Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns create serious problems that compound quickly. The IRS can file substitute returns on your behalf, often with no deductions or credits you're entitled to, resulting in artificially high tax bills.

The good news is that unfiled returns can be resolved, even years later. The process involves gathering all necessary documentation, preparing accurate returns, and often negotiating with the IRS about penalties and interest. In many cases, you'll owe less than the IRS initially calculated because substitute returns don't include deductions you're legally entitled to claim.

The key is acting quickly. The longer you wait, the more penalties and interest accumulate. But with professional help, even multi-year filing problems can be resolved systematically and affordably.

Question 2

Can you stop IRS wage garnishments and bank levies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, wage garnishments and bank levies can often be stopped, but timing is critical. Once the IRS issues a levy, you typically have 21 days before they seize bank funds, and wage garnishments begin immediately after proper notice.

The most effective approach is establishing a payment plan or proving financial hardship before levies occur. However, even after levies begin, they can sometimes be released by demonstrating that the levy creates economic hardship or by entering into a compliance agreement.

Bank levies are particularly devastating because they can wipe out business operating funds instantly. That's why immediate action is essential when you receive IRS notices. Professional intervention can often prevent levies entirely or minimize their impact through negotiated solutions.

Question 3

How much do tax resolution services cost?

Accepted Answer

All County Tax Resolution offers free initial consultations to evaluate your situation and explain your options. This lets you understand exactly what you're facing before making any financial commitments.

Costs vary significantly based on the complexity of your situation. Simple payment plan negotiations are less expensive than complex offers in compromise or multi-year audit representation. However, professional fees are almost always less than the penalties, interest, and additional taxes you'll face by handling problems incorrectly.

Most clients find that professional representation pays for itself through reduced penalties, better payment terms, or strategies they never would have known about. The consultation will give you specific cost information based on your actual situation, not generic estimates.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Tax preparation involves filing current year returns and basic compliance. Tax resolution deals with existing problems: unfiled returns, IRS audits, unpaid taxes, penalties, liens, levies, and other enforcement actions.

Many tax preparers can handle routine filings but lack experience with IRS problem resolution. Tax resolution requires specialized knowledge of IRS procedures, negotiation tactics, and legal options that most preparers never encounter in normal practice.

All County Tax Resolution specializes in both areas, which means we can prepare your current returns while simultaneously resolving past problems. This comprehensive approach ensures all your tax issues are handled by professionals who understand how different problems interconnect and affect each other.

Question 5

Will working with you guarantee the IRS will accept a settlement?

Accepted Answer

No ethical tax professional can guarantee specific IRS outcomes because the IRS makes final decisions based on their own criteria and policies. However, professional representation dramatically improves your chances of favorable outcomes.

The IRS has specific programs for taxpayers facing financial hardship, including offers in compromise, installment agreements, and currently not collectible status. Success depends on properly documenting your situation, following correct procedures, and presenting your case effectively—areas where professional expertise makes enormous difference.

What we can guarantee is that you'll understand all available options, have your case presented professionally, and receive honest assessment of likely outcomes. Many taxpayers achieve better results than they thought possible, but realistic expectations based on your specific circumstances are always the starting point.

Question 6

Do you handle both personal and business tax problems?

Accepted Answer

Yes, All County Tax Resolution handles tax problems for both individuals and businesses. Business tax issues are often more complex because they involve multiple tax types, employee responsibilities, and different resolution options.

Small businesses typically use tax preparation companies for their straightforward tax needs, and when these businesses are more profitable, they have more funds to invest in professional tax services rather than handling issues in-house. Business problems can include payroll tax issues, sales tax problems, corporate income tax disputes, and IRS audits.

Individual tax problems often involve income tax, but can also include issues with retirement account distributions, investment income, or side business activities. Both require specialized knowledge, but business cases often involve higher stakes and more complex resolution strategies. Our experience with both personal and business cases means we understand how these issues interact when business owners face problems in both areas.

Tax Preparation Milanville, PA