Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

You may qualify if you owe $50,000 or less in combined tax, penalties, and interest. You must also be current with all required tax filings for the years you owe taxes. The IRS considers your current financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. If you can prove genuine financial hardship preventing full payment, you might qualify for reduced payment options or even debt forgiveness. During our free consultation, we review your complete tax situation and determine which Fresh Start options apply to your case. Don't guess about eligibility - let us evaluate your specific circumstances.

Question 2

What's the difference between legitimate tax relief and scam companies?

Accepted Answer

Real tax professionals don't misrepresent Fresh Start as a limited-time offer or promise unrealistic results. The IRS warns about companies that appear to be the IRS or make false promises about the Fresh Start program. Legitimate firms like ours offer free consultations without high-pressure sales tactics. We explain exactly what we can and cannot do based on your specific situation. We don't promise 90% debt elimination or guaranteed acceptance - those are red flags. Reputable tax professionals don't use artificial deadlines or pressure tactics. The Fresh Start Program has been available since 2011 and isn't going anywhere.

Question 3

How long does the Fresh Start Program process take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline depends on which relief option fits your case and how quickly you provide required documentation. Proper documentation is crucial as it forms the basis of your application. Many taxpayers resolve their debt in as little as two years compared to the previous five-year timeframes. Offers in Compromise must be fully paid within 24 months of acceptance. Payment plans require detailed breakdown of your income and expenses to assess payment capacity. We expedite the process by ensuring all forms are completed correctly the first time and maintaining direct contact with IRS agents handling your case.

Question 4

Can the IRS still take my property while my case is being reviewed?

Accepted Answer

If you qualify for Currently Not Collectible status, the IRS stops all collection actions while your case is under review. This includes bank levies, wage garnishments, and property seizures. The Fresh Start Program increased the threshold for tax liens - the IRS generally only issues liens if you owe $10,000 or more. For existing liens, the program allows lien withdrawal when balances fall below $25,000 under certain conditions. However, collection protection isn't automatic. You need proper representation to ensure your case is handled correctly and your rights are protected throughout the process. That's why professional help is essential - one mistake can restart aggressive collection actions.

Question 5

What happens if my Offer in Compromise gets rejected?

Accepted Answer

OIC acceptance isn't guaranteed - each application is evaluated on its merits, considering income, expenses, and asset equity. However, rejection doesn't mean you're out of options. We can appeal the decision, submit a revised offer with additional documentation, or pursue alternative relief options like installment agreements or Currently Not Collectible status. The Fresh Start Initiative has eased eligibility criteria, but detailed financial disclosures are still required. Many rejections occur due to incomplete documentation or calculation errors - problems we avoid through thorough case preparation. Professional guidance proves invaluable in understanding process intricacies and increasing chances of favorable outcomes.

Question 6

Should I try to handle this myself or hire a professional?

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 program's complex eligibility criteria can be daunting, and professional guidance ensures all standards are properly met. The application process demands precision in filling out tax forms, and only qualified taxpayers receive assistance - many struggling with tax liabilities find the door hard to open without help. One mistake can cost you thousands in additional penalties or disqualify you from relief programs entirely. We handle the paperwork, negotiate with agents, and protect your rights throughout the process. The peace of mind alone is worth the professional representation - call 570-630-0201 or text 570-470-5228 to get started.

IRS Fresh Start Program Eagle Lake, PA