Contents
The IRS 911 form serves as a crucial tool for individuals facing financial hardship, providing a pathway for taxpayers to request assistance from the Internal Revenue Service. This form is primarily utilized to seek relief from tax-related issues, such as the inability to pay taxes due or to request an extension for filing. Taxpayers can also use it to address situations where they are experiencing economic distress, allowing them to communicate their circumstances effectively to the IRS. The form requires detailed information about the taxpayer's financial situation, including income, expenses, and any other relevant details that may influence the IRS's decision. By completing the IRS 911 form, individuals can potentially negotiate payment plans or deferment options, thereby alleviating some of the stress associated with tax obligations. Understanding the implications and requirements of this form is essential for anyone navigating the complexities of tax-related financial difficulties.
Preview - IRS 911 Form
Catalog Number 16965S www.irs.gov
Form
911 (Rev. 8-2025)
Form 911
(August 2025)
Department of the Treasury - Internal Revenue Service
Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance
(and Application for Taxpayer Assistance Order)
OMB Number
1545-1504
Section I – Taxpayer Information (See Pages 3 and 4 for Form 911 Filing Requirements and Instructions for Completing this Form)
1a. Taxpayer name as shown on tax return 1b. Taxpayer Identifying Number (SSN, ITIN, EIN)
2a. Spouse's name as shown on tax return (if joint return) 2b. Spouse's Taxpayer Identifying Number (SSN, ITIN)
3a. Taxpayer current street address (number, street, & apt. number)
3b. City 3c. State or province 3d. Country (if applicable) 3e. ZIP code/Foreign postal
4. Daytime phone number 5. Email address 6. Fax number (if applicable)
7a.
Check here if you consent to receive and send encrypted
emails with Taxpayer Advocate Service for the duration of the
interactions on your tax issue
7b.
Check here if you consent to have confidential information
about your tax issue left on your answering machine or voice
message at this number
8. Person to contact if no authorized third party
9. Preferred language (if applicable)
TTY/TDD Line Interpreter needed - Specify language other than English (including sign language)
Other (specify)
10. Tax form number (1040, 941, 720, etc.) 11. Tax year(s) or period(s)
12a. Describe the tax issue you are experiencing and any difficulties it may be creating
(If more space is needed, attach additional sheets.) (See instructions for completing Lines 12a and 12b)
12b. Describe the relief/assistance you are requesting (if more space is needed, attach additional sheets)
13. How did the taxpayer learn about the Taxpayer Advocate Service
IRS forms or publications Website IRS employee Other (specify)
I understand that Taxpayer Advocate Service employees may contact third parties to respond to this request and I authorize such
contacts to be made. Further, by authorizing the Taxpayer Advocate Service to contact third parties, I understand that I will not receive
notice, pursuant to section 7602(c) of the Internal Revenue Code, of authorized third parties contacted in connection with this request.
14a. Signature of taxpayer or duly authorized officer, and title, if applicable 14b. Date signed
15a. Signature of spouse (if joint assistance request) 15b. Date signed
Page 2
Catalog Number 16965S www.irs.gov
Form
911 (Rev. 8-2025)
Section II – Third Party Information (See instructions before completing this section)
A. Form 2848, Power of Attorney
1. Name of authorized third party 2. Centralized Authorization File (CAF) number
3a. Current mailing address (number, street, & apt. number)
3b. City 3c. State or province 3d. Country (if applicable) 3e. ZIP code/Foreign postal
4. Daytime phone number 5. Fax number
6. Signature of third party (representative only) 7. Date signed (representative only)
B. Form 8821, Authorization to Receive Notices
Form 8821 does not authorize your appointee to advocate your position with respect to the federal tax laws, to execute waivers,
consents, or closing agreements, or to otherwise represent you before the IRS. Form 8821 authorizes anyone you designate to inspect
and/or receive your confidential tax information in any office of the IRS, for the type of tax and tax periods you list on Form 8821.
1. Name of authorized third party 2. Centralized Authorization File (CAF) number
3a. Current mailing address (number, street, & apt. number)
3b. City 3c. State or province 3d. Country (if applicable) 3e. ZIP code/Foreign postal
4. Daytime phone number 5. Fax number
6. Signature of third party (representative only) 7. Date signed (representative only)
Page 3
Catalog Number 16965S www.irs.gov
Form
911 (Rev. 8-2025)
Instructions for Form 911, Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance
(and Application for Taxpayer Assistance Order)
Important Things You Should Know
• Remember to submit any documentation you believe would assist us in resolving the issue, as this may result in a quicker
resolution of your issue.
