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 taxes, penalties, and interest, are current on all required tax filings, and can demonstrate financial hardship. Self-employed individuals may qualify by showing a 25% or more income drop. The key is proving genuine financial hardship. We review your income, expenses, assets, and monthly obligations to determine which options work for your situation. Some programs require owing $60,000 or less with proven hardship, so eligibility varies by relief type. During your free consultation, we'll assess your specific circumstances and explain exactly which Fresh Start options you qualify for.

Question 2

Can the Fresh Start Program eliminate my entire tax debt?

Accepted Answer

The IRS may accept 10% to 20% of your debt through an Offer in Compromise if you truly cannot afford the full amount. Complete elimination is rare and depends entirely on your financial circumstances. The Fresh Start program is designed to make paying back taxes easier, not necessarily to reduce your bill. Most people benefit from manageable payment plans, penalty relief, or partial debt reduction. We'll be completely honest about what's realistic during your consultation. No false promises - just real solutions based on your actual situation.

Question 3

How long does the Fresh Start application process take?

Accepted Answer

IRS review can take several months, especially for Offers in Compromise. Most cases resolve in two to six months on average, though complex cases involving business taxes may take longer. Installment Agreements can last up to 72 months for repayment, while Offers in Compromise typically resolve within months once approved. The important thing is collection actions usually stop once you're approved for relief. You get immediate protection while we negotiate your final resolution. Time varies, but relief starts quickly.

Question 4

What happens if I miss payments on my agreement?

Accepted Answer

Missing payments can cause default, reinstated collection actions, or canceled agreements. Direct debit prevents missed payments, which is why we help all clients set up automatic payments. If you miss a payment, contact us immediately. Sometimes the IRS reinstates agreements if you show reasonable cause and get current quickly. Repeated defaults make future negotiations much harder. Direct debit payments reduce default risk significantly, so we strongly recommend this option. It protects your agreement and gives you peace of mind.

Question 5

Should I try handling Fresh Start myself or hire professionals?

Accepted Answer

Many taxpayers unknowingly disqualify themselves through avoidable mistakes like unfiled returns, ignored notices, underreported income, or waiting too long. Tax resolution requires specialized credentials, knowledge, and experience. Would you go to court without a lawyer? Of course not. Then why face the IRS without a trusted tax professional? We've seen countless cases where people miss out on relief simply because they don't understand the process. The IRS has teams of trained professionals working against you. You should have experts working for you. Our expertise typically saves clients far more than our fees cost.

Question 6

How much does professional Fresh Start help cost?

Accepted Answer

The IRS Fresh Start Program itself is free, but there are application fees for some options and costs for professional help. IRS fees include $205 for Offers in Compromise, though low-income taxpayers may qualify for waivers. Professional fees depend on your case complexity and which options we pursue. Most tax resolution services range from $2,000 to $7,000, but consider this against potential savings. We provide free consultations and transparent pricing upfront. Many clients find our fees are a small fraction of what they save through successful resolution. 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 Tyler Hill, PA