Owing taxes to the IRS often leads to fines, penalties, and, in some cases, financial audits. It may also affect your credit score and damage your business reputation. Fortunately, the IRS provides various programs to help taxpayers repay what they owe.
One popular and convenient tax relief program with negotiable terms is an installment agreement. Applying and qualifying for this plan is an effective way to avoid debt accumulation and clear the entire amount over some time.
When applying for tax relief, it is crucial to determine how to negotiate with the IRS. Here, we discuss the installment agreement options available and their requirements. We will also explain how to confirm if you qualify and mention the methods you can use to boost the chances of qualifying.
Installment Agreements You Can Negotiate With the IRS
The IRS provides several installment payment agreements for different categories of debt. Each of these has specific aspects that you must meet to qualify. The first and most common one is guaranteed installment, available to those who owe income tax equal to or less than $10,000.
Another option is the streamlined agreement used to clear debts of up to $50,000. If you qualify for this category, you have to repay back taxes in 72 months.
The IRS also provides a partial payment installment agreement for those who cannot afford the minimum repayment amounts for the other packages.
Negotiating Payment Installment Agreements With the IRS
Before contacting the IRS, you should first understand the requirements for each installment agreement plan. This way, you can prepare the needed documents and set up costs for negotiation.
To qualify for guaranteed installment, you must not have any tax debt for the last five years. Besides, you should prove that you cannot pay the entire amount at once.
If the IRS accepts your application, you will have a maximum of three years to clear the debt. Moreover, they will require a setup fee of $31 when you make a direct debit agreement through OPA(Online Payment Agreements). You must also pay an additional $149 for OPA. If you don't use this tool for the application, the fees will increase to $107 and $225, respectively.
When applying for a partial installment agreement, you should be able to prove that you cannot pay the debt in full. Further, you need to clear any past tax or fine and ascertain you are not bankrupt. The IRS will require fees similar to those charged for the guaranteed installment option to set up this plan.
If you are interested in the streamlined installment agreement, you must have a total tax debt, including penalties of less than $50,000. Unlike in other relief programs, the IRS does not require you to provide any verification of your assets during the negotiation process.
You will pay $105 to create a new agreement and $45 to reinstate an existing one when setting up this plan. But, if you use a direct debit agreement, the IRS will charge you $52.
Tips for Negotiating a Payment Installment Agreement
Understanding how to apply and negotiate for tax relief can increase the chances of qualifying. If you have an online payment agreement, use it to set an installment payment plan. Alternatively, apply by mail by printing out form 9465 and filling in all the needed details.
In the application, mention how much you can repay each month. However, ensure that the amount you state will allow you to clear the balance within the provided period. Other items to include are:
- Payment date
- Any needed documents
- A cheque for your set up fee
Since selecting the right payment installment plan and negotiating with the IRS may be challenging, it is advisable to contact a tax liability expert. This will guide you in the entire process and help you pick the most convenient plan for you.
Contact Tax Industry to Negotiate an Installment Agreement
Getting professional help when negotiating for debt relief with the IRS can increase the chances of qualifying. At Tax Industry, we offer reliable tax resolution services. Our experts can help you work out the right installment agreement plan to avoid debt accumulation and penalties. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation.
Author Profile
- FinishLine Tax Solutions is a full-service, fully accredited tax resolution firm in Houston, TX, assisting companies and individuals nationwide in resolving tax problems with the IRS. We specialize in areas of back taxes such as IRS wage garnishments, IRS bank levies, and unfiled tax returns. Our team of experts comprised of licensed Enrolled Agents, CPAs, & IRS Tax Attorneys can assist you with IRS Audit Representation and Tax Planning. We are one of the leading tax resolution firms in the nation and your go-to tax relief firm that can take you to the Finish Line. Call us today to learn more about our tax relief process and tax resolution services.
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