Under what circumstances could the court order someone to turn over tax records?

Question

I am involved in a lawsuit with someone that requires ongoing payments

I am worried that someday they will want to see my tax returns. Is a difficult expensive process to get them?

Answer 1

The IRS will provide short form tax returns up to a certain year, free of charge.  If you require a full copy of your previously filed tax returns then, yes it could be very costly.  The IRS charges a fee per tax return.  I am not certain what the current fee is, but a few years back the fee was around $5 - $10 per tax return.  With the ever growing inflation and such, I am sure the fee per tax return has risen from the prices I have quoted you.

You can visit their website at www.irs.gov.  You may not find this information on their website, you may have to call the 800 number.

Best wishes.

Answer 2

Your attorney should advise you on this matter.

Another party in a lawsuit may want the information in your tax records and may, under the law, have a right to that information.  Your attorney will know how the law would apply to your particular situation and to this case.