If you disagree with an IRS audit result, penalty, or collection action, you have the right to challenge it through the IRS Office of Appeals or by filing a petition in federal tax disputes — and these processes frequently result in significant reductions because Appeals Officers have settlement authority that examiners do not. The appeals process is administrative (no court appearance required), while The formal dispute process is the only judicial forum where you can challenge a deficiency without paying the tax first. Neil Jesani Tax Resolution's tax professionals experienced in federal tax disputes and former IRS Appeals officers handle the full spectrum from protest letters through trial. Key Takeaways The IRS appeals process offers an independent, administrative review of disputed tax issues without going to court The federal tax disputes allows you to challenge IRS deficiency determinations before paying the disputed tax Understanding the difference between IRS Appeals conferences and formal dispute petitions is critical to choosing the right strategy Strict deadlines apply — missing the 90-day window on a notice of deficiency eliminates your the formal tax dispute process option Most formal tax dispute cases settle before trial through negotiation with IRS counsel Professional representation from Neil Jesani Tax Resolution significantly improves outcomes in both appeals and resolution process When Should You Fight an IRS Decision? Every year, millions of taxpayers receive IRS notices proposing additional taxes, penalties, or adjustments to their returns. While some of these determinations are correct, many are not. The IRS makes mistakes, misinterprets facts, and sometimes applies the law incorrectly. When that happens, you have the right — and often the obligation — to fight back. The question is not whether you can dispute an IRS decision, but how. The two primary avenues are the IRS Office of Appeals (an administrative process within...