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The IRS Form 12153, also known as the Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing, serves as an essential tool for taxpayers seeking to protect their rights during the collection process. When the IRS proposes to collect unpaid tax debts through liens, levies, or other aggressive measures, this form allows individuals to formally request a hearing. By submitting Form 12153, taxpayers can challenge the IRS's intended actions and ensure their voices are heard. The form must be filed within a specific timeframe, typically 30 days from the date the IRS notifies the taxpayer of the collection action. Providing detailed information in the form is crucial, as it outlines the basis for the request, whether due to disputes over the debt itself, financial hardships, or other valid concerns. Overall, understanding Form 12153 and how to effectively use it can significantly impact a taxpayer’s ability to assert their rights and navigate the complexities of IRS collection efforts.

Form Sample

Form 12153

(February 2020)

Department of the Treasury - Internal Revenue Service

Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing

Use this form to request a Collection Due Process (CDP) or equivalent hearing with the IRS Independent Office of Appeals if you have been issued one of the following lien or levy notices:

Notice of Federal Tax Lien Filing and Your Right to a Hearing under IRC 6320,

Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing,

Notice of Jeopardy Levy and Right of Appeal,

Notice of Levy on Your State Tax Refund,

Notice of Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing.

Complete this form and send it to the address shown on your lien or levy notice. Include a copy of your lien or levy notice to ensure proper handling of your request.

Call the phone number on the notice or 1-800-829-1040 if you are not sure about the correct address or if you want to fax your request.

You can find a section explaining the deadline for requesting a Collection Due Process hearing in this form's instructions. If you've missed the deadline for requesting a CDP hearing, you must check line 7 (Equivalent Hearing) to request an equivalent hearing.

1.Taxpayer name (Taxpayer 1) Taxpayer Identification Number Current address

 

 

City

 

 

 

 

 

 

State

 

ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

Telephone number and best

Home (

)

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

am.

pm.

 

time to call during normal

Work (

 

)

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

am.

pm.

 

business hours

 

 

 

 

Cell (

 

)

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

am.

pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Taxpayer name (Taxpayer 2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taxpayer Identification Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(if different from

City

 

 

 

 

 

 

State

 

ZIP code

 

 

address above)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.

Telephone number and best

Home (

)

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

am.

pm.

 

time to call during normal

Work (

 

)

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

am.

pm.

 

business hours

 

 

 

 

Cell (

 

)

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

am.

pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

Tax information as shown on the

lien or levy notice (if possible, attach a copy of the notice)

 

Type of Tax

(Income, Employment,

Excise, etc. or Civil Penalty)

Tax Form Number

(1040, 941, 720, etc.)

Tax Period or Periods

Catalog Number 26685D

www.irs.gov

Form 12153 (Rev. 2-2020)

Page 2

6.Basis for hearing request (both boxes can be checked if you have received both a lien and levy notice)

Filed Notice of Federal Tax Lien

Proposed Levy or Actual Levy

7.Equivalent Hearing (see the instructions for more information on Equivalent Hearings)

I would like an Equivalent Hearing - I would like a hearing equivalent to a CDP Hearing if my request for a CDP hearing does not meet the requirements for a timely CDP Hearing.

8.Check the most appropriate box for the reason you disagree with the filing of the lien or the levy. See page 4 of this form for examples. You can add more pages if you don't have enough space.

If, during your CDP Hearing, you think you would like to discuss a Collection Alternative to the action proposed by the Collection function it is recommended you submit a completed Form 433A (Individual) and/or Form 433B (Business), as appropriate, with this form. See www.irs.gov for copies of the forms. Generally, the IRS Independent Office of Appeals will ask the Collection Function to review, verify and provide their opinion on any new information you submit. We will share their comments with you and give you the opportunity to respond.

