Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The reduction depends on your specific financial situation and which relief option you qualify for. Through an Offer in Compromise, eligible taxpayers can settle for as little as 10% of what they owe.Penalty Abatement can remove all failure-to-pay and failure-to-file penalties, which often represent 25-50% of your total debt. Even if you don't qualify for debt reduction, installment agreements can stop penalties and interest from growing while you pay off the balance.The key is having someone who knows how to present your case properly. The IRS approves about 40% of Offers in Compromise when they're prepared correctly, but rejects over 90% of those filed without professional help.

Question 2

What happens if the IRS is already garnishing my wages?

Accepted Answer

We can often stop wage garnishment quickly by negotiating an alternative payment arrangement. The IRS would rather have a guaranteed monthly payment than deal with the administrative hassle of garnishing wages.Once we establish a payment plan or get you into Currently Not Collectible status, the garnishment stops immediately. If you qualify for an Offer in Compromise, that also halts all collection activity while we negotiate.Time is critical here. The longer a garnishment continues, the more difficult your financial situation becomes. But even if it's been going on for months, we can usually resolve it within days of taking your case.

Question 3

Do I qualify for the Fresh Start Program if I owe state taxes too?

Accepted Answer

Yes, federal and state tax problems often go hand in hand, and we handle both. The IRS Fresh Start Program specifically addresses federal tax debt, but Pennsylvania has its own relief options for state taxes.We coordinate both cases to ensure you get maximum relief. Sometimes resolving the federal issue first gives you breathing room to address state taxes. Other times, we work both simultaneously.The important thing is having one team handle everything. Mixed messages between different representatives can derail negotiations and cost you thousands in additional penalties and interest.

Question 4

How long does the Fresh Start Program application process take?

Accepted Answer

Simple payment plans can be approved within days. More complex cases like Offers in Compromise typically take 6-12 months for the IRS to review and approve.However, once we submit your application, collection activity stops. No more threatening letters, no new liens or levies. You get immediate relief while we work toward a permanent solution.We keep you updated throughout the process and handle all communication with the IRS. Most clients tell us the peace of mind starts the day we take their case, long before the final resolution.

Question 5

What if I can't afford to pay anything right now?

Accepted Answer

That's exactly what Currently Not Collectible status is for. If paying any amount would create financial hardship, the IRS will temporarily stop all collection activity.This isn't just a delay—it's legitimate relief that can last years if your financial situation doesn't improve. During this time, the 10-year collection statute continues to run, meaning your debt could eventually expire.We analyze your income, expenses, and assets to determine if you qualify. If you do, we get you into this status quickly and help you stay there as long as necessary.

Question 6

Why shouldn't I just try to handle this 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 teams of trained negotiators whose job is to collect as much as possible. They know every rule, every deadline, and every way to maximize what you pay. Going in alone is like bringing a knife to a gunfight.Professional representation levels the playing field. We know the same rules they do, plus we understand how to present your case for maximum relief. The difference in outcome often pays for our fees many times over.End the sleepless nights. Call 570-630-0201 or book online today. All County Tax Resolution will stand between you and the IRS, negotiate the lowest legal settlement, and give you the fresh start you deserve.

IRS Fresh Start Program Paupack, PA