Question 1

How much does the IRS Fresh Start Program actually cost me?

Accepted Answer

The IRS Fresh Start Program itself is free—it's a government initiative, not a private company service. You don't pay the IRS extra to participate. However, you'll likely want professional help navigating the application process. Our consultation fee gets credited 100% toward your resolution work if you engage our services. Most people find that professional representation more than pays for itself through better outcomes and avoided mistakes. DIY applications get rejected at much higher rates, and a rejection can make your situation worse. The real cost is what happens if you don't act. Penalties and interest compound daily. Collection actions can seize your wages, bank accounts, even your home. Getting professional help now costs far less than dealing with years of continued IRS problems.

Question 2

Will I actually qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program?

Accepted Answer

Most taxpayers with legitimate financial hardship can qualify for some form of Fresh Start relief. The basic requirements are owing $50,000 or less in combined taxes, penalties, and interest, being current on all required tax filings, and demonstrating that paying in full would create economic hardship. If you're self-employed and your income dropped 25% or more, you get special consideration. If you're single with income under $100,000 or married with household income under $200,000, you're in the target range for many Fresh Start options. The key is presenting your case correctly. The IRS receives thousands of applications, and they reject most that don't meet their specific documentation requirements. We know exactly what they're looking for and how to position your situation for approval.

Question 3

How long does the Fresh Start Program process take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline varies by the type of relief you're seeking and how complex your case is. Streamlined installment agreements can be approved in 30-45 days if all paperwork is correct. Offers in compromise typically take 6-12 months because the IRS does extensive financial review. Currently-not-collectible status can be granted relatively quickly if you clearly meet the hardship criteria. Penalty abatement requests usually get decided within 60-90 days. The biggest factor is having everything prepared correctly upfront. Incomplete applications get rejected, and then you're starting over. Missing documentation requests can add months to the process. We make sure everything is complete and accurate from day one, which speeds up your approval significantly.

Question 4

What happens if the IRS rejects my Fresh Start application?

Accepted Answer

Rejection isn't the end of the road, but it does make things more complicated. You can appeal most IRS decisions, but you need to act quickly—usually within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice. The most common reasons for rejection are incomplete financial documentation, mathematical errors on forms, or not meeting the specific criteria for the type of relief requested. Sometimes the IRS counter-offers with different terms than what you originally requested. This is exactly why professional representation matters. We know how to avoid the common mistakes that lead to rejections. If something does get rejected, we know the appeals process and can often get decisions reversed or negotiate alternative solutions. Going it alone after a rejection usually makes your situation worse.

Question 5

Can the Fresh Start Program stop IRS wage garnishment immediately?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it depends on which Fresh Start option you use and how quickly you act. Installing an installment agreement typically stops wage garnishments within 30 days of approval. Offers in compromise can halt collection actions while your application is being reviewed. If you're facing immediate wage garnishment, we can often get a temporary hold on collection actions by demonstrating that you're actively pursuing Fresh Start relief. The IRS would rather work with taxpayers who are trying to resolve their debt than continue expensive collection efforts. Currently-not-collectible status stops all collection actions immediately if approved, including wage garnishments, bank levies, and asset seizure. The key is acting before the garnishment starts—it's much easier to prevent than to reverse once it's in place.

Question 6

Is the IRS Fresh Start Program different from tax settlement companies?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The IRS Fresh Start Program is an official government initiative created by the Internal Revenue Service. It's not a private company or a scam—it's legitimate federal policy designed to help taxpayers manage debt. However, many companies advertise "Fresh Start" services, and some are legitimate while others are not. The real program has specific qualification requirements and application procedures. Scam companies often promise unrealistic results or charge upfront fees for services they can't actually deliver. We help you navigate the actual IRS Fresh Start Program using official government forms and procedures. We don't make false promises about "settling pennies on the dollar" for everyone. We evaluate your real situation and pursue the relief options that actually make sense for your circumstances.

IRS Fresh Start Program Pocono Pines, PA