Question 1

Do I qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program if I owe more than $50,000?

Accepted Answer

The $50,000 threshold applies to streamlined installment agreements, but that doesn't mean you're out of options if you owe more. The IRS still offers regular installment agreements, partial payment plans, and other relief programs for larger debts. Eligibility primarily depends on your income level, tax debt amount and ability to pay. We've helped clients with debts well over $50,000 achieve significant reductions through Offers in Compromise and other negotiated settlements. The key is presenting your financial situation properly using IRS procedures and formulas they recognize. Each case is unique, which is why we offer free consultations to review your specific situation. Don't assume you don't qualify based on the amount alone—let us evaluate all available options for your circumstances.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

The changes may help taxpayers resolve their debt in as little as two years compared to upwards of five years in the past. However, the timeline varies significantly based on which relief option fits your situation and how quickly you provide required documentation. Your offer is automatically accepted if the IRS doesn't make a determination within two years for Offers in Compromise. Installment agreements typically get approved much faster—often within 30-60 days if everything is properly documented. The biggest factor affecting timeline is having all required tax returns filed and complete financial information ready. You must be current with all tax filings and demonstrate your financial situation clearly. We handle the paperwork and follow-up to keep things moving as quickly as possible.

Question 3

Will the Fresh Start Program stop IRS collection actions immediately?

Accepted Answer

The IRS suspends other collection activities while they consider your application, but this protection doesn't start until we formally submit your request and it's accepted for processing. That's why getting professional representation quickly is crucial. Once we contact the IRS on your behalf and submit the appropriate forms, collection actions like wage garnishments and bank levies typically stop within days or weeks. The IRS generally won't file new tax liens unless you owe more than $10,000, providing additional protection. However, interest and penalties continue accumulating until your case is fully resolved. The sooner we start the process, the less you'll ultimately owe. Don't wait for collection actions to escalate—early intervention always produces better outcomes and lower total costs.

Question 4

Can I apply for the IRS Fresh Start Program myself without professional help?

Accepted Answer

There is no single Fresh Start application. Instead, you apply for the specific relief program you need. Technically, you can attempt this yourself, but qualifying involves navigating complex eligibility criteria and may require guidance from a tax professional. The IRS generally approves an offer when the amount represents the most they can expect to collect within a reasonable period. Calculating this "reasonable collection potential" requires understanding IRS formulas, allowable expenses, and asset valuations that most taxpayers don't know. Would you go to court without a lawyer? Then why would you go before the IRS without a trusted tax professional? The stakes are too high, and one mistake can cost you thousands in missed opportunities or rejected applications. Professional representation typically pays for itself through better outcomes and faster resolution.

Question 5

What happens if my Fresh Start Program application gets rejected?

Accepted Answer

You may appeal a rejection within 30 days using Form 13711, and the IRS Independent Office of Appeals offers additional assistance. Rejection doesn't mean you're out of options—it often means the application wasn't properly prepared or presented. Common rejection reasons include incomplete financial documentation, unrealistic offer amounts, or failure to demonstrate genuine financial hardship. Your non-refundable payments and fees are applied to the tax liability, so you don't lose that money, but you'll need to explore alternative solutions. We review rejected applications to identify exactly why they failed, then either appeal with additional documentation or pivot to different relief options like installment agreements or Currently Not Collectible status. Having professional representation from the start dramatically reduces rejection rates and ensures all alternatives are properly explored.

Question 6

How much can I actually save through the IRS Fresh Start Program?

Accepted Answer

An Offer in Compromise lets you settle your tax debt for less than you owe, and savings vary widely based on your financial situation. Some clients achieve 70-90% reductions in total debt, while others benefit more from penalty abatements or affordable payment plans. Under the new program, the IRS now looks at only one year of future income for offers paid in five or fewer months, and two years for offers paid in six to 24 months. This change from the previous four to five-year calculation often results in significantly lower settlement amounts. The exact savings depend on your income, expenses, assets, and ability to pay. That's why we provide free consultations to calculate realistic expectations for your specific situation. 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.

IRS Fresh Start Program La Anna, PA