Question 1

What happens if I don't pay my taxes in Pike County?

Accepted Answer

Pike County takes unpaid taxes seriously, and the consequences escalate quickly. Real estate taxes become delinquent after December 31st, and the Tax Claim Bureau adds a $25 fee per claim plus 9% annual interest.

For state taxes, Pennsylvania files liens with the county Prothonotary Office, making your debt public record. This affects your credit score and ability to sell property, get loans, or transfer business ownership. The lien ensures Pennsylvania gets paid before other creditors in any financial transaction.

Federal tax problems are even more serious. The IRS can place liens on all your assets and future property. If you continue ignoring the problem, they can levy your bank accounts, garnish wages, and seize property to satisfy the debt. The key is addressing these issues before they escalate to enforcement actions.

Question 2

How long does tax resolution take in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

The timeline depends entirely on your specific situation and which resolution option works best. Simple payment plans can often be arranged within 30-60 days. More complex cases involving offers in compromise or audit appeals can take 6-12 months or longer.

Pennsylvania state tax issues typically move faster than federal cases because the state has fewer bureaucratic layers. However, if you owe both state and federal taxes, we usually need to coordinate resolution strategies to avoid conflicting agreements.

The most important factor is getting started quickly. Every month you wait, interest and penalties continue accumulating. Pennsylvania charges 9% annually on unpaid taxes, and the IRS adds both interest and failure-to-pay penalties. Early action always saves money and provides more resolution options.

Question 3

Can you help with IRS audits for small businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide complete audit representation for both IRS and Pennsylvania Department of Revenue examinations. Small businesses face higher audit risk due to factors like worker classification issues, large deductions relative to income, and inconsistent year-to-year reporting.

We handle the entire audit process, from initial document requests through final resolution. This includes organizing your records, communicating with auditors, negotiating disputed items, and filing appeals if necessary. You don't have to deal directly with tax authorities.

Pennsylvania audits often focus on sales tax compliance, especially for businesses that sell online or across state lines. The state's economic nexus rules and changing exemption requirements create compliance challenges that can result in significant assessments. Having experienced representation helps ensure you only pay what you actually owe.

Question 4

What's the difference between tax liens and tax levies?

Accepted Answer

A tax lien is a legal claim against your property that secures the government's interest in your unpaid tax debt. It's like a mortgage - the property stays in your possession, but you can't sell it or borrow against it without satisfying the lien first.

A tax levy is much more serious. It's the actual seizure of your property to pay the tax debt. The IRS can levy bank accounts, garnish wages, seize business assets, and even take your home. Levies happen after liens, usually when taxpayers ignore multiple notices and demands for payment.

In Pennsylvania, both state and federal authorities can file liens and issue levies. State liens are filed with the county Prothonotary Office where you live or do business. The key is resolving tax problems before they reach the levy stage, when your options become much more limited and expensive.

Question 5

Do you offer payment plans for tax debt?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we negotiate payment plans with both the IRS and Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, but not every taxpayer qualifies for every type of plan. The IRS offers several installment agreement options, including direct debit plans that can sometimes result in lien withdrawal.

Pennsylvania also provides payment plan options for qualified taxpayers. The key is demonstrating your ability to make consistent payments while staying current on ongoing tax obligations. Missing payments or falling behind on current taxes can result in default and immediate enforcement action.

We analyze your financial situation to determine which payment plan option provides the best terms and lowest total cost. Sometimes a shorter payment period with higher monthly payments saves significant money in interest and penalties. Other times, a longer plan with lower payments is necessary to avoid financial hardship.

Question 6

How much do your tax resolution services cost?

Accepted Answer

Our fees depend on the complexity of your case and the services required. We provide transparent pricing during your initial consultation, so you know exactly what to expect before we begin work.

For consultation fees, we offer a 100% credit toward resolution services if you decide to hire us. This means your consultation investment goes directly toward solving your tax problem, not just discussing it.

We don't make unrealistic promises about "pennies on the dollar" settlements that rarely apply to most taxpayers. Instead, we focus on realistic solutions that actually work for your situation. Many clients save far more in avoided penalties, interest, and enforcement costs than they pay in professional fees.

Tax Preparation Saw Creek, PA