Understanding the IRS Hardship Program: A Lifeline for Taxpayers in Distress (H1)

irs fresh start program

Are you overwhelmed by mounting tax debt due to back taxes and feeling like there is no escape? You are far from alone. Many Americans are burdened by similar financial challenges. Fortunately, there is a glimmer of hope: the IRS Hardship Program, also known as the "Currently Not Collectible" status. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the IRS Hardship Program, its eligibility criteria, and how Finishline Tax Solutions can guide you through this and other tax relief options.

What is the IRS Hardship Program?

The IRS Hardship Program is a federal initiative designed to assist taxpayers who are unable to fulfill their tax obligations due to financial hardship. Under this program, the IRS temporarily ceases its collection activities, allowing you some much-needed breathing room.

Benefits of the IRS Hardship Program

  • Temporary Relief: The program halts IRS collection activities for a designated period, giving you time to improve your financial situation.
  • No Liens or Levies: While under this program, your assets are safe from being seized by the IRS.
  • Flexible Terms: The IRS reviews your status periodically, and the program's terms can be adjusted based on changes in your financial condition.

Who Qualifies for the IRS Hardship Program?

Eligibility for the IRS Hardship Program is determined through a meticulous financial analysis. The IRS evaluates numerous factors such as your income, essential living expenses, and the equity in your assets to ascertain whether paying your tax debt would lead to significant financial hardship.

Key Qualification Criteria

  • Limited Income: Your income barely covers or falls short of essential living expenses.
  • No Asset Liquidity: You have limited ability to liquidate assets without causing financial distress.
  • Financial Documentation: Proof of income, expenses, and assets is required for a comprehensive evaluation.

How to Apply for the IRS Hardship Program

Applying for the IRS Hardship Program involves several steps:

  1. Gather Financial Documents: Compile all relevant financial records, such as bank statements, pay stubs, and bills.
  2. Fill Out IRS Forms: Complete the necessary IRS forms, typically Form 433-A for individuals or Form 433-F for businesses.
  3. Submit Application: Mail the completed forms along with any supporting documentation to the IRS.
  4. Wait for Approval: The IRS will review your application and inform you of their decision, which could take several weeks.

The Complexities of the Application Process

While the application process may seem straightforward, it can be fraught with complexities. A single mistake on your application can result in a denial, adding more stress to an already challenging situation. This is where professional assistance becomes invaluable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Incomplete Documentation: Missing out on any crucial financial documents can lead to an automatic rejection.
  • Incorrect Information: Providing incorrect or misleading information can not only result in denial but also potential legal consequences.
  • Failure to Follow Up: Once the application is submitted, it is crucial to follow up with the IRS regularly to check the status of your application.

Why Choose Finishline Tax Solutions?

Navigating the maze of tax relief options can be daunting. That is where Finishline Tax Solutions comes into play.

Benefits of Hiring Finishline Tax Solutions

  • Expert Guidance: Our team of tax professionals has years of experience in dealing with the IRS and understands the intricacies of tax laws.
  • Custom Solutions: We offer tailored services to meet your unique financial needs and challenges.
  • Nationwide Reputation: We are trusted by clients across the United States for our exceptional services and successful outcomes.

Customer Experience

"Finishline Tax Solutions turned my life around. Their team was not only professional but also incredibly compassionate. They are the real deal!"
— Sarah M., New York

The Importance of Professional Assistance

While it is possible to navigate the IRS Hardship Program on your own, the process is complex and time-consuming. Professional assistance can provide you with the expertise and peace of mind you need.

Why Professional Help Matters

  • Efficiency: A tax professional can expedite the application process, saving you time and effort.
  • Higher Success Rate: With expert guidance, your chances of approval are significantly higher.
  • Long-term Strategy: A tax professional can help you develop a long-term strategy for managing your tax obligations, beyond just immediate relief.

Takeaways

  • The IRS Hardship Program offers a temporary respite from the burden of tax debt.
  • Qualification is based on a thorough financial analysis conducted by the IRS.
  • Professional assistance from Finishline Tax Solutions can simplify the application process and significantly enhance your chances of approval.

