What is Innocent Spouse Relief ?

Innocent Spouse Relief is an IRS option that can eliminate or reduce tax liability when one spouse filed a joint return and the other caused the tax errors or fraud. If you live in the Jacksonville area and feel trapped by taxes you didn’t cause, this status may protect you from paying debts that aren’t yours. We understand this feels urgent and scary — you don’t have to face the IRS alone.

How Innocent Spouse Relief works

Who can qualify. Generally, you may qualify if you filed a joint return and can show that you didn’t know about, or didn’t benefit from, the understatement of tax or erroneous items on the return. Eligibility depends on facts like knowledge, benefit, and fairness.

What it does and does not do. Innocent Spouse Relief can remove your legal responsibility for tax, penalties, and interest tied to your spouse’s errors for a specific tax year. It does not erase other tax years or unrelated liabilities. It also does not guarantee the IRS will act a certain way — each case is decided based on its facts.

You must file Form 8857 (Request for Innocent Spouse Relief) or raise the issue during an audit or collection process. Deadlines and documentation are important. If the IRS has already assessed the tax, timing and the type of relief available can change. Our team helps you understand which relief fits your situation, including options related to IRS hardship status or collectible status.

Innocent Spouse Relief Process

Below is the typical process we follow with clients. Each case is different, but these are the main steps we take together.

1. We collect your tax returns, notices, and a brief history of your relationship and finances. This helps us quickly determine if Innocent Spouse Relief is a valid option.
2. We evaluate who benefited from the disputed items, your knowledge at the time, and whether relief would be fair. We also look into other relief options, like separation of liability or equitable relief.
3. We draft, prepare, and submit Form 8857 with clear, compelling facts and supporting documents. If the IRS has already categorized the account as collectible or hardship, we address that in the submission.
4. We handle all communications, respond to IRS requests, and negotiate when possible. We shield you from confusing IRS notices and collection efforts while the request is being processed.
5. We gather bank statements, affidavits, pay stubs, and other evidence to support your claim. Strong documentation increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
6. After submitting the request, we monitor the IRS response, advise on appeals if necessary, and coordinate with collection specialists if the IRS proceeds with collection during the review.

How Lamarre Law Group, P.A. Helps

We focus on reducing stress and protecting your rights with over 11 years of experience handling Innocent Spouse cases. Our services include:

• We prepare Form 8857, communicate with the IRS, and represent you in appeals if needed.
• We gather and organize the documents the IRS requires to review your claim.
• We provide advice on related relief options, including IRS hardship status and strategies for collectible status.
• We explain each step in clear language and keep you informed.

We do not guarantee specific IRS results. We do promise clear communication, thorough documentation, and experienced representation.

Ready to talk? Contact Lamarre Law Group, P.A.

If the IRS has named you on a joint return and you believe you’re not responsible, call the Lamarre Law Group, P.A.; we’re here to help. Reach out to us—we’ll listen carefully, explore your options together, and begin the Innocent Spouse process if it’s right for you. We proudly serve clients throughout Jacksonville and across the country, and we’re happy to connect with you by phone, video, or in person at our Jacksonville office.

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