TAX NEWS - JUNE 2010

IRS: Don't throw out that notice. Get tax help

If you have issues with your 2009 tax returns, or you just want to get a leg up for next year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is willing to help.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- This hot, humid summertime weather probably doesn't make you think tax season.

But if you have issues with your 2009 returns, or you just want to get a leg up for next year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is willing to help.

Tax issues can be, well taxing. "I was doing some amended returns, and unfortunately the computer said I needed to have my old returns, and the reason I was amending is because my old returns are stuck in the computer," said Ruth Litkowski of Andersonville.

Nearly two months after April 15, the IRS is trying to help. Saturday's workshop let taxpayers talk about their returns and problems face to face.

"I don't have to go through a menu. So it's nice to talk to people," said Litkowski.

"It's not too often that we are open on Saturdays during the summer, but we thought we'd try to reach out to taxpayers to offer them some help," said IRS Spokesperson Michael Dobzinski.

"In individual tax cases, the IRS will send out maybe four or five notices over an eight to 12 week period," said Dobzinski. "And if you wait to that 12th week, by that time the interest and penalties are mounting up, and your situation may be worse than what it was at the beginning."

The IRS says if you have questions about forms or payments the best thing to do is ask. "Respond to a notice when you get it and not ignore it. Either call the IRS or come in and see us."

If you're already finished, there are some things you can do at home. Start saving your receipts, for one. Things like your children's day camp can be tax credits next spring.

"The best thing that you can do now once you've filed your return is to check your withholding. Maybe sure that it's in line for next year," said Dobzinski.

To get help, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Information is also available on IRS website.

The IRS operates a Knoxville location at 710 locust street in the John J. Duncan Federal Building. Advising hours on weekdays are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.