By gaining a thorough understanding of the IRS Hardship Program and other tax relief options, you can take proactive steps towards financial stability. With Finishline Tax Solutions as your ally, you are never alone on this challenging journey. Contact us today to discover how we can help you cross the finish line to financial freedom.

IRS Recommends Taxpayers Wait Before Filing Returns Due to Refund Confusion

The Internal Revenue Service has advised millions of taxpayers who have benefited from state rebate and refund payment programs to currently hold off from filing their income tax return while the agency decides on how to treat such receipts.

“There are a variety of state programs that distributed these payments in 2022 and the rules surrounding them are complex. We expect to provide additional clarity for as many states and taxpayers as possible next week. For taxpayers uncertain about the taxability of their state payments, the IRS recommends they wait until additional guidance is available or consult with a reputable tax professional,” the agency said in a statement on Feb. 3.

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Tax Relief Solutions: Consult with a Tax Relief Expert before 2023 Tax Season

Tax Resolution

The IRS has several policies to help taxpayers and businesses lower their tax burdens and solve tax-related issues. However, identifying the laws and changes applicable to you may be challenging.

A tax relief expert can help you navigate these policies to avoid costly mistakes. By consulting them before the 2023 tax season, you will maximize deductions.

Ways a Tax Relief Expert Can Assist

The high inflation experienced in 2022 influenced the IRS to change tax brackets for joint and single filers. This means that you will likely pay a lower or the same amount of tax even if your income increases slightly. A tax relief expert can help you determine the amount you owe based on the new tax brackets. Further, they will calculate the credit you qualify for to lower your tax burden.

Each state has different laws on inheritance and estate tax. For example, Texas does not charge inheritance tax, but you will incur federal estate taxes. However, you will only have this obligation if the inherited property exceeds a particular value.

Tax relief experts understand estate and inheritance tax laws. With their help, you can determine if you qualify for an exemption and present the needed documents.

Other ways an expert can assist before the 2023 tax season are:

  • Identifying itemized tax deductions you qualify for
  • Filing a tax appeal
  • Disputing a tax refund
  • Filing back taxes
  • Filing your 2022 taxes

If you owe the IRS, you need to repay to avoid penalties and fines. Consulting a tax relief expert allows you to verify if the amount listed in your notice is correct. The professional can also help you apply for an installment program if you cannot repay the debt in one payment.

Consulting an expert on tax debt will ultimately lower the risk of wage garnishment and liens. Besides, you may stop the IRS from seizing your assets.

How to Find a Good Tax Relief Expert

Tax consultants have varying qualifications and specialties. It is crucial to research when looking for a professional before the 2023 tax season. This way, you can get value for your money and avoid common tax mistakes.

One way to find a good tax relief expert in your area is by asking for referrals. These can come from family, friends, and local social media groups.  When you consult someone who has helped a loved one before, you can feel confident with their guidance.

Other tips for finding a good tax relief expert are:

  • Read online reviews
  • Ensure the tax resolution firm has a proven track record
  • Look for a CPA with enough tax education
  • Verify certifications

Proper communication is vital when dealing with a tax resolution expert. When looking for someone to consult before the 2023 tax season, ensure they have reliable written and verbal communication. The expert should also explain the current tax laws in a way you can understand.

Tax Relief Services You Can Get At FinishLine Tax Solutions

FinishLine Tax Solutions specializes in national tax relief and resolution. We have a team of CPAs and attorneys who can help you navigate different policies and repay taxes. Some of the offered services are:

Another service offered by FinishLine Tax Solutions is business tax preparation. Our experts can also help you apply for a Fast Track Settlement (FTS). This program speeds up tax dispute resolution using alternative methods.

Contact FinishLine Tax Solutions to Talk to an Expert

Navigating the 2023 tax season does not have to be complicated and frustrating. FinishLine Tax Solutions offers the resources and guidance required to understand tax laws. Consulting us allows you to maximize deductions and evade penalties. Contact us now for help with your tax situation.

