Don’t Be Held Liable for Your Spouse’s Tax Mistakes
Innocent Spouse Relief Attorney in Seattle, WA
You shouldn't have to pay for someone else’s financial missteps. If your spouse—or ex-spouse—caused a tax debt you didn’t know about or didn’t agree to, you may qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief through the IRS.
When two spouses file a joint tax return, the IRS considers both people equally responsible for any taxes owed—regardless of who earned the income or caused the debt. This is called joint and several liability.
But in certain cases, it would be unfair to hold both spouses equally responsible. That’s where Innocent Spouse Relief comes in. This IRS program gives you the opportunity to seek relief from tax debt that rightfully belongs to your spouse or former spouse.
What Is Innocent Spouse Relief?
Common Situations That May Qualify You
- You owe over $30,000 in tax debt—but your spouse handled the finances.
- You’re divorced or have been legally separated for 12 months or more.
- You received an IRS notice about a joint tax return you didn’t prepare.
- Your spouse underreported income or overstated deductions without telling you.
- You live in a community property state like Washington and didn’t know about income earned or hidden by your spouse.
If any of these apply, we’ll review your case and help you determine whether filing IRS
Form 8857 is your best course of action.
Types of Relief Available
Depending on your unique situation, the IRS offers multiple options for protection:
Innocent Spouse Relief
Complete release from tax, interest, and penalties related to your spouse’s improper reporting or underpayment—if you didn’t know or had no reason to know.
Separation of Liability
Applies primarily to divorced or legally separated spouses, and allocates the tax debt between both individuals.
Equitable Relief
If you don’t qualify for the first two but it would still be unfair to hold you liable, equitable relief may apply—especially in cases involving abuse, deception, or lack of access to finances.
How We Help You Qualify
Case Evaluation
We review your tax history and relationship timeline to determine eligibility.
Evidence Preparation
We gather supporting documentation to strengthen your IRS Form 8857 submission.
IRS Representation
We communicate directly with the IRS on your behalf, ensuring accuracy and clarity.
Appeals & Legal Defense
If necessary, we appeal unfair denials and protect your legal rights throughout the process.
Whether you're newly divorced or discovering hidden liabilities from years past, we’ll guide you through every step with honesty and care.
Why Choose Boeshaar Law?
With 25+ years in tax law and 14 years as an IRS attorney, Rober Boeshaar brings a level of experience and insight few firms can match. But more importantly, we treat every innocent spouse case with respect, discretion, and compassion—because we know these cases are deeply personal.
✔️ Deep IRS Knowledge from the Inside
✔️ Discreet, Judgment-Free Legal Support
✔️ Tailored Guidance for Complex Marital Tax Cases
✔️ Clear Fee Structure—No Surprises
Can I apply for relief if I’m still married?
Yes. You don’t have to be divorced or separated to qualify, especially if you meet the criteria for Innocent Spouse or Equitable Relief.
What if I signed the return?
Signing doesn’t automatically mean you’re responsible—especially if you were unaware of the misstatements or were pressured into signing.
What if I didn’t file jointly?
If you live in a community property state like Washington, and didn’t know about your spouse’s income, relief may still be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Talk to a Seattle Innocent Spouse Relief Attorney Today
If you’ve been contacted by the IRS about your spouse’s tax debt—or fear you will be—don’t wait. These cases have deadlines, and early action can make all the difference.