Collection alternative

Installment Agreement

Offer in Compromise

I Cannot Pay Balance

Lien

Subordination

Discharge

Withdrawal

Explain

 

 

 

My spouse is responsible Innocent Spouse Relief (attach Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse

Relief, to your request)

Other (for examples, see page 4)

Reason (you must provide a reason for the dispute or your request for a CDP hearing will not be honored. Use as much space as you need to explain the reason for your request. Attach extra pages if necessary)

9. Signatures

I understand the CDP hearing and any subsequent judicial review will suspend the statutory period of limitations for collection action. I also understand my representative or I must sign and date this request before the IRS Independent Office of Appeals can accept it. If you are signing as an officer of a company, add your title (president, secretary, etc.) behind your signature.

SIGN HERE

Taxpayer 1's signature

Date

Taxpayer 2's signature (if a joint request, both must sign)

Date

I request my CDP hearing be held with my authorized representative (attach a copy of Form 2848)

Authorized Representative's signature

Authorized Representative's name

Telephone number

 

 

 

IRS Use Only

IRS employee (print)

Employee telephone number

IRS received date

 

 

 

Catalog Number 26685D

www.irs.gov

Form 12153 (Rev. 2-2020)

Page 3

Information You Need To Know When Requesting A Collection Due Process Hearing

What Is the Deadline for Requesting a Timely Collection Due Process (CDP) Hearing?

Your request for a CDP hearing about a Federal Tax Lien filing must be postmarked by the date indicated in the Notice of Federal Tax Lien Filing and Your Right to a Hearing under IRC 6320 (lien notice).

Your request for a CDP hearing about a levy must be postmarked within 30 days after the date of the Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing (levy notice) or Notice of Your Right to a Hearing After an Actual Levy.

Your timely request for a CDP hearing will prohibit levy action in most cases. A timely request for CDP hearing will also suspend the 10-year period we have, by law, to collect your taxes. Both the prohibition on levy and the suspension of the 10-year period will last until the determination the IRS Independent Office of Appeals makes about your disagreement is final. The amount of time the suspension is in effect will be added to the time remaining in the 10-year period. For example, if the 10-year period is suspended for six months, the time left in the period we have to collect taxes will be extended by six months.

You can go to court to appeal the CDP determination the IRS Independent Office of Appeals makes about your disagreement.

What Is an Equivalent Hearing?

If you still want a hearing with the IRS Independent Office of Appeals after the deadline for requesting a timely CDP hearing has passed, you can use this form to request an equivalent hearing. You must check the Equivalent Hearing box on line 7 of the form to request an equivalent hearing. An equivalent hearing request does not prohibit levy or suspend the 10-year period for collecting your taxes; also, you cannot go to court to appeal the IRS Independent Office of Appeals' decision about your disagreement. You must request an equivalent hearing within the following timeframe:

Lien Notice—one year plus five business days from the filing date of the Notice of Federal Tax Lien.

Levy Notice—one year from the date of the levy notice.

Your request for a CDP levy hearing, whether timely or Equivalent, does not prohibit the Service from filing a Notice of Federal Tax Lien.

Where Should You File Your CDP or Equivalent Hearing Request?

File your request by mail at the address on your lien notice or levy notice. You may also fax your request. Call the telephone number on the lien or levy notice to ask for the fax number. Do not send your CDP or equivalent hearing request directly to the IRS Independent Office of Appeals, it must be sent to the address on the lien or levy notice. If you send your request directly to Appeals it may result in your request not being considered a timely request. Depending upon your issue the originating function may contact you in an attempt to resolve the issue(s) raised in your request prior to forwarding your request to Appeals.

Where Can You Get Help?

You can call the telephone number on the lien or levy notice with your questions about requesting a hearing. The contact person listed on the notice or other representative can access your tax information and answer your questions.

In addition, you may qualify for representation by a low-income taxpayer clinic for free or nominal charge. Our Publication 4134, Low Income Taxpayer Clinic List, provides information on clinics in your area.

If you are experiencing economic harm, the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) may be able to help you resolve your problems with the IRS. TAS cannot extend the time you have to request a CDP or equivalent hearing. See Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process, or visit https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-advocate. You also can call 1-877-777-4778 for TAS assistance.