IRS issued an alert to tax payer to adjust 2023 withholding

IRS starts accepting 2022 taxes starting from today Jan 23, 2023. At the same time, IRS is reminding tax payers to revisit their withholding from their paycheck towards 2023 taxes. If you are not withholding enough taxes, you are at the risk of paying penalties when you file 2023 taxes. If you are withholding more than what your obligation is, you are effectively giving the government an interest-free loan.

There are resources for you to determine the close to the right amount of taxes you will owe to the IRS.

Tax Withholding Estimator, this tool calculates the taxes owed based on the tax codes for 2023 and help taxpayers determine if they have to make any adjustments to their withholding in order to avoid owing taxes and potentially end up paying penalties for insufficient withholding when they file taxes the following year.

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How Looming Recession May Affect Tax Collections

The Fed is raising rates. Prices for food and fuel are skyrocketing. Signs are pointing to a recession on the horizon. And as we near the end of 2022, tax time—that time of year everyone looks forward to (sarcasm)—is also on the horizon.

As a business leader, it's important to be proactive and recognize your limitations. Don’t try to fool the IRS and cut corners because it never turns out well.. Scott Curley, o-CEO of FinishLine Tax Solutions outlines how a recession would impact taxpayers and how the IRS will be responding to them.

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Top 5 Best IRS Tax Relief Programs You Need to Know About for 2021

Top 5 Best IRS Tax Relief Programs You Need to Know About for 2021 - FLTS

Have you finished preparing your tax returns and found that you still owe some taxes that you didn’t know about? No need to panic.

It isn’t uncommon to find that you have some outstanding taxes when you prepare your tax returns. Luckily, the IRS offers several tax relief options to assist taxpayers to meet their obligations in a way that doesn’t cripple their financial health. Instead of ignoring your tax bill, take advantage of these legal tax relief programs to gain some reprieve and pay with a plan that suits your financial ability. 

Installment Agreements

Installment Agreements are the most common tax relief method for taxpayers who cannot clear their debt in full. It is available to taxpayers whose total tax liability (tax, interest and penalty) does not exceed $50,000. 

The IRS can allow you to repay the outstanding taxes in small installments for a maximum of 72 months. Note, however, that any interests and penalties will continue to accumulate on the outstanding debt, therefore you should try to shorten the repayment period

Innocent Spouse Relief

Through Innocent Spouse Relief, the IRS allows innocent spouses to avoid tax, interest and penalties that arise from a current or former spouse’s tax delinquency (underreporting, fraud, or nonpayment). 

Innocent Spouse Relief can only be requested when filing individual or self-employment tax returns. However, there are tax liabilities that are ineligible for cancellation under this program, such as business taxes, trust fund recovery penalties, Individual Shared Responsibility payments, and Household Employment taxes.

Offer in Compromise (OIC)

The Offer in Compromise is a tax relief option where a taxpayer pays less than the amount that they owe. Usually, the IRS will accept an Offer In Compromise when they assess the applicant’s tax liability and their present and future (potential) income earning capacity.  

To qualify for OIC, you should make the application to the IRS explaining their circumstances and give them your best offer to settle the debt. The IRS only accepts about 25 of all applications, which is why it is critical to use a qualified tax relief professional when making your application. 

If you succeed, you should pay your offer amount in five instalments or less. You may be able to appeal the decision if your OIC application is rejected. 

Advance Child Tax Credit (ACTC)

This is a tax relief program that the IRS offers to families. Many families will receive Advance Child Tax Credit payments up to 50 percent of the estimated ACTC amount (according to their 2019/2020 tax returns). 

Once the IRS processes your 2020 returns, you will receive 50 percent of this credit and from July to December 2021. The remaining half will be paid once your file your 2021 returns. You can learn more about this tax relief program by clicking here.

ACTC payments from the IRS will be paid by direct deposits to make the money easily accessible to the beneficiaries. You should ensure that you provide your correct banking information. Otherwise, the IRS will send checks in the mail beginning July 15 and every 15th of the month after that. 

The Coronavirus Economic Impact Payments

The IRS is also sending out the third round of Economic Impact Payment to the eligible individuals. Some people have already received their payments, but if you haven’t, it doesn’t mean you won’t get it. 

