[stomachmonkey]

Sounds like in the first case you are whole.

Meaning if the gross was recoverable you would be out the taxes paid but since it's net there is no loss to you therefore nothing to recoup.

Still something to look at if the relo money caused a significant increase in your marginal rate for that period. But I suspect if that were the case we are not talking a huge some of money.

In the second case did the signing bonus money come within the current filing year or was it last years? If within the current year not a big deal, it comes off your total taxable income when you file and should wash. If last years filing talk to a tax expert.

My general rule of thumb is to not deal with the IRS whenever possible. In other words is the amount of money worth the additional scrutiny your return may receive and the possibility they find something else, especially since you seem to question your tax guys expertise.