Overview
Financial abuse occurs in 99% of abusive relationships and is the number one reason why victims stay in or return to abusive relationships, according to the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV). This abuse can leave domestic violence survivors facing unexpected tax debts or other tax issues. To help in these cases, PCADV and the Department of Revenue’s Office of the Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate (OTRA) work together to help survivors get the support they need. We may be able to help if a domestic violence survivor is encountering any of the following situations:
- Owing state taxes from a return filed jointly with an abusive partner
- Someone filed taxes in their name without their permission
- Receiving collection letters regarding a tax liability that they know nothing about
- Having trouble getting tax refunds or credits because of moving or separating for safety reasons
Tax Relief Options for Survivors Through OTRA
The Department of Revenue offers safe, confidential assistance through the Office of the Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate. If a domestic violence survivor is dealing with state tax issues tied to a former partner, the Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate can step in to help the survivor navigate the system fairly.
Contact Us:
Pennsylvania Department of Revenue
Office of Taxpayers' Rights Advocate
Lobby, Strawberry Square
Harrisburg, PA 17128-0101
Phone: (717) 772-9347
Fax: (717) 787-8264
Need Help?
The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV) offers comprehensive support to survivors of domestic abuse by connecting them with local advocates, emergency shelters, and essential resources. Through its statewide network, PCADV can help individuals access financial support and secure free or low-cost legal representation. These legal professionals can help gather documentation for Innocent Spouse Relief and guide survivors through the OTRA process with safety, confidentiality, and care.
Additionally, Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs), partially funded by the Department of Revenue, provide free or low-cost legal representation and tax assistance to eligible Pennsylvanians, including domestic violence survivors. Staffed by attorneys, accountants, tax professionals, and law students, they often work with the Pennsylvania Office of Taxpayers’ Rights Advocate (OTRA) on state tax issues.
The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV) and the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue (DOR) are working together to make sure survivors of domestic violence have access to the resources they need. We believe you deserve safety, dignity, and a fresh start, free from financial abuse.