Tax Controversy

A Tax Controversy Service refers to specialized legal and accounting support for individuals or businesses involved in disputes with tax authorities—primarily the IRS. These services help navigate complex matters ranging from audits to litigation. Here’s a breakdown:

What It Encompasses

Audit Representation

  • Handling IRS, state, or local audits on your behalf
  • Gathering records, preparing responses, and representing you at meetings

Negotiation & Appeals

  • Working with the IRS's Independent Office of Appeals to resolve disagreements without going to court
  • Offering alternatives such as fast-track settlements, mediated resolutions, or formal appeals

Penalties & Interest

  • Seeking reduction or abatement of interest and fines
  • Filing claims or preparing defense strategies

Offers in Compromise & Refund Claims

  • Negotiating reduced payment options (Offers in Compromise)
  • Filing for refunds or appealing denied claims

Litigation Support

  • Representing clients in U.S. Tax Court, District Courts, or Court of Federal Claims
  • Managing high-stakes cases involving international business, estates, employment tax, foreign asset reporting, etc.

Proactive & Pre-filing Planning

  • Identifying risky areas before filing to reduce audit flags or tax exposure
  • Utilizing voluntary disclosures or advanced rulings to prevent future issues

Key Players in Tax Controversy

Taxpayer or business needing assistance

IRS or other tax authorities conducting audits or imposing rulings

Us: Tax attorneys, CPAs, EA consultants—professionals who manage, negotiate, or litigate cases

Why You Might Need It

  • Internal Revenue Service (IRS) audit notices
  • Disallowed deductions, partnership or international tax issues
  • Significant bills for taxes, penalties, or interest
  • Confusion over filings, estate taxes, employment tax liabilities, or FBAR reporting
  • Preparing to sue or appealing a tax agency's decision

Typical Lifecycle of a Tax Controversy

  • Audit or Notice Received
  • Collection of Facts & Evaluation
  • Representation & Negotiation
  • Appeals and Settlement Efforts
  • Outcome: Liability Resolution, Reduced Payments, or Litigation

Why “Tax Controversy” Matters

It’s a specialized support system designed to help you:

Defend your filings and secure fair outcomes

Mitigate or eliminate penalties and interest

Ensure compliance and prevent future tax issues

Bring order and expertise to incredibly complex tax matters

Bring order and expertise to incredibly complex tax matters

Avoid or reduce litigation risks

A tax controversy service provides expert guidance throughout the entire process of a tax dispute—from audit to settlement or court—leveraging legal strategy, negotiation, and representation to protect your interests.

CONTACT US

Valencia Office

27200 Tourney Road, Suite 290
Valencia, CA 91355-5906

Email

info@zss.com

Phone

Main Number: (310) 826-1040
Fax Number: (310) 826-1065
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