Internal Revenue Service

The Taxpayer Advocate Service was established by the Internal Revenue Service to ensure that federal tax problems, which have not been solved through normal channels, are handled promptly and fairly.

Congressman Matheson's office works with the Taxpayer Advocate Service to resolve constituent concerns. For assistance, you may either contact the local Taxpayer Advocate office at (801) 799-6958 or you may call Congressman Matheson's Salt Lake office.

Taxpayer Advocate Service

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the IRS whose employees assist taxpayers who are experiencing economic harm, who are seeking help in resolving tax problems that have not been resolved through normal channels, or who believe that an IRS system or procedure is not working as it should.  If you believe you are eligible for TAS assistance, you can reach TAS by calling the TAS toll-free case intake line at 1–877–777–4778.  For more information, go to www.irs.gov/advocate.

Free Internet Filing

70% of individual taxpayers are eligible for IRS Free File.  These free services, and the eligibility requirements, are posted on www.irs.gov.  Just click on the Free File logo. The service is available to many taxpayers with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of up to $56,000.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Tax Counseling for the Elderly

Free tax preparation is also available thru the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. Volunteers from local community organizations help prepare basic tax returns for low- to moderate-income taxpayers (generally $41,646 and below) and the elderly.  Dates, hours, and locations for these free tax preparation sites vary.  To locate a volunteer site, call your community's municipal services number (2-1-1) or the IRS at 1-800-906-9887.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of the IRS?
The IRS role is to help the large majority of compliant taxpayers with the tax law, while ensuring that the minority who are unwilling to comply pay their fair share.

Where is the IRS office closest to me?
There are several IRS offices in Utah.

How can I get an extension on filing my tax returns?
Please click on this link to find out more information on extensions.

What are the advantages to filing my tax return on time?
Generally, if a taxpayer is due a refund for withholding or estimated taxes paid, it must be claimed within 3 years of the return due date or risk losing the right to it. The same rule applies to a right to claim a tax credit such as the Earned Income Credit (EIC). Self-employed persons who do not file a return will not receive credits toward Social Security retirement or disability benefits.

Are students exempt from the FICA tax?
Yes, when students are employed by a school, college, or university at which they are pursuing an education. For more information, consult the Student Exception to FICA Tax page.

Where can I find tax information about my mid-sized or large business?
If you have a company with assets greater than $10 million you should be aware of applicableIRS regulations for businesses.

How can I avoid tax scams?
The IRS has put together a large amount of educational materials to help the public avoid tax scams.