Question 1

What's the difference between tax preparation and tax resolution services?

Accepted Answer

Tax preparation is filing your annual return. Tax resolution is fixing problems that have already happened—like unpaid taxes, IRS audits, liens, or unfiled returns from previous years.

Most tax preparers only handle current year filings. When you get an IRS notice or face collection actions, they refer you somewhere else. We handle both the preparation and resolution sides, so you have one team managing your entire tax situation.

If you're current on your taxes and just need this year's return filed, that's straightforward preparation. But if you're dealing with back taxes, penalties, or IRS communications, you need resolution services to get those issues cleared up properly.

Question 2

How much does professional tax preparation cost in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

Basic personal returns typically range from $200-400, depending on complexity. Business returns and resolution services vary significantly based on what needs to be done.

We provide free initial consultations because every situation is different. Some people need simple preparation, others need years of unfiled returns prepared, and some need full IRS representation. The cost depends on the scope of work required.

What's important is getting it done right the first time. Cheap preparation that misses deductions or creates compliance problems ends up costing much more when you have to fix the mistakes later.

Question 3

Can you help if I haven't filed taxes in several years?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we specialize in preparing and filing multiple years of back returns. This is actually one of our most common services because many people fall behind and don't know how to catch up.

The process involves reconstructing your tax information for each missing year, preparing all the returns, and filing them in the correct sequence. We also handle any penalties or payment arrangements needed to get you back in compliance.

The IRS is typically more lenient when you voluntarily file missing returns before they contact you. We know how to present your case to minimize penalties and get you back on track with the least financial impact possible.

Question 4

What should I do if I received an IRS notice or letter?

Accepted Answer

Don't ignore it, but don't panic either. IRS notices have specific deadlines, so the first step is understanding what they're asking for and when you need to respond.

Bring the notice to us immediately. We can interpret what the IRS actually wants, determine if their calculations are correct, and handle the response for you. Many notices are for simple issues that can be resolved quickly with the right documentation.

Some notices require immediate action to protect your rights, while others are just informational. We know the difference and can prioritize your response appropriately. The worst thing you can do is ignore IRS correspondence—that's when small problems become big ones.

Question 5

Do you offer payment plans for your services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we understand that tax problems often come with financial stress. We offer flexible payment arrangements because we want to help you resolve these issues, not create additional financial burden.

For complex resolution cases, we typically require a retainer to begin work, then arrange monthly payments for the remaining balance. This allows us to start addressing urgent issues immediately while spreading the cost over time.

We're upfront about all costs during your free consultation. No surprise fees or hidden charges. We want you focused on getting your tax problems resolved, not worrying about how to pay for the help you need.

Question 6

How long does it take to resolve IRS tax problems?

Accepted Answer

Simple issues like filing missing returns can be resolved in a few weeks. Complex cases involving negotiations, audits, or collection actions typically take 3-6 months, sometimes longer depending on IRS processing times.

The timeline depends on what needs to be done and how quickly the IRS responds. We can often stop collection actions quickly while working on the underlying resolution. Emergency situations like wage garnishments get immediate attention.

We keep you updated throughout the process and explain any delays. Most importantly, we handle all communication with the IRS during this time, so you can focus on your business and family while we work on getting your tax problems permanently resolved.

Tax Preparation Brainerd Center, PA