Note–The IRS Independent Office of Appeals will not consider frivolous requests. You can find examples of frivolous reasons for requesting a hearing or disagreeing with a tax assessment in Publication 2105, Why do I have to Pay Taxes?, or at www.irs.gov by typing “frivolous” into the search engine.

You can get copies of tax forms, schedules, instructions, publications, and notices at www.irs.gov, at your local IRS office, or by calling toll-free 1-800-TAX-FORM (829-3676).

Catalog Number 26685D

www.irs.gov

Form 12153 (Rev. 2-2020)

Page 4

What Are Examples of Reasons for Requesting a Hearing?

You will have to explain your reason for requesting a hearing when you make your request. Below are examples of reasons for requesting a hearing.

You want a collection alternative— “I would like to propose a different way to pay the money I owe.” Common collection alternatives include:

Full payment—you pay your taxes by personal check, cashier's check, money order, or credit card.

Installment Agreement—you pay your taxes fully or partially by making monthly payments.

Offer in Compromise—you offer to make a payment or payments to settle your tax liability for less than the full amount you owe.

“I cannot pay my taxes.” Some possible reasons why you cannot pay your taxes are: (1) you have a terminal illness or excessive medical bills; (2) your only source of income is Social Security payments, welfare payments, or unemployment benefit payments; (3) you are unemployed with little or no income; (4) you have reasonable expenses exceeding your income; or (5) you have some other hardship condition. The IRS Independent Office of Appeals may consider freezing collection action until your circumstances improve. Penalty and interest will continue to accrue on the unpaid balance.

You want action taken about the filing of the tax lien against your property—You can get a Federal Tax Lien released if you pay your taxes in full. You also may request a lien subordination, discharge, or withdrawal. See www.irs.gov for more information.

When you request lien subordination, you are asking the IRS to make a Federal Tax Lien secondary to a non-IRS lien. For example, you may ask for a subordination of the Federal Tax Lien to get a refinancing mortgage on your house or other real property you own. You would ask to make the Federal Tax Lien secondary to the mortgage, even though the mortgage came after the tax lien filing. The IRS Independent Office of Appeals would consider lien subordination, in this example, if you used the mortgage proceeds to pay your taxes.

When you request a lien discharge, you are asking the IRS to remove a Federal Tax Lien from a specific property. For example, you may ask for a discharge of the Federal Tax Lien in order to sell your house if you use all of the sale proceeds to pay your taxes even though the sale proceeds will not fully pay all of the tax you owe.

When you request a lien withdrawal, you are asking the IRS to remove the Notice of Federal Tax Lien (NFTL) information from public records because you believe the NFTL should not have been filed. For example, you may ask for a withdrawal of the filing of the NFTL if you believe the IRS filed the NFTL prematurely or did not follow procedures, or you have entered into an installment agreement and the installment agreement does not provide for the filing of the NFTL. A withdrawal does not remove the lien from your IRS records.

Your spouse is responsible—“My spouse (or former spouse) is responsible for all or part of the tax liability.” You may believe that your spouse or former spouse is the only one responsible for all or a part of the tax liability. If this is the case, you are requesting a hearing so you can receive relief as an innocent spouse. You should complete and attach Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief, to your hearing request.

Other Reasons—“I am not liable for (I don't owe) all or part of the taxes.” You can raise a disagreement about the amount you owe only if you did not receive a deficiency notice for the liability (a notice explaining why you owe taxes—it gives you the right to challenge in court, within a specific timeframe, the additional tax the IRS says you owe), or if you have not had another prior opportunity to disagree with the amount you owe.

“I do not believe I should be responsible for penalties.” The IRS Independent Office of Appeals may remove all or part of the penalties if you have a reasonable cause for not paying or not filing on time. See Notice 746, Information About Your Notice, Penalty and Interest for what is reasonable cause for removing penalties.

“I have already paid all or part of my taxes.” You disagree with the amount the IRS says you haven't paid if you think you have not received credit for payments you have already made.

See Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process, for more information on the following topics: Installment Agreements and Offers in Compromise; Lien Subordination, Discharge, and Withdrawal; Innocent Spouse Relief; Temporarily Delay Collection; and belief that tax bill is wrong.