• The Taxpayer Advocate Service will let you know if your request for assistance has been accepted and may contact you to
discuss your tax issue. If unable to reach you by phone, the employee will mail you a letter or leave a voicemail if you provided
consent on line 7b. Email is not available as a method of communication until a case has been created, and you have consented
to receive and send encrypted email during the duration of your case.
• If you are a low-income taxpayer who needs help in resolving a tax dispute with the Internal Revenue Service and cannot afford
representation, or if you speak English as a second language and need help understanding your rights and responsibilities, you
may qualify for free or low-cost assistance from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC). For more information, see Publication
4134 or visit our LITC page at: www.irs.gov/advocate/low-income-taxpayer-clinics.
Information About the Taxpayer Advocate Service
The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that helps
taxpayers resolve federal tax issues and protects taxpayers' rights. TAS may be able to assist if your federal tax problem is causing
a financial difficulty, you’ve tried and been unable to resolve your issue with the IRS, or if an IRS system, process, or procedure just
isn't working as it should. If you qualify for our assistance, which is always free, we will do everything possible to help you. Visit
www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov for more information.
How to Send this Form:
• Mail: 7940 Kentucky Dr, MS 11 G, Florence, KY 41042
• Fax: (855) 828-2723
• E-Mail: [email protected]
• Sending the form from overseas:
- Fax: 1 (304) 707-9793 (Not a toll-free number for U.S. taxpayers)
- E-Mail: [email protected]
Disclaimer Notice: Email submissions to TAS of Form 911 and attachments are not encrypted for security. If you submit a Form 911
through email TAS will not reply to your email. Instead, you will be contacted by a TAS employee by either phone or letter about your
request for assistance.
What Happens Next?
If you don't receive a response within 30 days of submitting Form 911, call 877-777-4778 for assistance. Do not submit multiple Form
911s for the same issue since this may cause delays with processing your inquiry for TAS assistance.
Caution: TAS will not consider frivolous arguments raised on this form. You can find examples of frivolous arguments in Publication
2105, Why do I have to Pay Taxes?, or the Truth About Frivolous Arguments at www.irs.gov/privacy-disclosure/the-truth-about-
frivolous-tax-arguments-introduction. If you use this form to raise frivolous arguments, you may be subject to a penalty of $5,000, in
addition to any other penalty provided by law.
Paperwork Reduction Act Notice: We ask for the information on this form to carry out the Internal Revenue laws of the United
States. Your response is voluntary. You are not required to provide the information requested on a form that is subject to the Paperwork
Reduction Act unless the form displays a valid OMB control number. Books or records relating to a form, or its instructions must be
retained if their contents may become material in the administration of any Internal Revenue law. Generally, tax returns and return
information are confidential, as required by Code section 6103. Although the time needed to complete this form may vary depending on
each taxpayer’s circumstances, the estimated average time is 30 minutes.
Should you have comments concerning the accuracy of this time estimate or suggestions for making this form simpler, send us
comments through www.IRS.gov/FormsComments.
Instructions for Section I
1a. Enter the taxpayer's name as shown on the tax return relating to this request for assistance.
1b. Enter the Taxpayer Identifying Number. If you're an individual this will be either a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual
Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you're a business entity this will be your Employer Identification Number (EIN) (e.g., a
partnership, corporation, trust or self-employed individual with employees, tax-exempt organization).
2a. Enter the spouse's name (if applicable) if this request relates to a jointly filed return.
2b. Enter the spouse's Taxpayer Identifying Number (SSN or ITIN) if this request relates to a jointly filed return.
Instructions for Section I
continue on the next page
►
Page 4
Catalog Number 16965S www.irs.gov
Form
911 (Rev. 8-2025)
3a-e. Enter the taxpayer’s current mailing address, including street number and name, city, state or province, foreign country, and ZIP
code or Foreign postal.
4. Enter your daytime telephone number, including the area code.
5. Enter your email address. TAS may use email to receive and share information with you if you checked the box in 7a consenting
to receive and send encrypted email with the TAS for the duration of the interactions on your tax issue. See line 7(a).
6. Enter your fax number, including area code. (If applicable)
7a. Check the box if you consent to receive and send encrypted email with the Taxpayer Advocate Service for the duration of the
interactions on your tax issue. You are not obligated to receive or send encrypted email with the Taxpayer Advocate Service.
7b. Check the box If you have an answering machine or voice mail at this number and you consent to TAS leaving confidential
information about your tax issue at this number. You are not obligated to have information about your tax issue left at this
number. If other individuals have access to the answering machine or the voice mail and you do not wish for them to receive
any confidential information about your tax issue, please do not check the box.
