IRS Tax Tip 2025-34, May 30, 2025
Mediation – also known as alternative dispute resolution – can help taxpayers resolve tax issues early and efficiently.
The process provides taxpayers a faster, more collaborative and cost-effective approach to case resolution. The traditional appeal process is still available for taxpayers who choose it.
Mediation might be right for a taxpayer if:
- The taxpayer wants to resolve the dispute at the earliest possible stage of their audit.
 - The taxpayer doesn’t have many disputed issues.
 - The taxpayer gave the IRS information to support their position.
 - The IRS is still considering the taxpayer’s case and issues remain unresolved.
 
Mediation is:
- Voluntary for both parties.
 - Nonbinding, meaning each party retains 100% control over whether to settle the case. No one can force either party to do something they don’t agree to do.
 - Effective when both parties have a desire to resolve the disputed issue.
 - A chance to avoid a lengthy appeal process or costly litigation.
 
Mediation is not:
- Required by either party.
 - A replacement for the audit or collection process.
 - A process in which the parties in the dispute offer arguments directly to the mediator hoping to “win.”
 - Effective if either party believes the only way the dispute will get resolved is if the other party concedes or gives up on its position.
 - A time to present new information or raise new issues.
 - An opportunity to try and get a more favorable outcome or delay the examination or collection process.
 
Primary alternative dispute resolution programs:
- Fast track settlement – when the parties can choose to seek mediation for unresolved issues in the examination process.
 - Post Appeals mediation – when the parties can seek mediation for unresolved issues remaining at the conclusion of a traditional appeal.
 
Mediation works best if taxpayers prepare for success. Find out what to expect from the Independent Office of Appeals.