A tax attorney is a lawyer who focuses on taxation. Tax attorneys assist individuals in organizing their finances in order to optimize their tax situations, comply with tax rules, and resolve disputes with the IRS or other tax authorities. Some specialize in estate, international, or business taxes.
- Tax attorneys are frequently employed by law firms or accounting firms. Some may be sole proprietors, which means they run their own businesses and work for themselves.
- Tax lawyers at law firms typically advise clients on how to obtain favorable tax treatment in a variety of situations. They may draught contracts or other legal documents as needed, and they may represent clients in tax court or elsewhere.
- Tax lawyers at accounting and consulting firms are more likely to assist clients in complying with tax rules.
When is it worthwhile to hire a tax attorney?
Some situations may necessitate the services of a tax attorney.
Planning an estate
A tax attorney can assist you in developing estate planning strategies and handling the paperwork associated with minimizing estate taxes, transferring assets to family members, establishing trusts, and other strategies.
Establishing a business
A tax attorney may be able to assist you in developing tax-efficient strategies for starting, buying, selling, or expanding a business.
Tax controversies
A tax attorney can assist you if you have a tax dispute, want to sue the IRS, the state, or a local tax authority, or want a hearing before the United States tax court.
Tax reduction
A tax attorney may be able to assist you if you have an outstanding balance with the IRS or another tax authority that you want to negotiate or contest.
- Compromise offer
- Innocent spouse relief
- Installment plans to pay tax bills over time
What to look for in a tax lawyer?
Here are three things to look out for.
- A law degree. To practise law, an attorney must have a law license. You can check the website of your state’s bar association to see if a tax attorney is licensed to practise law in your state.
- Evidence of advanced education or specialized training. To obtain a law license in most states, you must also complete law school. Some tax lawyers hold a master’s degree in taxation. Some tax attorneys also hold CPA licenses, indicating that they are certified, public accountants.
- A tax identification number for the preparer. Anyone who prepares tax returns for a fee must obtain a ptin from the IRS. Your tax return must be signed by the preparer, who must also provide a ptin.
How to obtain free legal aid?
You might be able to get free or low-cost tax advice from a tax attorney in your area if you go to a low-income tax clinic, also known as a litc. These clinics represent people with incomes below certain thresholds who need to resolve IRS tax issues. Polston Tax can represent you before the IRS and in court in audits, appeals, and tax collection disputes. Polston Tax can also assist people in responding to IRS notices and resolving account issues.
If you have any questions or concerns about your taxes, contact polstontax.com to find a qualified tax attorney in your area.