Catalog Number 26685D

www.irs.gov

Form 12153 (Rev. 2-2020)

Document Specifications

Fact Name Description
Purpose The IRS Form 12153 is used to request a collection due process hearing when taxpayers disagree with a lien or levy issued by the IRS.
Eligibility Any taxpayer who has received a notice of lien or levy can file Form 12153 to contest the action.
Filing Timeframe Taxpayers must submit Form 12153 within 30 days of receiving the notice to ensure their request is considered.
Submission Method Form 12153 can be submitted by mail or fax to the appropriate IRS office indicated in the notice received.
Related Information Instructions for completing Form 12153 are available on the IRS website, providing necessary guidance for proper submission.
Governing Law This form is governed by the Internal Revenue Code, specifically Section 6320 and Section 6330, which outline taxpayer rights in the collection process.

Steps to Filling Out IRS 12153

After receiving a notice from the IRS that you disagree with, filling out Form 12153 is your first step toward resolving the issue. This form allows you to request a Collection Due Process hearing. It's important to take your time, ensuring that all necessary information is correctly entered. Here’s how to go about completing the form.

  1. Begin by downloading the IRS Form 12153 from the official IRS website or obtaining a paper copy.
  2. At the top of the form, fill in your name, address, and Social Security Number. Make sure the information matches what the IRS has on file.
  3. Provide the reason for requesting the hearing in the designated section. Be clear and concise, explaining the basis of your disagreement.
  4. Next, indicate whether you wish to receive a notice of hearing date and the method of communication (mail or fax).
  5. In the space provided, list any income and expenses that support your case. Accurate figures here can help your argument.
  6. Review the section for claiming any additional information you wish to include with your request. Attach any necessary documents to strengthen your position.
  7. Sign and date the form at the bottom to confirm that the information provided is correct and complete.
  8. Lastly, make a copy of the completed form for your records before submitting it to the appropriate IRS address indicated in the instructions.

Once you have submitted the form, it will begin the process of scheduling your hearing. You should receive confirmation from the IRS regarding the next steps. If you have any additional questions or need assistance, consider seeking advice from a qualified tax professional.

More About IRS 12153

What is IRS Form 12153?

The IRS Form 12153 is a Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing. Taxpayers use this form to appeal certain IRS collection actions, such as a tax lien or levy. It provides a way to resolve disputes about these actions before they escalate further.

Who should use Form 12153?

Taxpayers facing a notice of a tax lien or levy have the right to contest these IRS actions. If you've received a notice that you believe is incorrect or if you need to discuss alternative payment options, Form 12153 is your tool for initiating an appeal. It's especially important for those who feel that their rights are being compromised.

How do I submit Form 12153?

To submit Form 12153, simply fill out the required sections regarding your contact information and the reason for your appeal. Then, mail it to the address provided in the notice you received. You can also submit it by fax if that’s a listed option. Keep a copy for your records so you have proof of your submission.

What is the deadline for submitting Form 12153?

You generally have 30 days from the date of the IRS notice to file Form 12153. Meeting this deadline is crucial; otherwise, you may lose the right to appeal the IRS decision. It's a good idea to act quickly to ensure your case is heard.

What happens after I submit Form 12153?

Once you submit Form 12153, the IRS will review your request. They may contact you for additional information or to schedule a hearing. During this time, collection efforts are typically put on hold until a decision is reached. This period of relief allows taxpayers to prepare their case without the pressure of immediate collection actions.

Can I appeal if my issue is about something other than a tax lien or levy?

Form 12153 is specifically for collection actions like liens and levies. However, if you have other IRS-related issues, such as disputes about your tax return, other forms may be required. Make sure to identify the right path for your specific situation to ensure your concerns are heard properly.

Where can I find assistance if I have questions about Form 12153?