8. For an entity (partnerships, corporations, trusts, estates, tax-exempt organizations, etc.) enter the name of the individual
authorized to act on the entity's behalf unless there is an authorized third party identified in Section II.
For an individual taxpayer you will need an authorized third party as discussed in Section II and its instructions before TAS can
share your information with someone else. Information can be shared between married taxpayers as long as both were included
on the return(s) at issue and a filing status of married filing a joint return was used.
9. Indicate any special communication needs (such as sign language). Specify any language other than English.
10. Enter the number of the federal tax return or form relating to this request. For example, an individual taxpayer with an income
tax issue would enter Form 1040.
11. Enter the quarterly, annual, or other tax year or period relating to this request. For example, if this request involves an income
tax issue, enter the calendar or fiscal year. If in involves an employment tax issue, enter the calendar quarter.
12a. Describe the federal tax issue you are experiencing and any difficulties it may be creating. Specify the actions the IRS has taken
(or not taken) to resolve the issue. If the issue involves an IRS delay of more than 30 days in resolving your issue, indicate the
date you first contacted the IRS for assistance. For further information on the services TAS provides, see Publication 1546, The
Taxpayer Advocate Service Is Your Voice at the IRS, available at https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1546.pdf.
12b. Describe the relief/assistance you are requesting. Specify the action you want taken and believe necessary to resolve the issue.
Submit any documentation you believe would assist TAS in resolving the issue.
13. Specify how you learned about the Taxpayer Advocate Service.
14-15. If this is a joint assistance request, both spouses must sign and date the request. If only one spouse is requesting assistance,
only that spouse must sign the request. If this request is being submitted for another individual, only a person authorized and
empowered to act on the individual's behalf should sign the request. Requests for businesses must be signed by a properly
authorized officer and include their title.
Note: The signing of this request is not a substitute for any legal or administrative action applicable to your situation and does not
suspend any applicable periods for you to perform acts related to assessment or collection, such as petitioning the Tax Court for
redetermination of a deficiency or requesting a Collection Due Process hearing.
Instructions for Section II
Taxpayers: If you wish to have a representative act on your behalf, you must give him/her power of attorney via a Form 2848, Power of
Attorney and Declaration of Representative. If you wish to only have someone receive tax notices on your tax account, you must have the
third party sign a Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization. Read through the instructions on both forms carefully.
• Complete this section only if you have a representative acting on your behalf. Leave any field blank if you don’t know the
requested information. Only representatives sign in this section. This is for information purposes only to assist TAS in the case
creation process. Include a copy of the Form 2848 or 8821, if available.
Representatives: If you are an authorized representative submitting this request on behalf of the taxpayer identified in Section I, complete
Blocks 1 through 7 of Section II. Attach a copy of Form 2848, Form 8821, or other power of attorney. Enter your Centralized Authorization
File (CAF) number in Block 2 of Section II. The CAF number is the unique number the IRS assigns to a representative after Form 2848 or
Form 8821 is filed with an IRS office. Sign the Form 911 in this section. The taxpayer does not need to sign the Form 911 if it is being
submitted by an authorized representative.
Document Specifics
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The IRS 911 form is used to request assistance from the IRS regarding tax-related issues, such as financial hardship or urgent matters requiring immediate attention. |
| Eligibility | Any taxpayer facing financial difficulties or urgent issues can use this form to seek help from the IRS. |
| Submission Method | The form can be submitted via fax or mail to the appropriate IRS office, depending on the specific situation of the taxpayer. |
| Processing Time | While the IRS aims to respond promptly, processing times can vary based on the complexity of the request and the current workload of the IRS. |
| State-Specific Forms | Some states may have their own forms for tax assistance, governed by state laws such as the California Revenue and Taxation Code or the New York Tax Law. |
IRS 911: Usage Instruction
After obtaining the IRS Form 911, you will need to fill it out accurately to ensure your request is processed efficiently. Follow the steps below to complete the form correctly.
- Begin by entering your personal information at the top of the form. This includes your name, address, and Social Security number.
- Provide details about your tax situation. Specify the tax year related to your request.
- Indicate the type of assistance you are seeking. This may involve checking specific boxes on the form.
- Clearly explain your circumstances in the designated area. Be concise but thorough in describing your situation.
- Include any relevant documentation that supports your request. This may include financial statements or letters from other agencies.
- Sign and date the form at the bottom. Ensure that you are the individual making the request.
- Review the completed form for accuracy before submitting it. Double-check all information to avoid delays.
- Submit the form to the appropriate IRS office. Check the IRS website for the correct mailing address based on your location.
