What is IRS Form 911?

IRS Form 911, also known as the Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, is a form used by taxpayers who are having difficulty resolving their tax issues with the IRS. The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers.

Requesting Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance

Taxpayers can use Form 911 to request help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS), an independent part of the IRS. TAS assists individuals and businesses facing unresolved tax problems. This service is available to those who are experiencing financial difficulties, are facing an immediate threat of adverse action or have system or procedural issues. TAS aims to resolve tax issues and protect taxpayers’ rights.

When to Use Form 911

Form 911 should be used when taxpayers face significant hardship, an immediate threat of adverse action, or system or procedure failures within the IRS that are causing tax issues.

Facing Economic Hardship or Immediate Threat

Taxpayers should consider using Form 911 when they are experiencing economic harm or are about to suffer economic harm due to IRS actions or inactions. If there is an immediate threat of adverse action, such as a levy or seizure, it is also appropriate to submit this form. This includes situations where the IRS will not grant assistance or won’t grant the assistance in a timely manner causing significant financial strain.

Unresolved Issues Through Normal Channels

Form 911 is intended for taxpayers who have attempted to resolve their tax issues through normal IRS channels but have been unsuccessful. This means that if you have not been able to get a satisfactory resolution through regular IRS procedures, using Form 911 to request assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) becomes a viable option. TAS can help when the IRS will not grant the requested assistance.

System or Procedure Failures

Taxpayers can also use Form 911 when experiencing issues due to IRS system or procedural failures. This could include problems with the IRS’s computer systems, incorrect application of tax laws, or administrative errors that are preventing the resolution of your tax issue. If you believe the IRS’s internal processes are the reason for your problem, this form can help get the necessary attention.

How to Obtain Form 911

You can obtain Form 911 by downloading it online from the IRS website. Alternatively, you can order the form by phone by calling 1-800-829-3676 to have it delivered by mail.

Download Online

The most convenient way to get a copy of Form 911 is by downloading it directly from the official IRS website. The form is available as a PDF document, which you can save to your computer and fill out electronically. This method allows you to complete the form on your device and save your progress before printing it out for submission. Always ensure you are using an official copy from the IRS website.

Order by Phone

If you prefer not to download the form online, you can also order a physical copy of Form 911 by phone. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 to request tax forms and instructions, which will then be mailed to you. This option is useful if you do not have reliable internet access or would rather fill out the form by hand. Allow a few days for delivery.

Completing Form 911

Form 911 is designed to be straightforward. You can complete it by typing directly into the document, or by hand using a printed copy. It is important to include all required details.

Personal and Contact Information

The initial section of Form 911, typically lines 1 through 9, requires you to provide your personal details. This includes your full name, current address, phone number, and any other relevant contact information. Accurate completion of this section is crucial to ensure the Taxpayer Advocate Service can reach you. It’s very important to provide a phone number where you can be easily reached. This also includes an email address if you have one.

Details of Tax Concern or Issue

Following the personal information, Form 911 requires you to share specific details about your tax concern or issue. Starting from line 10, you’ll need to describe the nature of your problem with the IRS. Be clear and concise when explaining the situation. Include relevant information like the tax year, the type of tax involved, and any specific actions taken by the IRS that you are disputing or that is causing you hardship. This section is very important for TAS to understand your specific issue.

Submitting Form 911

To submit Form 911, you can mail or fax it to your local Taxpayer Advocate Service office. There is at least one office in every state to receive your submitted form.

Mail or Fax to Local TAS Office

Once you have completed Form 911, you can submit it by either mailing or faxing it to your local Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) office. To find the correct address or fax number for your area, check the Taxpayer Advocate website or call 1-877-777-4778. Make sure to include any supporting documentation that could help resolve your issue faster. Ensure that the form is legible and all fields are filled out accurately.

What to Expect After Submission

After submitting Form 911, you can expect a Taxpayer Advocate Service employee to contact you to discuss your case. They will likely call you to discuss the details of your submitted form.

Contact from a Taxpayer Advocate

Following the submission of Form 911, a Taxpayer Advocate will typically reach out to you to discuss your case. This contact may be made by telephone to better understand the specifics of the tax issues you are facing. During this conversation, the advocate will gather further details and discuss the steps necessary to resolve your problem. They will work with you to find the best solution.

TAS Criteria for Assistance

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) provides assistance to taxpayers who are experiencing significant hardship, are facing an immediate threat of adverse action, or have encountered a system or procedure failure.

Significant Hardship

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) helps taxpayers experiencing significant financial difficulties as a direct result of an IRS action or inaction. This includes situations where taxpayers cannot afford basic living expenses, are facing eviction or foreclosure, or have suffered other severe economic consequences. TAS aims to assist when normal IRS channels fail to address these hardships promptly, ensuring taxpayers can maintain financial stability. It’s crucial to demonstrate how the IRS issue is directly causing significant economic problems to qualify for help.

Immediate Threat of Adverse Action

Taxpayers facing an imminent threat of adverse action by the IRS can seek help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS). This includes situations where the IRS is about to levy their bank accounts, garnish their wages, or seize their property. TAS can intervene to prevent these actions while working to resolve the underlying tax issue. Immediate threat means the action is likely to happen very soon, requiring quick response from TAS to protect the taxpayer from significant financial harm or disruption.

Frivolous Use of Form 911

The IRS has a policy against using Form 911 for frivolous requests or arguments. Penalties, including fines up to $5,000, may be imposed for such submissions, even without tax underpayment.

Penalties for Frivolous Submissions

The IRS takes frivolous use of Form 911 very seriously. Taxpayers who submit the form with frivolous arguments or requests may face significant financial penalties. These penalties can include fines up to $5,000, and may be imposed even if there is no actual underpayment of tax. The IRS has a policy to discourage taxpayers from misusing the form and wasting government resources. Therefore, it is crucial to only use Form 911 for legitimate issues.

TAS Contact Information

To find the nearest Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) office, visit the TAS website or call 1-877-777-4778. You can also find contact details for local offices on their website.

Website and Phone Number

For detailed information about the Taxpayer Advocate Service and to locate your local office, visit the official TAS website. The website provides resources, contact details, and information on how to submit Form 911. If you prefer phone assistance, you can reach the TAS by calling their dedicated helpline at 1-877-777-4778. They will help direct you to the appropriate resources and provide guidance on your tax issue.

Other Ways to Request TAS Assistance

Besides Form 911, you can explore self-help tools on the TAS website for various tax issues. The TAS also offers other options to get assistance, in addition to submitting form 911.

Alternative Methods Besides Form 911

While Form 911 is a direct route for requesting assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service, you may find that other avenues can address your tax concerns. The TAS provides various self-help tools on their website, offering guidance and resources for common tax issues. Additionally, contacting the TAS through their phone number may offer alternative solutions or guidance on the best approach for your specific situation. These options can sometimes help you resolve your issues without needing to submit Form 911.

Additional Considerations

When submitting Form 911, providing supporting documentation can significantly expedite the resolution of your tax issue. Gather all relevant documents that prove your hardship or issue to ensure a faster review.

Providing Supporting Documentation

Remember that furnishing relevant documentation with your Form 911 submission is crucial for a quicker resolution. Include any paperwork that supports your claim, like notices from the IRS, payment records, or financial statements. This additional information helps the Taxpayer Advocate Service understand the full scope of your tax issue and can lead to a more efficient process. Be sure to gather all necessary materials.