If you have questions or need help with Form 12153, the IRS provides various resources online, including guides and FAQs. You can also reach out to a tax professional for personalized assistance, especially if your case is complex. Don't hesitate to seek help to navigate the process confidently.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many individuals neglect to provide all required information. Failing to include your personal details, like your Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number, can lead to processing delays.

  2. Incorrect Filing Year: It’s crucial to select the correct tax year for which you are requesting a review. Errors in this selection can result in your request being denied or incorrectly processed.

  3. Insufficient Documentation: Not including necessary supporting documents can hinder your appeal. If you have evidence to support your case, attach it to your form to strengthen your argument.

  4. Missing Signature: Some people forget to sign their form. A form submitted without a signature will be considered invalid, leading to additional delays or the need for resubmission.

  5. Not Following Up: After submitting your form, many assume no news is good news. It’s wise to follow up to ensure your request has been received and is being processed. Ignoring this step can lead to missed deadlines.

Documents used along the form

The IRS Form 12153 is a Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing. This form is used by taxpayers who wish to appeal the IRS's decision regarding collection actions. In conjunction with Form 12153, several other documents may be required to support the filing process or to address specific tax issues. Below is a list of frequently associated forms and documents.

  • Form 1040: The standard individual income tax return form used by taxpayers to report their annual income and calculate taxes owed or refunds due.
  • Form 9465: This form is used to request a monthly installment plan to pay taxes owed to the IRS, providing an option if taxpayers cannot pay in full.
  • Form 433-A: A Collection Information Statement that provides the IRS with a detailed overview of a taxpayer's financial situation, including income, expenses, and assets.
  • Form 433-B: Similar to Form 433-A, but specifically for businesses. It outlines a business's financial status, helping the IRS evaluate collection options.
  • Form 2848: The Power of Attorney form allows taxpayers to authorize someone to represent them before the IRS and receive confidential information on their behalf.
  • Publication 1: This publication provides taxpayers with their rights when dealing with the IRS, including the right to appeal and to be treated fairly.
  • Form 8821: This form is used to authorize the IRS to disclose a taxpayer's confidential tax information to a designated third party.
  • Form 12509: Notice of Deficiency, often used to claim that a taxpayer does not agree with the IRS’s adjustments of their tax return.

Gathering the necessary documents when filing Form 12153 is crucial for effectively managing tax matters. Ensuring all appropriate forms are submitted can significantly impact the outcome of any appeals or negotiations with the IRS.

Similar forms

The IRS Form 12153, Request for a Collection Due Process or Equivalent Hearing, serves as a means for taxpayers to appeal certain IRS collection actions. Another similar document is the IRS Form 843, Request for Abatement. Like the 12153, Form 843 is used to petition the IRS for relief from specific tax issues, such as overpayments or penalties. While the 12153 focuses on appeals related to collection actions, the 843 seeks to address issues concerning adjustments to tax assessments and refunds, thus helping taxpayers navigate their individual circumstances effectively.

Form 911, Application for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, is another document that shares a close resemblance to Form 12153. Both forms facilitate communication between taxpayers and the IRS, allowing individuals to present their cases. Where Form 12153 serves mainly for collection due process hearings, Form 911 is aimed at seeking intervention and support from the Taxpayer Advocate Service when the IRS processes encounter difficulties. Taxpayers often utilize both forms to ensure their voices are heard and their rights protected during tax-related disputes.

Additionally, there’s IRS Form 1024, Application for Recognition of Exemption under Section 501(a). While the primary purpose of this form is to seek tax-exempt status for organizations, it parallels Form 12153 in the way it requires a clear and concise presentation of the petitioner’s arguments. Both forms demand supporting evidence and documentation, requiring careful consideration and preparation. Taxpayers, whether individual or organizational, must clearly articulate the reasons for their requests to facilitate the IRS’s evaluation process.

Form 8862, Information To Claim Earned Income Credit After Disallowance, also showcases similarities to Form 12153. Although its focus is different, the completion of Form 8862 allows taxpayers to challenge prior disallowances of their earned income credit. Both forms require transparency and detailed information to ensure that the taxpayer’s case is properly understood and addressed by the IRS. In essence, these forms empower individuals in their quest for justice regarding their tax situations.

