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How-to · Benefits & money

Ask the Taxpayer Advocate Service for help with an IRS problem

The Taxpayer Advocate Service may help with financial hardship or an IRS problem that ordinary IRS channels have not resolved.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Check whether TAS can helpUse the TAS Qualifier Tool to check whether your problem fits its case criteria.
  2. Request assistanceComplete Form 911 using the published submission instructions, or call 877-777-4778 to speak with TAS.
  3. Watch for the responseIf your case is accepted, a case advocate will contact you. TAS does not reply by email to emailed Form 911 requests.
Form 911 email submissions and attachments are not encrypted. Use the published mail or fax alternatives if you prefer.
  • How-to

    Apply for a VA burial allowance and transport refund

    Benefits & money
    1. Check that you qualifyYou must be paying the costs with no other reimbursement, and meet the relationship and Veteran requirements.
    2. Check the filing deadlineIf the death was not service connected, file within 2 years of burial unless an exception applies.
    3. Gather your documentsYou may need the death certificate and, if you paid for transport, an itemized receipt.
    + 2 more steps in the full guide
    BringVeteran's death certificateItemized transport receipt, if you paidVeteran's DD214 (recommended)
    U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
  • How-to

    Apply for Social Security disability (SSDI)

    Benefits & money
    1. Print the checklistThe Adult Disability Checklist helps you gather what the application asks for.
    2. Complete the applicationApply online at any time. No office visit or appointment needed.
    3. Fill out the medical releaseThe Medical Release Form is part of applying online.
    + 1 more step in the full guide
    BringDoctors, clinics and treatment datesYour medicines and who prescribed themUp to 5 jobs from the 5 years before you stopped workingBirth certificate or proof of birthLast year's W-2 or tax return
    Social Security Administration
  • How-to

    Apply for Social Security survivor benefits

    Benefits & money
    1. Call or visit Social SecurityYou can't apply online. Call 1-800-772-1213 or contact your local office.
    2. Call on a weekdayMonday–Friday, 8 a.m.–7 p.m. local time.
    3. Ask about the $255 paymentApply for the one-time payment within 2 years of the death.
    Social Security Administration1-800-772-1213