Clark Stott has been with Expat Tax Online since 2015. Being a dual national based in the UK, Clark has unique experience helping US citizens (and Accidental Americans) become tax compliant via the Streamlined Tax Amnesty program. Clark likes to help Americans in the UK keep their tax situations as simple as possible to avoid harsh IRS treatment.
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Can you disagree with the IRS on Form 4549?
Absolutely! If something doesn’t quite add up or you simply don’t agree with what the IRS suggests on Form 4549, you’re definitely within your rights to question those adjustments.
What's the deal with Form 4549?
Form 4549, or the Income Tax Examination Changes form, is what the IRS uses to tell you they think there should be some tweaks to your tax return. If after taking a closer look at your return they find things that need changing, they’ll send this form your way. It essentially lists any extra taxes you need to pay or any refunds you might be due.
Why would I get Form 4549?
You might end up seeing Form 4549 in your mailbox for a few reasons. It could be because there’s something off with your income reports, maybe you’ve been a bit too generous with your deductions, or you just got picked randomly.
What's on Form 4549?
Form 4549 breaks down a few key things:
- Summary of Proposed Changes: This bit compares what you reported on your taxes with what the IRS thinks the numbers should be. It covers any proposed changes to your income, deductions, credits, and how much tax you owe.
- Explanation of Changes: Here, the IRS gets into the details of why they’re proposing each change.
- Tax Computation: This section tallies up any extra taxes you owe or refunds you’re due, including penalties or interest for any mishaps like underreporting your income or paying your taxes late.
- Response Options: The form also outlines how you can respond—either agree by signing the form or stand your ground and dispute the adjustments with more info or documents.
How's the total tax liability figured out on Form 4549?
The total tax you owe according to Form 4549 comes from the IRS’s deep dive into your tax return. They’ll flag any differences between what you reported and what they think is accurate for your income, deductions, credits, and taxes. This includes:
- Tweaks to your reported income, which might point out income you missed reporting or need to correct.
- Adjustments to deductions and credits, possibly cutting out some deductions you claimed or changing the amounts.
- Penalties and interest, if it turns out you didn’t report everything right or were a bit late with your taxes.
Form 4549 has all of these details, showing the total amount the IRS calculates you owe, after subtracting what you’ve already paid and adding any penalties and interest.
Can I opt out of signing Form 4549 post-IRS audit?
Yes, signing Form 4549 means you’re on board with the IRS’s audit findings. If you’re not, no worries—you don’t have to sign. Here’s what you can do instead:
- Ask for a Manager Meeting: If the audit conclusions don’t sit right with you, request a chat with an IRS manager.
- Go for an Appeal: Can’t sort it out with a chat or more info? File Form 12203 to appeal the audit results.
What kind of proof should I gather to dispute Form 4549?
If you’re not agreeing with the IRS on Form 4549, bring out your paperwork to make your case. This might include:
- Receipts and Invoices: Got expenses or deductions you’ve claimed? Show the proof.
- Bank Statements: These can back up your income reports or transaction timings.
- Employment Records: Think W-2s or 1099s that might have slipped through the cracks or got tangled up.
- Relevant Emails or Letters: Any communication that helps clear up disputed transactions can be a big help.
What's the right form for an appeal request?
If you’re looking to appeal IRS findings or adjustments, Form 12203, aka Request for Appeals Review, is your go-to. Filing this form gets the ball rolling for a review by the IRS Appeals Office, offering a chance to present any new docs or arguments outside of a courtroom atmosphere.
Thinking of requesting an audit reconsideration?
If you’re questioning the audit outcomes, reconsideration is an option. This is a less formal route to dispute the findings without diving into the formal appeals process.
Just reach out to the IRS office behind your audit, lay out why you disagree, and don’t forget to include any new evidence or documents that might have been overlooked initially.
What if I get a notice of deficiency post-audit?
Getting a Notice of Deficiency, or the “90-day letter,” means the IRS plans to adjust your tax based on their audit. You’ve got 90 days to respond. Here’s how:
- Agree with the Notice: If it all looks right to you, sign off on it, and the IRS will update your tax due.
- File for an Appeal: Not seeing eye to eye with the IRS? Use Form 12203 to request a review by the Appeals Office.
- Head to Tax Court: If you’re leaning towards a legal challenge, file a petition with the US Tax Court within the 90-day window for a judicial review.
Can I work out a deal with the IRS using Form 4549 as a starting point?
Absolutely! If Form 4549 brings up figures you’re not quite in agreement with, there’s room for discussion with the IRS. Here’s how you can approach it:
- Make Your Case: If the numbers seem off, gather up your documents and show the IRS why you believe your original tax submission was accurate.
- Consider an Offer in Compromise: If settling the full amount would stretch your finances too thin, this option lets you negotiate a lower payment. It’s all about proving that paying in full isn’t feasible.
- Look into Payment Plans: Can’t pay all at once? A payment plan might be the way to go, letting you chip away at the amount over time.
Uncertain about Form 4549 or need a hand?
If Form 4549 has you scratching your head or if you’re in need of some guidance:
- Reach Out to the IRS: The form or accompanying documents should have contact details for the IRS office or representative who can shed light on your audit findings.
- Get Expert Advice: Sometimes, it’s best to bring in the pros. A tax advisor, like a CPA or tax attorney, can offer invaluable insights, help you navigate your options, and stand in your corner when dealing with the IRS.
