Question:
I’m going through a divorce and just found out the IRS says I owe over $80,000 from past joint tax returns. My spouse handled everything. Am I responsible for this?
Answer:
Unfortunately, when you sign a joint tax return, both spouses are generally 100% responsible for the taxes owed. Regardless of who earned the income or handled the finances. A joint return is an election to be held jointly and severally liable, meaning you both agree to be on the hook for each other’s tax liabilities.
However, there is some good news, you may qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief.
This is a provision in the law that allows you to avoid joint tax liability if:
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The issue is tied to your spouse’s actions (like unreported income or improper deductions), and
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You didn’t know or had no reason to know there was a problem when you signed the return.
Additionally, there’s also something called Equitable Relief, which can apply even if the tax was properly reported but simply never paid.
These cases are very fact-specific, but I’ve seen many situations where clients were able to significantly reduce or completely eliminate their tax debt.
The key is acting quickly and putting together a strong, well-documented request.
There is a solution to EVERY problem!
At Beacon Tax Advocates, we are experts in IRS tax problem resolution and penalty abatement. We help taxpayers with their IRS problems every day. You’ll never have to speak to or meet with the IRS once we’re in the picture – Call us today at 207-502-7181 for a free confidential consultation.
