Question 1

How much does tax resolution cost in Pine Mill, PA?

Accepted Answer

Tax resolution fees depend on the complexity of your case and the services needed. We now charge a consultation fee upfront, but if you decide to work with us, we credit 100% of that fee toward your resolution work.

Simple cases like setting up payment plans typically cost less than complex situations involving multiple years of unfiled returns or business tax problems. We provide transparent pricing during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect. No hidden fees, no surprise bills halfway through the process.

The real question isn't what resolution costs, but what it costs to do nothing. IRS penalties and interest compound daily, and Pennsylvania has no time limit on collecting tax debts. The sooner you address the problem, the less it ultimately costs to resolve.

Question 2

Can the IRS really take my house for unpaid taxes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the IRS can seize and sell your home if you owe significant back taxes and haven't arranged payment. However, they typically use this as a last resort after other collection methods have failed.

Before seizing your primary residence, the IRS usually tries wage garnishments, bank levies, and liens on other assets. They're required to follow specific procedures and give you opportunities to resolve the debt through payment plans or other arrangements.

The key is acting before it reaches that point. Once we get involved, we can often stop collection actions and negotiate a solution that protects your home. We've helped many Pine Mill families avoid foreclosure by setting up affordable payment plans or qualifying them for hardship status. Don't wait until you get a final notice of intent to levy.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

The IRS can file substitute returns for you using information from employers and banks, but these typically show maximum tax owed with no deductions or credits. This often results in much higher tax bills than if you filed yourself.

We help clients prepare and file back returns strategically. Sometimes it makes sense to file all missing returns at once, other times we file them in a specific sequence to minimize penalties and interest. We also look for legitimate deductions and credits you might have missed.

Pennsylvania is particularly aggressive about unfiled returns. The state can garnish wages, levy bank accounts, and even suspend business licenses for unfiled returns. We work with both the IRS and Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to get you current and compliant. The sooner we start, the more options we have to minimize your total liability.

Question 4

How long does it take to resolve tax problems?

Accepted Answer

Simple cases like payment plan agreements can often be resolved in 30-60 days. Complex situations involving multiple years of unfiled returns, audits, or offers in compromise typically take 6-12 months or longer.

The timeline depends on several factors: how quickly you provide required documentation, the IRS's current processing times, and the complexity of your specific situation. We always aim for the fastest resolution possible while ensuring we get the best outcome for your circumstances.

One thing we can do immediately is stop most collection actions. Once we file the proper paperwork with the IRS, they typically halt wage garnishments and bank levies while we negotiate a solution. This gives you breathing room to get your finances organized without the constant threat of collection actions.

Question 5

Will working with you stop IRS collection actions immediately?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. When we file proper representation paperwork and begin negotiations, the IRS typically suspends collection actions like wage garnishments and bank levies. This happens quickly, often within days of us contacting them on your behalf.

However, the IRS won't stop collection actions just because you hired a tax professional. We need to actively engage with them and show that you're working toward a resolution. This might involve submitting financial information, proposing a payment plan, or filing missing returns.

The key is acting fast. The longer collection actions continue, the more damage they do to your finances. We've had clients who waited months to get help, watching their bank accounts get drained every month. Don't let that happen to you. The sooner we can intervene, the sooner we can stop the financial bleeding and start working toward a permanent solution.

Question 6

Do I qualify for an offer in compromise to settle for less?

Accepted Answer

Offers in compromise are legitimate but much more restrictive than most people realize. The IRS only accepts about 26% of applications, and you must meet strict financial criteria showing you truly cannot pay the full amount owed.

We thoroughly analyze your financial situation before recommending an offer in compromise. You need to demonstrate that paying the full tax debt would create genuine economic hardship. The IRS looks at your assets, income, expenses, and future earning potential to determine what you can reasonably pay.

Many tax resolution companies promise "pennies on the dollar" settlements that simply aren't realistic for most taxpayers. We're honest about your options from the start. If you don't qualify for an offer in compromise, we'll recommend alternatives like payment plans or penalty abatement that actually fit your situation. Our job is to get you the best outcome possible, not to sell you services you don't need.

Tax Preparation Pine Mill, PA