Question 1

What is the IRS Fresh Start Program and do I qualify in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

The IRS Fresh Start Program is a collection of policies designed to help struggling taxpayers resolve their tax debt through payment plans, debt reduction, or temporary collection delays. To qualify, you typically need to owe $50,000 or less in combined taxes, penalties, and interest, be current on all required tax filings, and demonstrate financial hardship.Pennsylvania residents have the same federal qualification requirements as other states, but we also help with state-specific tax issues. If you're behind on taxes due to job loss, medical bills, business struggles, or other financial hardships, you likely qualify for some form of relief. The key is proper application—one mistake can result in rejection and make your situation worse.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

The reduction depends on your specific financial situation and which program option fits your case. Offers in Compromise can reduce debt by 90% or more in qualifying cases—we've seen $50,000 debts settled for $5,000 or less. Penalty abatement alone can eliminate thousands in accumulated fees, sometimes reducing total debt by 30-50%.Installment agreements don't reduce the principal amount owed, but they stop penalties and make payments manageable—often as low as $25-100 monthly. Currently Not Collectible status doesn't reduce debt but stops all collection actions, giving you breathing room to improve your financial situation. The exact savings depend on your income, expenses, assets, and ability to pay.

Question 3

Can I apply for the Fresh Start Program myself or do I need professional help?

Accepted Answer

You can technically apply yourself, but it's risky and often counterproductive. The IRS forms are complex, the financial calculations are precise, and one error can result in rejection or worse terms than you'd qualify for. Many people who try the DIY approach end up paying more than necessary or getting rejected entirely.Professional representation also provides immediate protection—once we're your representative, the IRS stops contacting you directly and works through us. This ends the stress of threatening letters and phone calls while we negotiate. We know which programs you qualify for, how to present your case for maximum benefit, and how to handle IRS objections or complications that arise during the process.

Question 4

How long does the IRS Fresh Start Program application process take?

Accepted Answer

The timeline varies by program type and case complexity. Streamlined installment agreements can be approved within 30-60 days. Offers in Compromise typically take 6-12 months for IRS review and decision. Penalty abatement requests usually get responses within 2-4 months.However, protection starts immediately once we submit your application. The IRS suspends most collection actions—no more bank levies, wage garnishments, or property seizures while your case is under review. If you're facing immediate collection action, we can often get emergency holds in place within days. The key is starting the process quickly—every day you wait, penalties and interest continue accumulating.

Question 5

What happens if my Fresh Start Program application gets rejected?

Accepted Answer

Rejection isn't the end of the road—it's often just the beginning of negotiations. We can appeal the decision, provide additional documentation, or modify the application based on IRS feedback. Many cases that get initially rejected are eventually approved with proper professional representation.If one program doesn't work, we explore alternatives. Can't qualify for an Offer in Compromise? Maybe a partial payment installment agreement works better. Rejected for Currently Not Collectible? Perhaps penalty abatement combined with a payment plan achieves your goals. We don't give up after one "no"—we find the path that works for your specific situation and keep fighting until we get results.

Question 6

Will the IRS Fresh Start Program affect my credit score or future tax obligations?

Accepted Answer

The program itself doesn't directly impact your credit score, but resolving tax liens and levies definitely helps. Once we successfully negotiate lien withdrawals or releases, your credit typically improves within 30-90 days. Payment plans and settled debts show as resolved tax issues, which is much better than ongoing delinquencies.Future tax obligations remain the same—you still need to file returns on time and pay what you owe going forward. However, staying compliant is usually easier once your back tax burden is resolved. We also provide guidance on quarterly payments, withholding adjustments, and other strategies to prevent future problems. The goal is not just solving today's crisis, but keeping you out of trouble tomorrow. End the sleepless nights. Call 570-630-0201 or book online today. We will stand between you and the IRS, negotiate the lowest legal settlement, and give you the fresh start you deserve. We accept Mastercard and Visa with a 4% convenience fee.

IRS Fresh Start Program Bidwell Hill, PA