Lastly, the IRS Form 8821, Tax Authority Authorization, shares some parallels with Form 12153. While Form 8821 grants authorization for a third party to discuss a taxpayer’s account with the IRS regarding exact tax matters, it indirectly supports the taxpayer’s ability to navigate complex issues, especially during appeals. Similar to the 12153, clear communication between the taxpayer, their representatives, and the IRS is essential to resolve disputes and questions effectively. Both forms ultimately aim to secure the taxpayer's rights in their dealings with the IRS.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the IRS 12153 form, it's essential to be mindful of certain guidelines. This form is a request for a Collection Due Process hearing, and providing accurate information is crucial for the process to move forward effectively. Below are important points to consider:

Do's:

  • Ensure all personal information is accurate and up to date.
  • Clearly indicate your reason for requesting a hearing.
  • Attach any relevant documentation that supports your case.
  • Sign and date the form before submitting it.
  • Submit the form by mail or electronically, as per IRS guidelines.

Don'ts:

  • Do not leave any fields blank; provide information for all sections.
  • Never use unclear or vague language in your explanations.
  • Avoid sending the form to an incorrect address.
  • Do not forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

Following these guidelines will help ensure that your request is processed smoothly. Timeliness and accuracy are key in dealing with IRS matters.

Misconceptions

Many individuals have misunderstandings about IRS Form 12153, which can lead to confusion when dealing with tax issues. Addressing these misconceptions is essential for making informed decisions. Here are ten common misconceptions about this form:

  1. Form 12153 is only for businesses. Many people believe this form is exclusively for businesses. In reality, individuals can also use it to request a collection due process hearing.
  2. Filing Form 12153 guarantees a delay in payment. While submitting this form may delay enforcement actions, it does not prevent all collection efforts.
  3. There is a strict deadline for filing. Some think there is a narrow time frame to submit the form. The truth is, taxpayers generally have 30 days from the date of the notice to file.
  4. Form 12153 can only be filed once. This is not accurate. Taxpayers can file the form multiple times if they receive different collection notices.
  5. Completing the form is a complex process. Many individuals feel overwhelmed by the form's requirements. However, it is designed to be user-friendly and straightforward.
  6. Only tax professionals can file this form. Taxpayers often think they need a professional for this process. In fact, anyone can fill it out and submit it themselves.
  7. IRS will automatically grant the hearing. Submitting Form 12153 does not guarantee that the IRS will approve the hearing request. The IRS reviews each request before making a decision.
  8. The form affects future tax returns. Some believe that filing this form will negatively impact their future tax filings. This is not the case, as filing Form 12153 is a request related to specific collection actions.
  9. Form 12153 is only for individuals owing a large amount of tax. People often think this form is only applicable to those with significant tax debts. However, it is useful for anyone who has received a collection notice.
  10. The form can only be submitted by mail. While mailing is one option, taxpayers can also submit Form 12153 electronically, saving time in some cases.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals feel more confident when navigating tax-related issues involving the IRS. Being informed is the first step toward addressing any tax concerns effectively.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the IRS Form 12153, which is a request for a Collection Due Process Hearing, can feel daunting. However, understanding its key aspects can facilitate the process. Here are five takeaways to keep in mind:

  1. Know Your Deadlines: Ensure you submit the form within the required timeframe—typically 30 days from the date of the IRS notice regarding the levy. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to contest the levy.
  2. Be Clear and Concise: When explaining why you believe the IRS levy should not proceed, provide straightforward, factual statements. Avoid unnecessary details that could dilute your main points.
  3. Gather Supporting Documents: Any documents or evidence that support your case should accompany the form. This might include income statements, proof of expenses, or other relevant materials.
  4. Stay Organized: Keep a copy of everything you submit. Having your own records can be valuable in case you need to reference them later during the hearing process.
  5. Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with taxpayer rights. Knowing your rights can empower you during the hearing and help ensure your voice is heard.

By keeping these key takeaways in mind, you can approach the process with confidence and clarity.