Additionally, the IRS is offering a 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit for those who didn’t get their first or second Economic Impact Payment or those who got less than the full amount. Those who are eligible to receive the payment but don’t usually fill tax returns can use the Non-Filer Sign-Up tool to register. 

Get Help for All Your Tax Concerns

Do you need help filing your 2020 tax returns? Contact our professionals at Finishline Tax Solutions for tailored solutions according to your needs. 

Have an outstanding tax liability? Contact us and let’s help to determine the tax relief program that works best for your needs. 

Tax Relief Services During Coronavirus

Getting tax relief services during a global pandemic can help. Fortunately, there's help with FinishLine Tax Solutions. If you owe back taxes and can't afford to pay them back, find a tax relief services professional. Dealing with back taxes can be hard, but it's especially hard during a global pandemic. Fortunately, the federal government continues to provide tax relief options for taxpayers seeking relief during the coronavirus. Even outside of a global pandemic, there are tax relief services available to taxpayers who owe more than they can pay. We'll share the various tax relief options that are available to you. Additionally, we'll touch on tax relief options that are available as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What are tax relief services?

First, we want to tell you exactly what tax relief services are. If you owe more in taxes than you can pay, you may be eligible for tax relief services. But, the program you qualify for will depend on how much you owe. In other words, those owning more than $50,000 will be eligible for a different program than those owning $10,000. Fortunately, there are several tax relief programs available. Additionally, in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has offered even more tax relief programs.

How do tax relief services work?

Tax relief services are available to taxpayers when they owe more than they can pay. The IRS has several tax relief services that can help taxpayers in need. Enrolling in a tax relief plan enables you to break down your tax debt into payments. Similarly, there are relief programs that can reduce the amount of tax you have to pay to the government. Tax relief services will not clear out your entire tax bill. But it can save you a lot of money in the long run. Additionally, it can make paying what you owe the government a lot more manageable.

What is tax relief?

Tax relief is when you set up a payment plan or negotiate a settlement with the IRS. However, keep in mind that tax relief isn't about totally erasing your tax obligation. Instead, it makes it easier for you to pay back your tax debt. In some cases, you may be eligible for special tax relief options. For instance, if you've been involved in a natural disaster, you may be eligible for special tax relief programs. Additionally, there are special tax relief programs available in light of COVID-19, which we will discuss later.

What are my tax relief services options?

Depending on your tax situation, there are multiple options for tax relief services. Here are a few programs to consider. We will discuss these more in-depth further below.

  • Installment Agreement: This program allows you to pay back your debt in installments. In other words, you can pay down your debt in smaller payments. There are long-term and short-term Installment Agreement programs. Available.
  • Offer in Compromise: If your debt is more than you can handle, you may be eligible for an Offer in Compromise. Your eligibility for an Offer in Compromise will depend on a few things. In other words, the IRS will first consider your ability to pay, income, expenses, and assets first.
  • Penalty Abatement: When you owe tax debt, penalties can also add up. Fortunately, there are tax relief services that may help. In this case, the IRS forgives the penalties on your tax bill.

What is an Installment Agreement?

Another way to think of an Installment Agreement is a payment plan. In other words, you arrange with the IRS to pay back your tax debt in monthly installments. There are long-term payment plans and there are short-term payment plans.

  • A short-term payment plan is for those who owe a maximum of $100,000. This maximum amount includes taxes, penalties, and interest.
  • Long-term payment plans are for those who owe a maximum of $50,000. This maximum amount includes taxes, penalties, and interest.

An Installment Agreement can be a helpful tax relief plan for taxpayers. It enables you to negotiate an affordable monthly payment plan with the IRS. However, negotiating your monthly payment is a very important step. In other words, you'll want to work with a tax relief specialist on negotiating. A tax relief specialist can help you ensure you get an affordable monthly payment amount.

Offer in Compromise

An Offer in Compromise program can be a beneficial tax relief program. With an Offer in Compromise, you can often settle your tax debt for much less. In other words, the IRS will reduce some of your overall tax debt. But, it's important to note that not everyone will get approved for an Offer in Compromise. The IRS will require financial proof that you are unable to pay back your tax debt in full. In this case, a tax relief professional can help you negotiate your total settlement amount. For example, you don't want to come up with a number that's too low. In other words, you can run the risk of having the IRS deny your Offer in Compromise agreement amount if it's too low. Therefore, working with a tax relief professional can help you get the best deal.

