How to Request a Different IRS Agent for Your Case

How to Request a Different IRS Agent for Your Case

When to Request a New IRS Agent

Some situations where you may want to ask for a different agent include:

• The agent is hostile, abusive, or harassing towards you
• The agent repeatedly misses deadlines or appointments
• Communication with the agent has completely broken down
• The agent makes unreasonable demands without explanation
• You have filed a complaint against the agent that was not resolved
• The agent is new and lacks experience handling your tax issue

Having a personality conflict or communication issues with your IRS agent can stall progress on resolving your tax matter. Don’t feel stuck – you can speak up.

How to Request a New IRS Agent

To ask for a different agent, follow these steps:

1. Gather documentation showing your attempts to work with the current agent.
2. Send a letter to the agent’s manager explaining why you need reassignment.
3. Remain professional – don’t make personal attacks on the agent.
4. If no action after 30 days, escalate to the IRS Taxpayer Advocate.
5. Cite Taxpayer Bill of Rights to fair and courteous service.

Having a paper trail of correspondence and documentation makes a stronger case for why a new agent is needed. Frame the request as seeking a “fresh start” to resolve your tax matter.

Tips for a Successful Reassignment

Here are some tips to help your request for a new IRS agent go smoothly:

• Be specific about your reasons for the request.
• Suggest alternatives like transferring to a different IRS office.
• Emphasize your willingness to cooperate with a new agent.
• Remain calm and reasonable in interactions with the current agent.
• Follow up your letter with a phone call to the manager.
• If denied, be persistent in escalating through proper channels.

With patience and details on why the relationship is no longer productive, you can usually get assigned to an IRS agent who is a better fit.

What to Do if Your Request is Denied

If your request for a new IRS agent is denied, don’t give up. You still have options, such as:

• File a complaint following IRS procedures.
• Contact the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.
• Request help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service.
• Ask your Congressional representative to intervene.
• Hire a tax professional to act as liaison with the agent.

Well-documented complaints and persistence in escalating the issue can sometimes overcome an initial denial. A tax pro can also add credibility.

Avoid Delays in Your Case Resolution

Having to change IRS agents mid-stream can cause delays, so this step shouldn’t be taken lightly. But an unproductive relationship can also stall progress. The key is acting promptly to request reassignment when needed, while remaining professional.

With diligence and patience, you can get an IRS agent who is cooperative and qualified to handle your unique tax matter. Don’t let an unsuitable agent jeopardize your case resolution. You have the right to fair and courteous service.