How to Know if it's the IRS - Part 2


          This is the time when the IRS will increase its notices to many Taxpayers about different matters. Unfortunately, this means that there are many others who try to take advantage and defraud others by pretending to representatives of the US Treasury. So it’s up to each of us to know what will distinguish a genuine officer or agent from a con artist.
          The In-Person visit. These can happen for various reasons, and from different branches of the IRS. No matter what the case may be, IRS representatives will always have a pocket commission and Personal Identity Verification Credential. They will describe the authority and responsibilities of the person to whom they belong. A Revenue Officer often makes visits to discuss Tax debt. These visits are usually not scheduled. They can request payment, but it will always be to the US Treasury. A Revenue Agent of the IRS handles audits, and will schedule time with a Taxpayer or Qualified Tax Professional to do so. At times, they can make unscheduled visits to discuss matters.
          Those who make up the Criminal Investigative branch of the IRS are Federal Law enforcement agents. They will carry a badge and law enforcement credentials. When dealing with them, they will never request any sort of payment. They will often arrive at a business or a home unannounced while conducting an investigation. It is a crime to lie to them, but you may choose to not speak with IRS Special Agents without an attorney present. No matter which part of the IRS you may have dealings with, you can be informed and know what rights you have. A Qualified Tax Professional can guide you along the way, and perhaps help you to avoid these situations.

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