Penalty Abatement

Another tax relief service is penalty abatement. In this case, you can get the IRS to release the penalties you have on your tax debt. However, it's important to note that a penalty abatement will not totally reduce your tax debt. In other words, you will still owe taxes with a penalty abatement. However, it's a tax relief program that can greatly reduce your overall tax debt.

Tax Relief for COVID-19 Pandemic

In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has announced several tax relief services. First, taxpayers now have until July 15 to file and pay back their taxes. This date was extended from the original tax deadline of April 15. However, it's not advisable to delay paying or filing taxes. Work with a tax relief specialist to pay back any debt you cannot afford to pay at once. In addition, the federal government has offered a federal stimulus check available to the majority of taxpayers. The stimulus check amount starts at $1,200 and decreases based on your total earnings. Furthermore, the IRS is making it possible to borrow up to $100,000 from your IRA. In addition, the federal government will allow you three years to pay this back. Furthermore, you get three years to pay off tax debt without consequences.

Need Tax Relief Services?

During these uncertain times, tax debt relief services can be of the utmost importance. If you have tax debt that you can't pay back, don't hesitate to call us. We can help you with tax relief options and more. Call FinishLine Tax Solutions for a free consultation at 855-950-2720.

IRS Payment Plans Pros and Cons

IRS PAYMENT PLANS PROS AND CONS

Failing to pay back taxes can result in IRS audits, interests and penalties on back taxes, IRS wage garnishments and many more tax debt issues. But, the good news is that you have different options for dealing with your back taxes and tax debt, one of which is the IRS Payment plans. If you are unable to pay the owed tax amount, you have the option to apply for the IRS payment plan. A reputable tax relief company can help you setup IRS payment plans.


IRS payment plan is an agreement between the IRS and the taxpayers that allows you to pay the federal tax bill in monthly payments over a certain period of time. But, is it the right option for you? To determine this, you need to know about the Pros and Cons of IRS payment plans:


Pros of Signing Up for IRS Payment Plans


If you are going through financial hardships, you need to be honest with the IRS. You don’t have to panic. Pay what you can, file the returns by the deadline, and contact the federal agency for discussing the IRS payment plan. Here are the benefits of this route:


1. You might get an extension


If you don’t owe a lot of amounts and are sure that you can pay the taxes soon, the IRS can offer you a short-term extension. With this extension, you won’t have to worry about paying your taxes by the April deadline. Also, you will be able to avoid interest and some penalties. This way, you won’t have to take out a loan or put your taxes on a credit card. You will have enough time for paying back the owed amount.


2. The penalties might be waived


In some cases, the IRS might agree to waive the failure-to-pay penalties. However, the interest charges will remain as it is. You can still save a lot of money on the tax bill by getting rid of the penalties.


3. You will know exactly what you owe while setting up an IRS payment plan


When you are in an IRS payment plan, the IRS will tell you exactly what you owe and when it is due. If you sign up for direct debit, making the payments will be very easy. What you need to do is make the right budget. This way paying back the debt doesn’t put you in a financial crisis.


4. You might get an Offer in Compromise


If you are not able to pay your taxes because you have a low income, the IRS might offer you an offer in compromise to forgive your debt. This is a tax resolution option that allows you to pay less than what you owe. However, this option is available only to the people who are facing genuine financial hardship. When you apply for an offer in compromise, the IRS checks your expenses, income, ability to pay, assets, etc. You have to make a reasonable offer which is equal to or more than what the IRS expects to get back over a certain period of time. Only then, the IRS will agree to it.


However, before you apply for the OIC, you have to try an IRS payment plan first. To check if you are eligible, you can check the Offer in Compromise Pre-qualifier tool provided by the IRS. You will have to submit a non-refundable fee of $186. After that, you will have the option to either make periodic payments or make a lump sum payment. Taxpayers who meet the guidelines of the low-income certification don’t have to pay the initial payment of the application fee. While the IRS is evaluating the offer, you don’t have to pay the monthly payments anymore.



