Understanding IRS Special Agents
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employs Special Agents as part of its Criminal Investigation (CI) division. These agents are tasked with investigating suspected criminal violations of tax laws.
Circumstances for a Home Visit
IRS Special Agents may visit a taxpayer’s home in specific situations, including:
- Overdue tax bills
- Unfiled tax returns
- Failure to make employment tax deposits
- Suspected criminal tax violations
Reasons for Unannounced Visits
Special Agents may conduct unannounced visits to:
- Gather evidence and information
- Execute search warrants
- Interview individuals related to the investigation
Can Special Agents Arrest You?
In most cases, Special Agents cannot arrest you on the spot unless they have an arrest warrant or witness you committing a crime.
Your Rights During a Visit
If an IRS Special Agent visits your home, you have the right to:
- Request their identification and credentials
- Politely decline to speak with them without an attorney present
- Contact an attorney immediately
Preventing a Criminal Investigation
To minimize the risk of a criminal investigation, consider:
- Filing your tax returns accurately and on time
- Paying your taxes in full and on time
- Seeking professional tax advice if you have complex tax matters
Golding & Golding: Your International Tax Law Experts
If you are facing an IRS investigation, contact Golding & Golding, a leading international tax law firm specializing in IRS offshore voluntary disclosure. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the process and protect your rights.
Additional Information
IRS Contact Methods
The IRS typically initiates contact through regular mail. However, they may call or visit in certain circumstances.
IRS Credentials
IRS Special Agents carry two forms of identification:
- IRS-issued credentials (pocket commission)
- HSPD-12 card (governmentwide standard identification)
IRS Scams
Be aware of IRS impersonators who use threats and intimidation tactics. Report any suspicious activity to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
Understanding the role of IRS Special Agents and your rights during a home visit is crucial. If you receive an unannounced visit, remain calm, request identification, and contact an attorney immediately. By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself and navigate any potential tax investigations effectively.
Did A IRS Special Agent Or Criminal Investigator Come To Your Home Or Office, Here Is What To Do Now
FAQ
Why would an IRS agent came to my house?
Why would a Special Agent come to my house?
What do IRS special agents investigate?
Are IRS agents knocking on doors?
Why do IRS special agents show up at a home or business?
IRS special agents may also show up at a taxpayer’s home or business to conduct an IRS criminal investigation. Special agents may show up unannounced. Reasons IRS agents visit homes or businesses
Do IRS agents visit homes or businesses?
Other types of IRS agents may visit homes or businesses. For example, IRS revenue agents may conduct audits at a home or business. However, these agents will generally send a notice first regarding their upcoming visit and try to schedule a specific time and place to visit.
What should I do if an IRS agent shows up at my home?
What you should do is politely indicate that you will be getting representation to help you deal with your IRS-related problem. Their visit will typically be a formal warning to inform you about your tax issues. If a special agent shows up at your home, it is possible that the visit will end with an arrest.
Why does an IRS agent show up at a taxpayer’s doorstep?
There are several reasons why an IRS agent may show up at a taxpayer’s doorstep, such as: A revenue officer is sent to the taxpayer’s home or business to collect on severely delinquent taxes A taxpayer’s business owes taxes