Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The reduction depends on your financial situation, but qualified taxpayers can see reductions of 90% or more through an Offer in Compromise. We've helped clients settle $40,000 debts for $4,000, and $80,000 debts for $8,000. The key is proving to the IRS that you can't pay the full amount without causing significant financial hardship. We gather all your financial information, calculate what the IRS considers your ability to pay, and negotiate from there. Not everyone qualifies for massive reductions, but almost everyone qualifies for some form of relief. Even if it's just penalty removal or affordable payment plans, we find something that works for your situation.

Question 2

What happens if I owe more than $50,000 to the IRS?

Accepted Answer

You can still get help, but the process is different. For streamlined installment agreements, the IRS prefers debts under $50,000, but you can make a partial payment to get under that threshold. For larger debts, we typically look at Offers in Compromise or partial payment installment agreements. These require more documentation and take longer to process, but the potential savings are much larger. We've successfully resolved six-figure tax debts for clients. One business owner owed over $200,000 and settled for $15,000. The amount you owe doesn't disqualify you from relief - it just changes which options we use.

Question 3

How long does the Fresh Start Program process take to complete?

Accepted Answer

Simple installment agreements can be set up in 30-60 days. Offers in Compromise typically take 6-12 months, sometimes longer if the IRS requests additional information. The timeline depends on which option we pursue and how quickly you provide the required documentation. Currently-Not-Collectible status can happen quickly if you're facing immediate hardship. During the process, the IRS stops most collection activities. No more threatening letters, no wage garnishments, no bank levies. You get breathing room while we work on your permanent solution.

Question 4

Do I need to have filed all my tax returns before applying?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must be current on all required filings before the IRS will consider any Fresh Start options. This is non-negotiable - they want to see you're committed to compliance going forward. We handle the preparation and filing of any missing returns as part of our service. We'll reconstruct your tax records, file everything properly, and then move forward with your resolution. Don't let unfiled returns stop you from getting help. We've filed decades of back returns for clients. Once everything's current, we can pursue the relief options that work best for your situation.

Question 5

Will using the Fresh Start Program hurt my credit score?

Accepted Answer

The Fresh Start Program itself doesn't directly impact your credit score. However, existing tax liens already on your credit report will remain until they're released or withdrawn. The good news is that once you complete a Fresh Start resolution, any tax liens can be withdrawn rather than just released, which removes them from your credit report entirely. Getting into a resolution program actually helps your credit long-term by stopping new liens from being filed and eventually removing existing ones. It's much better than letting the IRS continue collection activities.

Question 6

Why should I hire a professional instead of dealing with the IRS myself?

Accepted Answer

Would you go to court without a lawyer? Of course not. Then why would you go before the IRS without a trusted tax professional? The IRS has trained negotiators whose job is to collect as much as possible. They know the rules, the exceptions, and the strategies. You need someone on your side who knows them too. We know which offers the IRS accepts and which ones get rejected. We know how to present your financial information to get the best outcome. Most importantly, we handle all the stress and paperwork while you get back to living your life.

IRS Fresh Start Program Conashaugh Lakes, PA