Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Tax preparation involves filing current year returns and basic compliance work. Tax resolution addresses serious problems like unpaid taxes, IRS audits, liens, levies, and unfiled returns from previous years. While tax preparers focus on getting your current returns filed correctly, we negotiate with the IRS to solve existing problems. We handle payment plans, penalty abatements, audit defense, and asset protection—services that go far beyond basic tax preparation. If you're receiving IRS notices or have tax debt, you need resolution services, not just preparation. The stakes are higher, and you need professionals who specialize in dealing with IRS enforcement actions.

Question 2

How much does tax resolution cost compared to regular tax preparation?

Accepted Answer

Tax resolution services cost more than basic tax preparation because the work is more complex and time-intensive. However, the investment often pays for itself through penalty reductions, favorable payment terms, and protection of your assets. We offer free initial consultations so you understand exactly what you're dealing with before making any financial commitment. During this consultation, we'll explain all costs upfront and help you understand the potential savings from professional representation. Consider this: IRS penalties and interest continue accumulating while problems go unresolved. Professional resolution services often save clients more money than they cost by stopping penalties and negotiating favorable settlements.

Question 3

Can you help if I haven't filed tax returns for several years?

Accepted Answer

Yes, unfiled returns are one of our specialties. The IRS becomes increasingly aggressive with enforcement actions when returns remain unfiled, so addressing this quickly is crucial for protecting your assets. We'll prepare all missing returns, often identifying deductions and credits that reduce what you owe. Once returns are filed, we can negotiate payment plans or pursue other resolution options based on your financial situation. The key is acting before the IRS files substitute returns on your behalf, which typically results in much higher tax assessments since they don't include deductions you're entitled to claim.

Question 4

What happens during an IRS audit and how can you help?

Accepted Answer

IRS audits involve the agency reviewing your tax return and requesting documentation to verify the information you reported. This can happen through mail correspondence or in-person meetings, depending on the complexity of issues involved. We handle all communications with the IRS during audits, ensuring you don't accidentally say something that hurts your case. We prepare all required documentation, respond to IRS requests, and represent you during any meetings or phone calls. Our goal is resolving audits with no additional tax owed, but if adjustments are necessary, we negotiate the most favorable outcome possible. Having professional representation significantly improves your chances of a positive audit result.

Question 5

How long does it take to resolve IRS tax problems?

Accepted Answer

Resolution timeframes vary significantly based on the complexity of your case and which resolution options you pursue. Simple payment plans might be approved within 30-60 days, while offers in compromise can take 6-12 months or longer. The IRS has specific processing timeframes they must follow, but having professional representation often speeds up the process because we know how to present cases properly the first time. We also know how to prioritize urgent situations like pending levies. We'll give you realistic timeframe expectations during your consultation based on your specific circumstances. Throughout the process, we keep you updated on progress and any delays we encounter.

Question 6

Do you only work with people who owe large amounts of tax debt?

Accepted Answer

No, we help clients with tax debts of all sizes. Whether you owe $5,000 or $500,000, the IRS enforcement procedures are similar, and you deserve professional representation regardless of the amount involved. Sometimes smaller cases are actually more urgent because the IRS collection actions can have a bigger impact on your daily life. A wage garnishment might be devastating for someone with modest income, even if the underlying debt is relatively small. We evaluate each case based on your specific circumstances and the urgency of your situation, not just the dollar amount owed. Our goal is always achieving the best possible outcome for your particular financial situation.

Tax Preparation Stevens Point, PA