Question 1

How do I know if I qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program?

Accepted Answer

Qualification depends on your total debt amount, current financial situation, and compliance history. For streamlined installment agreements, you typically need to owe $50,000 or less and be current on all tax filings. Offers in compromise require demonstrating that paying your full debt would create financial hardship.The IRS evaluates your monthly income against allowable living expenses to determine what you can reasonably pay. If that amount is significantly less than your total debt, you likely qualify for relief. We analyze your specific situation during our free consultation and explain exactly which programs are available based on your circumstances.

Question 2

How long does the Fresh Start Program application process take?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary by program type and case complexity. Streamlined installment agreements often get approved within 30-60 days when all documentation is complete and accurate. These agreements can sometimes be established over the phone for qualifying taxpayers.Offers in compromise typically take 6-12 months for full IRS review, but collection activities usually stop during this period. Currently not collectible status can be granted within 30-45 days if you meet the financial hardship criteria. We handle all IRS communication and keep you updated throughout the entire process.

Question 3

Will penalties and interest continue adding to my debt?

Accepted Answer

This depends on which relief program you enter. With installment agreements, interest continues accruing on your remaining balance, but failure-to-pay penalties stop as long as you make required payments on time. The interest rate is also typically lower than what you were paying before entering the agreement.Penalty abatement can eliminate many penalties if you have reasonable cause or a clean compliance history. Offers in compromise, when accepted, eliminate all remaining debt including penalties and interest. We help determine which combination of relief options minimizes your total costs and gets you the best possible outcome.

Question 4

What happens if I can't make my installment agreement payments?

Accepted Answer

Contact us immediately if you're having trouble making payments. The IRS allows installment agreement modifications when your financial circumstances genuinely change. We can request payment reductions, temporary suspensions, or conversion to currently not collectible status depending on your situation.Never just stop paying without communication - that defaults your agreement and restarts collection activities including potential wage garnishment. With proper representation, most payment difficulties can be resolved through modification requests that keep you in good standing while addressing your financial reality.

Question 5

Can the IRS garnish my wages while I'm in the Fresh Start Program?

Accepted Answer

Active collection activities like wage garnishment typically stop once you're accepted into a Fresh Start program and making required payments. The IRS won't initiate new levies as long as you remain compliant with your agreement terms and stay current on new tax obligations.If you're already facing garnishment, entering a Fresh Start program usually results in levy release within 30 days of approval. However, any default on your agreement can restart collection activities immediately. Professional representation helps ensure you understand all requirements and maintain compliance to keep your protection intact.

Question 6

Should I handle the Fresh Start Program application myself?

Accepted Answer

While self-application is possible, professional representation dramatically improves your approval odds and final terms. The IRS rejects many applications due to incomplete paperwork, mathematical errors, or applicants choosing inappropriate relief options for their circumstances.We know exactly what documentation the IRS requires, how to present your financial information most favorably, and which arguments work best for different situations. More importantly, we handle all IRS communication so you avoid the stress and intimidation of dealing directly with federal agents. Would you go to court without a lawyer? Of course not! Then why would you go before the IRS without a trusted tax professional?

IRS Fresh Start Program Coolbaugh, PA