Cons of IRS Payment Plans


There are several cons of the IRS payment plans as well.


1. Back taxes Interest and penalties 


Even with the IRS payment plan, the additional penalties and interest will be applied for each month until you pay off the complete debt. This means that ultimately, you will end up paying more than the actual owed amount by the time you finish making your monthly payments.


2. The IRS might still file a tax lien against you


If the IRS has a tax lien against you and you are not able to pay back your taxes, it gives them the right of seizing your property. The IRS will serve you a notice of lien. The notice will state that if you don't make immediate payments, the IRS will seize your assets. If even after receiving the notice of lien, you are not able to pay, then your assets like your house, vehicles, etc. can be sold for satisfying the debt.

3. Paying the sign-up fees


Until and unless you can pay your tax debt in less than 120 days, there is a fee associated with signing up for the IRS payment plan. The fee amount varies for taxpayers depending on their income. For low-income applicants, it costs $43 while for regular applicants of the IRS payment plan might have to pay as much as $225.


As you can see, the worst con of having an IRS payment plan is the interest and penalties that are accrued to the owed amount. So, the most significant disadvantage of having an IRS payment plan is that they are expensive. Also, if you miss a payment, it can damage your credit. Lastly, to apply for an IRS payment plan, you must have filed all the past year’s returns.


Clearly, the pros of the IRS payment plan far outweigh the cons. It makes paying off the debt more manageable. You won’t have to pay off the whole tax debt at once and avoid any collection actions from the IRS. Whether you are an individual taxpayer or a business owner who can’t pay off their debt, signing up for an IRS payment plan is the best option for you.


So, if you are one of the millions of Americans who can’t pay their tax bill, don’t panic. And definitely don’t hide. Be upfront about your situation instead of ignoring it and hoping it goes away. The IRS payment plan is the best option for people who are behind on the current year’s taxes and can't pay it within the deadline. However, you shouldn’t rely completely on this. The best pathway for you is to hire a tax resolution service. They have tax experts who can determine the best strategy for you.


Frequently Asked Questions About IRS PAYMENTS


Once your Installment Agreement Request is accepted, the IRS will set up a payment plan, which can last up to six years. 

If you have a financial hardship and have fallen behind on your taxes, you can request full payment, a short payment plan (120 days or less), or a long term payment plan (more than 120 days). 

Yes. The IRS can refuse a payment plan if a taxpayer provides false/inaccurate information, offers a bad deal, underreports income, or makes mathematical mistakes. 

You may qualify for a long-term payment plan if you owe $50,000 or less in back taxes (including penalties and interest) and have been filing returns regularly. A taxpayer who owes less than $100,000 in combined tax, penalties, and interest may qualify for a short-term payment plan. 

If you enter into an installment agreement with the IRS and cannot pay in the future tax year, you can add the new balance to your existing agreement. 

There is no limit to the number of times you can enter into a payment plan with the IRS. 


IRS Fresh Start Program

People are usually fearful of the IRS. A letter from the IRS is enough to fill them with fear, especially if they have an unpaid tax bill. They might end up in debt to the IRS and think that there is no way out of this. Thankfully, the IRS Fresh Start Program to help the taxpayers with tax resolution. Even if you have owed a debt for years, this program can help you get the tax relief.

The IRS Fresh Start Program is a tax resolution option from the IRS. The program makes it easy for taxpayers to pay their tax debt without having a levy on their assets. This is not a new initiative. It has been in place for several years. The program started in 2008 to help the taxpayers during the recession. In 2012, thanks to the changes introduced by the IRS, it became easier for the taxpayers with financial hardship to get their tax debt reduced.

Recently, the program was expanded to help people who are struggling with their tax debt. The IRS had made changes to their tax code for alleviating tax bills and helping out the taxpayers. The aim of this program is to provide tax resolution options to taxpayers. It allows them to pay back their debt without any excess fees of liens. The IRS might even forgive a certain amount of past debts or eliminate penalties for late fees.

