Question 1

How much will it cost to resolve my tax problems?

Accepted Answer

The cost depends entirely on the complexity of your situation and the type of resolution needed. Simple cases like setting up payment plans typically cost less than complex audits or offers in compromise that require extensive documentation and negotiation. We provide transparent pricing upfront after reviewing your case during the consultation. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges. If you decide to engage our services, we credit 100% of your consultation fee toward the resolution work. Most clients find our fees are a fraction of what they would pay in penalties and interest if they tried to handle the situation themselves or let it continue unresolved.

Question 2

Can you really stop wage garnishments and bank levies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases we can stop wage garnishments and bank levies quickly once we're engaged on your case. The IRS is required to release levies when appropriate payment arrangements are made or when your financial situation qualifies for other relief programs. For wage garnishments, we typically negotiate payment plans that are more manageable than what the IRS would leave you with through garnishment. For bank levies, time is critical - once the IRS seizes funds from your account, getting them back is much more difficult than preventing the levy in the first place. The key is acting quickly when you receive IRS notices. The sooner we can intervene, the more options we have available to protect your assets and income.

Question 3

What if I haven't filed tax returns for several years?

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns are one of the most common problems we resolve, and the IRS takes them very seriously. The longer you wait, the more penalties and interest accumulate, and the IRS may eventually file substitute returns for you that typically result in much higher tax liabilities. We handle the entire process of getting you current on all required filings. This includes gathering necessary documentation, reconstructing records if needed, and preparing accurate returns that maximize your deductions and credits. We also negotiate with the IRS to minimize penalties for late filing. For Pennsylvania residents, this is especially important because the state can also pursue collection action for unfiled returns. We handle both federal and state filing requirements to get you completely current and compliant.

Question 4

How long does the tax resolution process usually take?

Accepted Answer

The timeline varies significantly based on the type of resolution and the IRS's current processing times. Simple payment plans can often be established within 30-60 days. More complex cases like offers in compromise typically take 6-12 months due to extensive IRS review requirements. Audit cases depend on the scope of the audit and how quickly we can provide requested documentation. Most audits are resolved within 3-6 months when handled properly from the start. We keep you informed throughout the process and provide realistic timelines based on your specific situation. While we work to resolve cases as quickly as possible, we never rush the process in ways that could result in unfavorable outcomes.

Question 5

Will this affect my credit score and ability to get loans?

Accepted Answer

Tax liens do appear on credit reports and can significantly impact your credit score and ability to obtain financing. However, once we resolve your tax debt and the lien is released, your credit will begin to improve over time. The IRS is required to release liens within 30 days of full payment. For payment plans, we can sometimes negotiate lien withdrawals if you meet certain criteria, including making consistent payments and staying current on all future tax obligations. The sooner we resolve your tax problems, the sooner your credit can begin recovering. Many clients see improvement in their credit scores within 6-12 months of resolving their tax issues, especially when combined with other positive financial behaviors.

Question 6

Do you handle Pennsylvania state tax problems too?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we handle both federal and Pennsylvania state tax problems. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue can be just as aggressive as the IRS when it comes to collecting unpaid taxes, and they have similar powers to file liens, levy bank accounts, and garnish wages. Pennsylvania has its own set of tax laws and procedures that differ from federal requirements. For example, Pennsylvania's personal income tax rate is 3.07%, and the state has specific rules for business taxes, sales tax, and withholding requirements that many taxpayers find confusing. We're familiar with Pennsylvania's tax system and maintain relationships with state revenue officers. Whether you owe personal income tax, business taxes, or sales tax to Pennsylvania, we can negotiate resolutions and payment plans just like we do with federal tax problems.

Tax Preparation Fortenia, PA