THE RIGHT TO REPRESENTATION
If I have a problem with the IRS, do I have to deal with it by myself?

No. 

The Taxpayer Bill of Rights #9 says you have the right to retain representation.

Taxpayers have the right to retain an authorized representative of their choice to represent them in their dealings with the IRS.
  • Taxpayers who are heading to an interview with the IRS may select someone to represent them.
  • Taxpayers who retain representation don’t have to attend with their representative, unless the IRS formally summons them to appear.
  • In most situations, the IRS must suspend an interview if the taxpayer requests to consult with a representative, such as an attorney, certified public accountant or enrolled agent.
  • Any attorney, CPA, enrolled agent, enrolled actuary or other person permitted to represent a taxpayer before the IRS, who’s not disbarred or suspended from practice before the IRS, may submit a written power of attorney to represent a taxpayer before the IRS.
  • Taxpayers have the right to seek assistance from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic if they cannot afford representation.
  • Taxpayers with  income below a certain level may ask a Low Income Tax Clinic to represent them in their tax dispute before the IRS or a federal court. Help from an LITC can be free or for a minimal fee. Many LITCs offer services in languages other than English. Although LITCs receive partial funding from the IRS, they and their employees and volunteers are completely independent of the IRS.
IRS Resources: