- 21 - of $150,000. Petitioner could have used, but did not, these resources to pay the liabilities. Moreover, we note that, had Mr. George paid the joint liabilities during his lifetime, the funds petitioner received from Mr. George at his death would have been reduced by those payments. Consequently, petitioner received a significant benefit beyond normal support. The lack of economic hardship negative factor weighs against relief. As noted above, we do not believe that petitioner will experience economic hardship if relief is not granted. The tax law noncompliance negative factor weighs against relief. The record indicates that petitioner had not filed tax returns for 2000 or 2001 as of April 20, 2002. The requesting spouse’s legal obligation negative factor does not weigh against relief. As noted above, petitioner did not enter an agreement with Mr. George with regard to payment of the liability. Taking into account all the facts and circumstances, we conclude that it would not be inequitable to hold petitioner liable for the unpaid liability. Petitioner has not carried her burden to establish that respondent’s denial of equitable relief pursuant to section 6015(f) was an abuse of discretion.10 We have considered all of petitioner’s arguments and contentions 10That the facts of the instant case were fully stipulated does not relieve petitioner of the burden of proof. Rule 149(b).Page: Previous 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Next
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