Eligibility criteria for the IRS Fresh Start Program

  • Owe $50,000 or less money in tax debt.
  • Self-employed individuals who had a 25% or more drop in their gross income.
  • Married couples who are filing joint-returns must have income less than $200,000 in a year. In this case, the amount earned by an individual taxpayer should be less than $100,000. 

Repayment options offered through the IRS Fresh Start Program

Extended Installment Agreement

This tax resolution option reduces the fees and penalties imposed on the taxpayers. However, this need not be confused with the regular payment option.

The regular payment option is for taxpayers who are unable to pay their tax debt before the deadline, but the extended installment agreement is for taxpayers who are unable to pay penalties and other fees associated with debt before the deadline. 

There are two forms of installment plans. 

The first one is the short-term plan that is available without any fee for late payment. Also, there won’t be any fee for setting up this installment plan. These are for a period of 120 days and have penalties associated until the complete debt is paid off.

The second form is the long-term installment plan that will include some setup fees. It will depend on whether the payment is made by the taxpayers or if it is deducted automatically for the bank account.

The Fresh Start Program offers different tax resolution payment arrangements like stair-step, partial-pay, debt installment, or streamlined installment agreement. Now even though there are arrangements available, all taxpayers have to negotiate directly with the IRS for determining whether they are eligible for this or not. Depending on this, they might have to pay a certain amount over time through monthly payments. Regardless of the plan approved by the IRS, you have to ensure that every installment is paid in full and on time. Failure to do so will nullify the arrangement. 

It is important to know that these payments are accompanied by a fee. In cases of debt of $50,000 or more, it requires taxpayers to submit Form 9465 and Form 433-F via mail or in-person.

Offer in Compromise

If you are unable to pay off your debt in full, there is an Offer in Compromise option offered by the IRS. For this, you will need the help of tax experts.  Getting the IRS to agree to let you pay a reduced amount is a tricky process and requires the help of tax experts. There are several tax resolution services that can help you negotiate with the IRS.

To get your request for an Offer in Compromise accepted, you’ll have to prove to the IRS that paying their taxes will result in financial hardship. 

To determine whether you are qualified for this tax resolution option, the IRS will be checking your current and future income and expenses. Also, the IRS will first determine if the reduced amount from the offer in compromise is more or at least equal to the amount they expect to receive from the taxpayer through the collection actions. 

Here are the three criteria that can determine your eligibility:

  1. Credibility

If the IRS thinks that they won’t be able to get any money from you through collection actions, they might accept your ‘offer in compromise’ request. If they think that you have assets that might get them a higher amount of money, they won’t accept your OIC. Please note that a levy on a lien can impact your credit score, affecting your ability to buy any assets or apply for a loan.

2. Liability and accuracy

This includes proving that you don’t owe the money the IRS is claiming. If you think that there was an error during tax preparation, IRS might agree to let go of the initial owed amount and take your offer. For this, you need to take the help of tax resolution services.

3. Effective tax administration

When the IRS believes that paying the complete amount will lead to severe financial hardship for you, they might accept your offer in compromise.

IRS very rarely accepts the Offer in Compromise. To make sure that you even have a slight chance at this tax resolution option, you need the help of tax experts. Once your offer is accepted, all the payments should be made in time. Failure to do so will nullify your OIC, and you will have to pay the complete amount.

Tax resolution is a way to make the process of paying taxes easier for people undergoing hardships. However, if you earn well and have assets, the IRS won’t be accepting your request. If you are going through a financial hardship, you need the help of tax resolution services to help you get back on your feet.

IRS audits Most common questions

No matter how honest and diligent you are, an IRS audit can send shivers down your spine. The reason for this fear is that most people believe that IRS audits will include a team of agents knocking at their front door and confiscating everything in their house. While this is also a possible situation in extreme cases, mostly, the audit will include agents checking your financial statements and ensuring that you haven’t been reporting incorrect information on your tax forms. So, unless you are over-reporting deductible expenses or reporting less income, you don’t need to worry about IRS audits.

Here are some of the most common questions asked about the IRS audits

I always make sure that my tax forms are filed without any errors? Why would the IRS still audit me?

