In 2003, the IRS audited my ex-spouse and I for the years of 2001 and 2002.

We were divorced 11/20/2002. I filed with him jointly in 2002 as there was domestic assault issues and it was in my best interest to stay alive and healthy. He had threatened to kill me and our son numerous times.

I filed 10/25/2004 an Innocent Spouse and they lost the forms and letters that I had. Like an idiot I sent originals. I resent the form but did not have the letters in time. Anyway all time frames are expired for filing any appeals etc. I even asked for the taxes to be split with regards to liability.

I wasted (so I feel) $500.00 on an attorney to get at least a split of liability and got nowhere very fast.

Now what do I do? How can I pay off or begin making payments on this darn thing and make him (the ex) pay his share. I can afford to pay $300 per month. The bill is $9500.00
It started at about half that.

The attorney had suggested getting a joint loan with my ex and have the bank or loan officer set it up where the two of us only pay our half and not responsible for the other half.

I really want nothing to do with this man. I have letters from 3 different people that can attest to the abuse. My sons are willing to write a letter regards to the abuse that they endured. What can I do? I reside in MN and only make $11.00 an hour/ work only 30 hours a week and have a 1994 Mazda in my name.

Thank you for any advise.

I suggest you find a local enrolled agent to represent you before the IRS.

A competent EA should be able to at least get the penalties reduced or waived so that all you have to pay is the actual tax.

He/she MAY also be able to re-submit the Innocent Spouse forms, though I am not sure about that.

You can look up a listing of local enrolled agents on the Internet.

I would offer to represent you, but since I did not prepare the returns in question, I cannot legally represent you.

You may also want to give a bankruptcy lawyer a call to see if these taxes can be relieved via a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.