You know you filed the return, your remember putting it in the mail slot.\u00a0 But the IRS claims they never got it.\u00a0 The same might be true with your Collection Due Process Appeal, Innocent Spouse claim, offer in compromise or your Collection Information Statement\u2014Form 433A<\/a>.<\/p>\n This doesn\u2019t happen that often but when it does, it can be devastating.\u00a0 So how do your protect your self from a disaster.<\/p>\n 1)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 File your return at the IRS office nearest you.\u00a0 When you give the person at the counter your return, ask them to date stamp a copy of the return that you brought with you.\u00a0 If the IRS loses your return, you now have proof that you filed it and the date it was filed.<\/p>\n 2)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Avoid putting more than one return in an envelope if you have to mail a return.\u00a0 Putting more than one return in an envelope increases the likelihood that one will be misplaced or ignored.\u00a0 Sounds silly but it works.\u00a0 My father learned this 45 years ago when did a tax return for a retired janitor from the Ogden, Utah IRS office.\u00a0 He explained how things were being processed and handled by IRS employees.\u00a0 His suggestion has proved very valuable over the years.<\/p>\n 3)\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 If you must mail something, send it certified mail return receipt requested.\u00a0 When you get the signed proof of delivery, staple it to a copy of what was sent.\u00a0 This is not proof that you sent it, it is only proof you sent something, but the IRS Appeals office will accept it as proof even if\u00a0 a Revenue Officer does not.<\/p>\n Scott Allen E. A. can stop IRS action in Mesa Arizona today for you if you find yourself in trouble with them. Don’t delay the call!<\/p>\n Tax Debt Advisors, Inc<\/p>\n