Your Rights as a Taxpayer

The main taxpayer rights, in plain language

The IRS says taxpayers have several basic rights. In simple terms, you have the right to be informed, to get clear explanations, to pay only what you owe, and to question IRS decisions when something seems wrong.

You also have the right to privacy, fairness, and professional treatment. If the IRS contacts you, you should be able to understand what it is asking for and why. If English is not your strongest language, it is reasonable to ask for help in a language you understand.

These rights matter whether you owe back taxes, missed filings, got an audit letter, or are trying to deal with a lien, levy, or payment plan.

What these rights can mean in real life

A lien is a legal claim the IRS puts on property. A levy is when the IRS actually takes money or property, such as from a paycheck or bank account. If you receive a notice about either one, you have the right to review it, ask questions, and respond.

You also have the right to challenge many IRS actions and to ask for a hearing in some situations. That does not mean every request will be approved, but it does mean you are not supposed to be ignored.

If you cannot pay in full, there may be legitimate options such as an installment agreement, an offer in compromise, or a temporary delay in collection. The right option depends on your facts, your income, and what you owe.

Your rights during an audit or IRS notice

If the IRS audits you or sends a notice, you have the right to know what is being questioned and to respond with information. You should keep copies of notices, letters, and any records you send back.

You do not have to guess what the IRS means. It is okay to ask for a written explanation, ask for more time if you need it, and get help from a qualified professional. A tax attorney or tax-resolution professional can explain what the notice says and what your options may be.

TaxCairn can help you find that kind of help through get matched or learn more about the types of support on our services page.

Filing, immigration, and language access

Filing taxes is separate from immigration status. Many people with ITINs can file tax returns and resolve tax problems without this changing their immigration situation. If you are unsure how your tax issue and immigration concerns fit together, it can help to speak with a professional who understands both.

You may also have the right to get information in a language you understand or to work with someone who can communicate clearly with you. TaxCairn is built for that need: it is a free matching service, not a law firm, and it can help connect you with a professional in your preferred language when available.

We do not collect your SSN, ITIN, tax returns, financial account numbers, or immigration documents. For matching, we only ask general contact information and a few words about your situation.

How to get help without overpaying or getting false promises

A tax problem can feel urgent, but it is wise to slow down and compare options. Costs vary a lot by state, complexity, and the professional you choose. As a rough planning range, many tax debt cases may cost about $1,500 to $5,000 in professional fees, with more for complicated matters. An IRS installment agreement can sometimes start around $25 per month depending on what is owed. An Offer in Compromise application has a fee that is usually a few hundred dollars unless waived.

Be cautious of anyone who guarantees a specific result, such as a certain settlement amount or a promise that the IRS will accept an offer. No one can honestly promise that outcome.

If you want a second opinion, that is normal. TaxCairn is free for people looking for help; participating professionals pay us a flat fee to be matched.