If you’re facing IRS collections because of your spouse’s or ex-spouse’s tax mistakes, you may qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief—a powerful form of protection under federal tax law. At Polaris Tax & Accounting in Plantation, FL, we help Florida residents break free from unjust tax debts caused by a partner’s errors, omissions, or fraud.
What Is Innocent Spouse Relief?
Innocent Spouse Relief allows you to be relieved of responsibility for additional tax, interest, and penalties if your spouse (or former spouse):
- Failed to report income
- Claimed improper deductions or credits
- Engaged in tax fraud without your knowledge
If you filed jointly and the IRS is now pursuing you for the full amount, this relief may stop them in their tracks.
Who Qualifies for Innocent Spouse Relief?
You must meet all of the following conditions:
- You filed a joint return with your spouse
- The understatement of tax is solely due to your spouse’s actions
- You didn’t know, and had no reason to know, about the issue
- It would be unfair to hold you responsible
You must also apply within two years of the first collection attempt by the IRS.
Other Types of Spouse-Based Relief
There are three types of relief that may apply:
- Innocent Spouse Relief – For clear-cut cases of hidden income or fraud.
- Separation of Liability Relief – For divorced or legally separated individuals.
- Equitable Relief – For unusual situations where the first two types don’t apply but fairness demands relief.
How Polaris Helps Florida Clients
- Evaluate which type of relief you qualify for
- Prepare and submit Form 8857 to the IRS
- Draft a compelling narrative and supporting evidence
- Represent you throughout the IRS review process
We’ve helped clients in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Miami escape unjust tax bills tied to their ex-spouses.
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Final Thoughts
Tax debt tied to a spouse’s mistake isn’t always your fault. Polaris helps Florida clients request the relief they deserve and stop IRS collection efforts before they spiral.