Question 1

How much does tax resolution cost in Harford, PA?

Accepted Answer

Fees depend entirely on the complexity of your specific situation and what needs to be resolved. Simple cases like unfiled returns cost less than complex business tax problems involving multiple years and agencies.

All County Tax Resolution provides upfront pricing after reviewing your case, so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins. We also credit 100% of consultation fees toward resolution work if you decide to move forward. This approach eliminates surprise bills and ensures you're comfortable with the investment before proceeding.

The key is understanding that professional representation typically costs far less than continuing to accumulate penalties and interest while trying to handle things yourself. Most clients find the fees reasonable compared to the stress relief and money saved through proper resolution.

Question 2

Can you stop IRS wage garnishment in Harford?

Accepted Answer

Yes, wage garnishments can often be stopped, but the approach depends on your specific circumstances. If you qualify for a payment plan, Offer in Compromise, or currently not collectible status, the garnishment typically gets released as part of the resolution.

The key is acting quickly because garnishments continue until there's an approved alternative arrangement with the IRS. All County Tax Resolution can contact the IRS immediately to request garnishment release while working on your long-term solution.

For Harford residents, this is especially important because wage garnishments can take up to 25% of your disposable income. That kind of financial hit affects your ability to pay rent, buy groceries, and handle other essential expenses. Getting it stopped quickly while addressing the underlying tax debt is crucial for maintaining financial stability.

Question 3

What happens if I haven't filed taxes in years?

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns create serious problems that get worse over time, but they're absolutely fixable with the right approach. The IRS can file substitute returns for you, but these typically show the maximum tax liability with no deductions or credits you're entitled to claim.

The solution involves preparing and filing all missing returns, then addressing any resulting tax debt through appropriate resolution options. Often, properly prepared returns show significantly less tax owed than the IRS substitute returns, which can reduce your overall debt substantially.

For Harford residents with unfiled business returns, this becomes even more critical because Pennsylvania requires both federal and state filings. The longer you wait, the more penalties accumulate on both levels. However, penalty abatement options are often available for reasonable cause, especially when you're getting back into compliance voluntarily rather than being forced into it by enforcement action.

Question 4

Do you handle Pennsylvania state tax problems too?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Pennsylvania state tax problems require the same level of professional attention as federal issues, and sometimes they're more aggressive in their collection efforts than the IRS.

All County Tax Resolution handles both Pennsylvania Department of Revenue issues and local tax problems throughout the state. This includes corporate income tax disputes, sales tax problems, payroll tax issues, and personal income tax matters. Having representation that understands both federal and state procedures means everything gets resolved efficiently without conflicting strategies.

For Harford businesses, this is particularly important because Pennsylvania's tax landscape is complex and constantly changing. The recent corporate tax rate reductions and new compliance requirements create opportunities for savings, but also potential pitfalls if not handled properly. Professional guidance ensures you're taking advantage of beneficial changes while staying compliant with all requirements.

Question 5

How long does tax resolution take in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

Timeline varies significantly based on the complexity of your case and which resolution option makes sense for your situation. Simple payment plan requests might be approved within 30-60 days, while Offer in Compromise cases can take 6-12 months or longer.

The IRS has specific timeframes they're supposed to meet for different types of cases, but these often get extended due to their backlog and processing delays. Having professional representation helps ensure your case doesn't get lost in the system and moves forward as efficiently as possible.

What's most important is getting immediate protection from collection actions while the resolution is being processed. This means stopping garnishments, preventing bank levies, and halting other enforcement actions so you can function normally while the case is being resolved. All County Tax Resolution focuses on getting you this protection quickly, then working toward the long-term solution at whatever pace the system allows.

Question 6

What's an Offer in Compromise and do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

An Offer in Compromise lets you settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed, but qualification requirements are strict and the process is complex. The IRS only accepts about 26% of applications, though experienced professionals have much higher success rates.

You might qualify if paying the full amount would create financial hardship, if there's doubt about whether you actually owe the amount claimed, or if exceptional circumstances make full payment inequitable. The IRS looks at your income, expenses, assets, and future earning potential to determine what you can reasonably pay.

For Harford residents, this option can be particularly valuable given Pennsylvania's high tax rates and cost of living pressures. However, the application process requires extensive financial documentation and strategic presentation of your case. Getting it wrong can result in rejection and loss of the application fee, plus you're still stuck with the original debt. That's why professional evaluation of your situation is crucial before deciding whether to pursue this option.

Tax Preparation Harford, PA