Section 6103(e) of the Internal revenue code allows taxpayers to request, and IRS to grant, "innocent spouse" relief when: taxpayer filed a joint return with tax substantially understated; taxpayer establishes no knowledge of or benefit from, the understatement; and it would be inequitable to hold the taxpayer liable. GAO Report GAO/GGD-97-34 recommended that IRS develop a form to make relief easier for the public to request.
US Code:
26 USC 6013
Name of Law: Joint returns of income tax by husband and wife
US Code:
26 USC 6103 (e)
Name of Law: Disclosure to persons having material interest
US Code:
26 USC 6015
Name of Law: Relief from joint and several liability on joint return
US Code:
26 USC 66 (c)
Name of Law: Treatment of community income
US Code:
26 USC 6103
Name of Law: Confidentiality and disclosure of returns and return information
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.