Learn More on IRS 911
- Long delays in the processing of tax returns or refunds
- Issues with audits or appeals
- Financial difficulties caused by IRS actions
- Miscommunication or lack of communication from the IRS
- Your personal information, including your name and Social Security number
- A description of the issue you are facing
- Any relevant IRS correspondence
- Your contact information
What is the IRS 911 form?
The IRS 911 form, also known as the Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, is used to seek help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS). This service is designed to assist taxpayers who are experiencing problems with the IRS that they cannot resolve through normal channels.
Who can use the IRS 911 form?
Any taxpayer facing significant issues with the IRS can use this form. This includes individuals, businesses, and organizations that feel their rights have been violated or that they are experiencing financial hardship due to IRS actions.
What types of issues can the IRS 911 form address?
The form can help with a variety of problems, such as:
How do I submit the IRS 911 form?
You can submit the form by mail, fax, or in person at a local TAS office. Be sure to include all necessary information and documentation to support your case. The address or fax number will be provided on the form itself.
Is there a deadline for submitting the IRS 911 form?
There is no strict deadline for submitting the IRS 911 form. However, it is best to submit it as soon as you recognize a problem. The sooner you reach out for assistance, the better your chances of resolving the issue quickly.
What information do I need to provide on the IRS 911 form?
When filling out the form, you will need to provide:
Will I receive confirmation after submitting the IRS 911 form?
Yes, once the form is processed, you should receive confirmation from the Taxpayer Advocate Service. This may take some time, so be patient while they review your request.
What happens after I submit the IRS 911 form?
After submission, a representative from the Taxpayer Advocate Service will review your case. They may contact you for more information or to discuss your situation. The goal is to help you resolve your issue with the IRS as quickly as possible.
Is there a cost to use the IRS 911 form?
No, there is no cost to submit the IRS 911 form or to receive assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service. This service is provided free of charge to taxpayers.
Can I get help with other tax issues through the IRS 911 form?
The IRS 911 form specifically addresses issues that cannot be resolved through normal IRS processes. For general tax questions or issues, it is advisable to contact the IRS directly or seek help from a tax professional.
Common mistakes
Filling out the IRS Form 911, also known as the Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, can be a straightforward process. However, many individuals make common mistakes that can delay their requests or lead to misunderstandings. One frequent error is providing incomplete information. When filling out the form, it is crucial to include all required details, such as personal information and a clear description of the issue. Omitting even minor details can result in processing delays.
Another mistake often made is failing to clearly state the reason for the request. The form asks for a specific explanation of the problem. If this section is vague or unclear, the IRS may not fully understand the situation, which can hinder the assistance process. A well-defined issue allows the Taxpayer Advocate Service to address the matter more effectively.
Additionally, some individuals neglect to include relevant documentation that supports their case. Providing supporting documents can strengthen the request and clarify the taxpayer's situation. Without this documentation, the IRS may not have enough information to proceed, potentially leading to a rejection of the request.
Lastly, people sometimes submit the form without checking for errors. Simple mistakes, such as typos or incorrect Social Security numbers, can create significant issues. It is advisable to review the form thoroughly before submission to ensure accuracy. Taking these steps can help streamline the process and increase the likelihood of receiving timely assistance.
Documents used along the form
The IRS Form 911 is a crucial document for individuals seeking assistance with tax-related issues. It allows taxpayers to request help from the IRS when facing financial hardships or other challenges that affect their ability to meet tax obligations. Along with this form, several other documents may be necessary to support your request or provide additional information. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that may accompany the IRS Form 911.
- Form 1040: This is the standard individual income tax return form used by taxpayers to report their annual income and calculate their tax liability.
- Form 4506-T: This form is used to request a transcript of tax returns from the IRS, which can help verify income and tax status when seeking assistance.
- Form 9465: This form allows taxpayers to request a monthly installment plan if they are unable to pay their tax debt in full.
- Form 433-A: This form is a collection information statement for individuals. It provides detailed financial information to the IRS to evaluate a taxpayer's ability to pay.
- Form 433-B: Similar to Form 433-A, this document is used by businesses to provide financial information to the IRS when seeking assistance or negotiating payment options.
- Form 8821: This form allows taxpayers to authorize an individual or organization to receive confidential tax information from the IRS on their behalf.
- Financial Statements: These documents outline income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. They help the IRS understand the taxpayer's financial situation.
Gathering the necessary documents can streamline the process of seeking assistance from the IRS. Each form plays a specific role in providing a clear picture of your financial circumstances, helping the IRS to understand your situation better. By preparing these documents, you can ensure that your request for help is thorough and well-supported.
