Question 1

How much does tax resolution cost in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

The cost depends on the complexity of your case and the services needed. We provide transparent pricing upfront after your free consultation, so you know exactly what to expect.

Most clients find our fees are a fraction of what they'd pay in penalties, interest, and continued collection actions. We also offer payment plans to make our services accessible when you're already dealing with financial stress.

The real question is: what's the cost of not addressing your tax problems? Interest continues accruing, penalties pile up, and collection actions escalate. Early intervention almost always saves money in the long run.

Question 2

Can you really reduce the amount I owe the IRS?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through several programs the IRS offers for taxpayers who qualify. An Offer in Compromise can reduce your debt to a fraction of what you owe if you meet specific criteria based on your income, expenses, and ability to pay.

We also pursue penalty abatements, which can eliminate significant portions of your debt that stem from penalties rather than actual taxes owed. Many clients are surprised to learn how much of their debt is penalties that can potentially be removed.

The key is having someone who understands these programs and knows how to present your case effectively. The IRS approves a small percentage of applications, but our experience significantly improves your chances of success.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns create a ticking time bomb. The IRS can file substitute returns on your behalf, often resulting in much higher tax bills than if you'd filed yourself. Pennsylvania also has aggressive collection practices for unfiled returns.

We help you get caught up by preparing all missing returns and negotiating with tax authorities about any resulting liabilities. Often, once we file the actual returns, the amount owed is significantly less than what the IRS estimated.

The sooner you address unfiled returns, the better. Each year you wait, the penalties and interest continue growing, and your options for resolution may become more limited.

Question 4

How long does the tax resolution process take?

Accepted Answer

Simple cases like installment agreements can often be resolved in 30-60 days. More complex situations involving offers in compromise or multiple tax years may take 6-12 months or longer.

The timeline depends on several factors: the complexity of your case, which resolution option we pursue, how quickly you provide required documentation, and the current workload at the IRS or state tax agency.

What's important is that once we begin representation, collection actions typically stop or are significantly reduced. You get immediate relief from the pressure while we work toward a permanent solution.

Question 5

Will tax resolution hurt my credit score?

Accepted Answer

Actually, tax resolution typically helps your credit. Tax liens appear on credit reports and can devastate your score. Once we successfully resolve your case and the lien is released, your credit begins recovering.

The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue files liens with county offices, making them public record. While they don't report directly to credit bureaus, these liens are often discovered and reported, damaging your credit for years.

Resolving your tax problems and getting liens released is often the single most impactful step you can take to improve your credit score and financial standing.

Question 6

Do you handle both federal and Pennsylvania state tax problems?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we handle both federal IRS issues and Pennsylvania state tax problems. Many clients have issues with both agencies, and we coordinate resolution efforts to ensure everything is handled efficiently.

Pennsylvania has its own unique tax laws and collection procedures. The state can be particularly aggressive with collection actions, and unlike federal taxes, there's no statute of limitations on Pennsylvania tax collection.

Our local expertise in Wayne County means we understand both the federal and state systems, and we know how to navigate Pennsylvania's specific requirements and procedures effectively.

Tax Preparation Weir Lake, PA