Your Taxpayer Rights

Full Video Transcript

It always seems like the IRS has the upper hand, and that your rights as a taxpayer are limited. However, you do have important rights as a taxpayer, and it’s important to understand those rights so that you can exercise them. Specifically, you have the right to privacy. The IRS cannot share the information that you provide, unless specifically authorized by law, and you have the right to question how the information that you provide will be used. You also have the right to be treated respectfully. IRS employees should be courteous and professional. You have the right to representation, whether an attorney, an accountant, or anyone else you choose to represent you. You have the right to pay only what you owe in taxes. You have the right to get help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service. And finally, you have the right to appeal an IRS decision. Remember, the purpose of the IRS system is to collect taxes, not to intimidate or take advantage of you.