Similar forms
The IRS Form 911, also known as the Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, serves as a crucial tool for taxpayers facing difficulties with the IRS. A similar document is the IRS Form 1040, which is the standard individual income tax return form. Both documents require personal information and are used to communicate with the IRS regarding a taxpayer's situation. While Form 1040 is primarily for reporting income and calculating taxes owed, Form 911 is specifically designed to request help when a taxpayer feels they are not receiving fair treatment or their issue is not being resolved in a timely manner.
Another document that shares similarities with Form 911 is the IRS Form 843, which is a Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement. Like Form 911, Form 843 is used to request assistance from the IRS, but it focuses on seeking a refund or abatement of taxes. Taxpayers fill out this form when they believe they have overpaid their taxes or when they seek relief from penalties. Both forms highlight the need for taxpayers to communicate their concerns to the IRS, although they serve different purposes in the tax resolution process.
The IRS Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization, also bears resemblance to Form 911. This form allows taxpayers to authorize someone, such as a tax professional, to receive and discuss their tax information with the IRS. While Form 911 is used when a taxpayer is experiencing issues and needs assistance, Form 8821 is more about granting permission for someone else to act on their behalf. Both forms facilitate communication with the IRS but do so in different contexts, emphasizing the importance of taxpayer rights and representation.
Lastly, the IRS Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative, is another document that is similar to Form 911. This form allows a taxpayer to appoint a representative to act on their behalf in dealings with the IRS. Like Form 911, it serves to improve communication with the IRS, but it goes a step further by granting legal authority to the appointed representative. Taxpayers often use both forms when they encounter problems or need assistance, highlighting the various ways in which individuals can seek help and representation in their interactions with the IRS.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the IRS 911 form, it's crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure your submission is accurate and effective. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts:
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
- Do provide complete and accurate information.
- Do double-check your contact information.
- Do submit the form as soon as possible if you are facing financial hardship.
- Don't leave any required fields blank.
- Don't provide misleading or false information.
- Don't forget to sign and date the form.
- Don't wait until the last minute to submit your request.
Following these guidelines can help facilitate a smoother process and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Misconceptions
The IRS Form 911, also known as the Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, is a valuable tool for taxpayers facing issues with the IRS. However, several misconceptions about this form can lead to confusion. Here’s a look at eight common misunderstandings:
- Form 911 is only for serious tax problems. Many people believe that this form is only necessary for severe cases. In reality, it can be used for a variety of issues, including delays in processing returns or lack of communication from the IRS.
- You must have a specific dollar amount in dispute to use Form 911. Some think that only large tax disputes qualify for assistance. However, the form is available for any taxpayer needing help, regardless of the amount involved.
- Filing Form 911 guarantees a quick resolution. While the form can expedite assistance, it does not guarantee immediate solutions. The complexity of the issue can affect how quickly the IRS responds.
- Form 911 is only for individuals. This misconception suggests that only individual taxpayers can use the form. In fact, businesses and organizations can also seek help through Form 911.
- Using Form 911 means you’re in trouble with the IRS. Some taxpayers fear that filing this form indicates wrongdoing. In truth, it is simply a request for assistance and does not imply any wrongdoing.
- You must have exhausted all other options before filing Form 911. While it’s encouraged to try resolving issues directly with the IRS first, it is not a strict requirement to file Form 911.
- Form 911 can be used for any IRS issue. This form is specifically for issues that require the assistance of the Taxpayer Advocate Service. Not every IRS problem qualifies for this type of help.
- There’s a fee to file Form 911. Many believe that there is a cost associated with this form. In reality, it is free to file and seek assistance through the Taxpayer Advocate Service.
Understanding these misconceptions can help taxpayers navigate their issues with the IRS more effectively. If you believe you need assistance, consider reaching out and utilizing Form 911.
Key takeaways
Filling out the IRS Form 911 can be crucial for those facing financial difficulties. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Understand the Purpose: The IRS Form 911 is designed to request assistance from the IRS if you are experiencing financial hardship.
- Eligibility Criteria: You must demonstrate that you are unable to pay your tax liabilities due to circumstances beyond your control.
- Complete Information: Ensure all sections of the form are filled out accurately. Missing information can delay your request.
- Provide Supporting Documents: Attach any necessary documentation that supports your claim of financial hardship.
- Follow Up: After submitting the form, keep track of your request. The IRS may contact you for additional information.
- Seek Help if Needed: If you're unsure about filling out the form or your eligibility, consider consulting a tax professional for guidance.
Taking these steps can help ensure that your request is processed smoothly and efficiently. Don't delay in seeking assistance if you need it.