The process of selecting a taxpayer for an IRS audit does not mean you have made an error. Many returns are randomly selected through an automated process when the 1099s and W-2s don’t match. In some cases, they are a result of an amending oversight. However, there are some red flags for the IRS. For example, large business expenses or charitable donations can raise eyebrows. 

Is the IRS audit affected by the amount I earn?

Yes, but only if you are earning is in millions. For example, if you earn more than $200,000 annually, there is a 1% probability that you will face an IRS audit. However, this probability increases when you earn more than $1 million.

Will I be notified of an IRS audit beforehand?

Yes, the IRS will send you a notice of the audit via mail.

What are the different types of IRS audits?

There are three types of IRS audits. 

The first one is the correspondence audit. In this audit, you will have to back up the claims made on the returns by sending additional documents. This can include mileage logs for travel, canceled checks for charities, and receipts. 

The second type of IRS audits is the in-person audit for which you will be summoned to the office of the federal agency. 

Lastly, there is a field audit. This form of the audit will be your worst nightmare. IRS agents will be visiting you at home or office and check all the tax-related documents. 

What happens when I ignore the notice of the audit?

Ignoring the notice of the IRS audit won’t make the IRS go away. Instead, the IRS will begin to think that you are hiding something. It can force the IRS to investigate immediately and impose fines or penalties. They can even get a court order to force you to cooperate. So, after you have received the notice, it is best that you respond within 30 days. 

Can the IRS only audit my last filed tax return?

No, the IRS has 3 years for pursuing an audit. So, just because the year has passed, it doesn’t mean that you are off the hook. It is possible that you receive a notice for the 2018 returns in 2020. This is why it is recommended that you keep all the tax-related documents for 3 years.

What documents do I need to provide during the IRS audit?

You only need to submit the documents requested by the IRS. If you bring anything unnecessary, it might broaden the audit’s scope. If the IRS has asked for some unaccounted paperwork, try tracing your steps. In cases of charitable donations and medical expenses, you can easily get duplicate copies.

Do I need to have tax experts present during the IRS audit?

Having tax attorneys is not mandatory during an audit. However, having a tax attorney by your side can make the whole process a lot easier for you. Hire an attorney through tax resolution services, and he will do the rest. 

After you’ve hired tax experts, you should let them do the talking. If you volunteer extra information, it can open up another investigation and compromise your advantage. 

What will be the duration of IRS audits?

The duration of IRS audits can vary. However, tax experts recommend that you set aside a complete day to deal with the audit. 

The duration of the audit will depend on a number of factors, like how organized your financial records are or how complex the issues are. In case the IRS wants more time or wants to have a follow-up meeting, you will be notified. If you want an audio recording of the proceedings, you have to give a 10-day notice to the IRS.

What penalties might I be liable to pay after the audit?

If the IRS decided that you have underpaid taxes, you might face either one of the following penalties:

  • If the IRS finds an underpayment because of undervaluation or overvaluation of the property, understating tax liability, neglecting, or disregarding rules and regulations of the IRS, you will be facing a 20% penalty.
  • For cases of serious underpayments that are related to fraud, you might face a penalty of 75%. If this is the case, it will be your responsibility to prove otherwise.
  • For all the violations made because of negligence, fraud, and not filing returns on time or valuing the property incorrectly, you might face interest payments. It will start from the due date of the return.
  • In severe cases of tax evasions, you might even face prison. 

Can the outcome of IRS audits be appealed?

If the IRS has imposed a penalty on you and you are not satisfied with the audit report, it is possible to appeal to this outcome. You will have to send an appeal letter to the IRS within 30 days after the audit proceedings ended. If the IRS denies your appeal, you can file a petition in the tax court for bills worth $50,000 or less. For the amount more than that, you will have to knock on the door or a regular court. 

For cases of IRS audits it is best that you hire tax experts from tax resolution services. An attorney will help you put a strong foot forward. There are a number of tax resolution services in the US that can help you with your tax-related issues. IRS audit can be a complicated process with extreme outcomes. However, as long as you abide by the law, you won’t have to worry about anything.