directly with them, the better for you mentally and emotionally.
The time to get help is before you speak to the IRS and once you hire a tax practitioner you never have to talk to them. IRS Code Section 7521(c) says that it you have given a representative a power of attorney, he or she can act on your behalf when talking to the IRS.
It is so necessary to get a qualified representative that knows your rights and how to best argue your case. Do it before you play attorney.
Steven N. Klitzner, P.A. is a tax attorney based in Miami, Florida. He has been practicing tax law for over 40 years, and currently holds a 10.0 rating by Avvo. Mr. Klitzner was appointed to the IRS Service Advisory Council in 2021 and is... 
