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# Free tax help for small businesses
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/free-tax-help-for-small-businesses/
- Published: 2004-02-16T16:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-23T03:48:37.000Z
- Author: Guest Author
- Tags: Business, Santa Monica, #archive-import

*By Daily Press staff*

Small businesses with unresolved federal tax problems might be eligible for free assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service, an independent branch within the Internal Revenue Service that represents the interests of taxpayers.

“Small business owners should know we stand ready to assist them when they have lingering tax issues. TAS is a resource for business taxpayers who need help resolving tough tax problems,” said national taxpayer advocate Nina Olson.

TAS will assign knowledgeable advocates to help qualified small businesses navigate the federal tax system, understand what is causing their unresolved tax problems, and reach closure with the IRS.

“We have 40 TAS employees locally who are available to help small businesses in Los Angeles County,” said IRS spokesman Victor Omelczenko. “Last year, these employees processed more than 2,400 new cases initiated by individuals and small businesses.”

Payroll tax issues are among the most common tax problems faced by small businesses and can be especially challenging because of the potential for stiff penalties.

TAS recognizes the hardship that tax problems impose on a small business, and small business owners with unresolved payroll and other tax issues should not wait too long before seeking help, officials say.

Small businesses might be eligible for assistance from TAS if they have tried other channels to resolve their tax issues and still face: ■ Economic hardships or significant cost due to their tax problem ■ A 30-day delay to resolve the issue ■ A response or resolution deadline that was promised by the IRS but not met. Last year TAS’ 2,200 employees nationwide processed more than 225,000 new cases initiated by individuals and small businesses. In addition, TAS recommends changes to improve the federal tax system and ensure problems do not resurface.

Small businesses can call toll free 1-877-ASK-TAS1 to request the assistance of a taxpayer advocate. They also can talk to their tax preparers about contacting TAS.

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on February 16, 2004.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/021604.pdf?ref=smdp.com)