Question 1

How much can the IRS Fresh Start Program reduce my tax debt?

Accepted Answer

The reduction depends on your specific financial situation, but many taxpayers see dramatic results. Offer in Compromise settlements can reduce your debt by 90% or more if you qualify. For example, if you owe $50,000, you might settle for $5,000 or less. Penalty abatement alone can cut your debt in half since penalties often equal or exceed the original tax owed. The key is proving to the IRS that paying the full amount would cause financial hardship or that you have reasonable cause for the original non-payment. Every case is different, which is why we start with a free consultation to calculate your potential savings. We've seen clients go from owing $75,000 to paying $8,000 total through the Fresh Start Program. End the sleepless nights—call 570-630-0201 or book online today.

Question 2

What are the income limits for the Fresh Start Program in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

There are no strict income limits for the Fresh Start Program, but your income affects which options you qualify for. Generally, if you're single earning under $100,000 or married earning under $200,000, you have better chances for certain relief options. The IRS looks at your ability to pay, not just your income. If you have high medical expenses, mortgage payments, or other necessary living expenses, you might qualify even with higher income. Pennsylvania's cost of living, especially in Monroe County, works in your favor during these calculations. Self-employed individuals who've had income drops of 25% or more often qualify for streamlined agreements. The IRS considers your current financial reality, not what you earned in better years. Text us at 570-470-5228 for quick questions.

Question 3

How long does the Fresh Start Program application process take?

Accepted Answer

Most Fresh Start applications take 3-6 months from start to finish, but this varies by program type. Installment agreements typically process fastest—often within 30-60 days. Offers in Compromise take longer, usually 6-12 months, because the IRS conducts thorough financial reviews. The timeline depends partly on having all required documentation ready. Missing tax returns, incomplete financial statements, or IRS requests for additional information can extend the process. That's why working with experienced professionals speeds things up significantly. During the application period, the IRS typically suspends collection actions. This means no new liens, levies, or garnishments while your case is under review. You get breathing room while we negotiate your settlement.

Question 4

Can I apply for the Fresh Start Program if I haven't filed recent tax returns?

Accepted Answer

You must file all required tax returns before the IRS will consider your Fresh Start application. This is non-negotiable—the IRS wants to see your complete tax picture before offering any relief programs. We handle the preparation and filing of missing returns as part of our service. Often, clients are surprised to learn they owe less than expected, or sometimes they're even entitled to refunds that reduce their overall debt. Getting current with filings is actually the first step toward freedom. Don't let unfiled returns keep you from getting help. We've prepared returns going back 10+ years for clients. Once everything's filed, we can immediately move forward with your Fresh Start application and start negotiating your settlement. We accept Mastercard and Visa with a 4% convenience fee.

Question 5

Will the Fresh Start Program stop IRS wage garnishments and bank levies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, entering certain Fresh Start programs immediately stops most IRS collection actions. Once you're accepted into an installment agreement or your Offer in Compromise is under review, the IRS typically releases existing levies and stops new collection efforts. If you're currently facing wage garnishment or bank levies, we can often get these released within days of filing your Fresh Start application. The IRS recognizes that aggressive collection actions prevent taxpayers from making agreed-upon payments. Currently-Not-Collectible status provides the strongest protection, completely stopping all collection actions if you're experiencing genuine financial hardship. This gives you time to get back on your feet without IRS pressure.

Question 6

What happens if I can't make my Fresh Start Program payments?

Accepted Answer

The IRS understands that financial situations change, and most Fresh Start agreements include modification options. If you experience job loss, medical emergencies, or other hardships, you can request payment plan modifications or temporary suspensions. The key is communicating with the IRS before missing payments, not after. We help clients request modifications when circumstances change, often successfully reducing payment amounts or extending payment periods. The IRS prefers working with taxpayers over returning to collection actions. If your financial situation becomes truly dire, you might qualify for Currently-Not-Collectible status, which suspends all payments until your situation improves. We will stand between you and the IRS, negotiate the lowest legal settlement, and give you the fresh start you deserve.

IRS Fresh Start Program Barrett, PA