Can the IRS Whistleblower report be done via a Attorney/Accountant/agent to keep informant's information somewhat private?

[NetgearRouterGuy]

Can the IRS Whistleblower report be done via an Attorney/Accountant/agent to keep informant somewhat private?

Is such a thing possible?

Thanks.

 

[Taxing Matters]

Can the IRS Whistleblower report be done via an Attorney/Accountant/agent to keep informant somewhat private?

Is such a thing possible?

Thanks.

Sure, but if the source of the information (you) is not disclosed to the IRS that may hinder the ability of the IRS to pursue the matter.

 

[NetgearRouterGuy]

Sure, but if the source of the information (you) is not disclosed to the IRS that may hinder the ability of the IRS to pursue the matter.

Why would the identify of the informant(me) hinder the ability of the IRS to pursue the matter as long as the information I provide them is correct and can lead to the recovery of the funds?

The IRS could also ask question and get answers via the lawyer/accountant representative. I think the documents will speak for themselves.

 

[Taxing Matters]

Why would the identify of the informant(me) hinder the ability of the IRS to pursue the matter as long as the information I provide them is correct and can lead to the recovery of the funds?

Because if the IRS needs to use those documents in court it will need to show how the documents were obtained, and that would mean testimony from you to explain that. It may be that the IRS can use what is anonymously and succeed in at least getting a tax adjustment. But it can cause problems in some cases if the person who is providing the information is not known. Again, it is a particular problem in some instances if the IRS needs to go to court. The specific details of the information provided matters a great deal, of course.

 

[Zigner]

Why would the identify of the informant(me) hinder the ability of the IRS to pursue the matter as long as the information I provide them is correct and can lead to the recovery of the funds?

The IRS could also ask question and get answers via the lawyer/accountant representative. I think the documents will speak for themselves.

Are you trying to get a reward?

 

[NetgearRouterGuy]

Are you trying to get a reward?

Of course but I am also trying not to be sued or retaliated against for being a whistleblower especially in the event that the IRS does not want to go after the unpaid tax money.

 

[quincy]

Of course but I am also trying not to be sued or retaliated against for being a whistleblower especially in the event that the IRS does not want to go after the unpaid tax money.

Reports made in good faith are fairly well insulated from lawsuits and retaliation, whether an investigation finds the report has merit or not.

But nothing can prevent the person/entity you report from pursuing a legal action against you anyway.

 

[Just Blue]

https://www.irs.gov/compliance/whistleblower-informant-award

 

[Just Blue]

Of course but I am also trying not to be sued or retaliated against for being a whistleblower especially in the event that the IRS does not want to go after the unpaid tax money.

Who is it you think needs reporting? An Ex? Employer?

 

[Taxing Matters]

Of course but I am also trying not to be sued or retaliated against for being a whistleblower especially in the event that the IRS does not want to go after the unpaid tax money.

Then see the IRS page on Confidentiality and Disclosure for Whistleblowers. Note that depending on the circumstances you may be legally protected from retaliation.

 

[quincy]

The reports are covered by a qualified privilege. It is only when this privilege is not exercised properly that there can be a good basis for a lawsuit.