Question 1

How quickly can you stop an IRS wage garnishment in Blakely, PA?

Accepted Answer

We can typically stop a wage garnishment within 24-48 hours of being hired. The key is acting fast and filing the right paperwork immediately.

When the IRS garnishes your wages, they're required to leave you with a basic living allowance, but it's often not enough to cover your actual expenses. We'll contact the IRS directly and request an immediate release of the levy while we work on a permanent solution.

In many cases, we can get the garnishment released by proposing an installment agreement or demonstrating financial hardship. The IRS would rather have you making regular payments than struggling to survive on a garnished income.

Question 2

What's the difference between a tax lien and tax levy in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

A tax lien is the government's legal claim on your property, while a levy is when they actually take your property or money. Think of a lien as a warning and a levy as the action.

When the IRS files a tax lien, it becomes public record and affects your credit score. It also prevents you from selling property or getting loans until the tax debt is resolved. A lien doesn't take your property - it just gives the government first rights to it.

A levy is much more serious. The IRS can levy your bank accounts, garnish your wages, or even seize and sell your property. Levies happen after liens and usually after multiple notices. That's why it's crucial to address tax problems before they escalate to the levy stage.

Question 3

Can I qualify for an offer in compromise if I live in Blakely, PA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Pennsylvania residents can qualify for offers in compromise, but the IRS has strict requirements. You need to prove you can't pay the full amount owed and that the offer represents the most they can reasonably expect to collect.

The IRS looks at your income, expenses, asset equity, and future earning potential. If you have significant assets or high income, you probably won't qualify. But if you're facing genuine financial hardship, an offer in compromise might reduce your tax debt to just pennies on the dollar.

We analyze your complete financial picture before recommending an offer in compromise. If you don't qualify, we'll find other solutions like installment agreements or currently not collectible status that still provide real relief.

Question 4

How much does tax resolution cost for Blakely, PA residents?

Accepted Answer

Our fees depend on the complexity of your case, not the amount you owe. Simple cases like setting up payment plans cost less than complex negotiations or audit representation.

We provide upfront pricing after reviewing your situation, so there are no surprises. Most clients find our fees are a fraction of what they save in penalties, interest, and reduced tax debt. We also offer payment plans to make our services affordable.

Remember, the cost of doing nothing is usually much higher. Penalties and interest compound daily, and the IRS has powerful collection tools that can cost you far more than professional representation. We focus on getting you the best possible outcome while keeping costs reasonable.

Question 5

What happens if I haven't filed tax returns for several years?

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns are one of the most serious tax problems you can have. The IRS can file substitute returns for you, and they never work in your favor. They don't include deductions, exemptions, or credits you're entitled to.

We'll prepare and file all missing returns, often reducing your tax debt significantly compared to what the IRS calculated. In many cases, clients actually get refunds for some years once we file proper returns with all their deductions.

The key is getting compliant quickly. The IRS won't negotiate any resolution until you're current with all required filings. We can usually prepare several years of returns quickly and get you back in good standing so we can start working on reducing your overall tax debt.

Question 6

Do you handle Pennsylvania state tax problems too?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Pennsylvania can be just as aggressive as the IRS when collecting unpaid taxes. They file liens, garnish wages, and levy bank accounts just like the federal government.

We work with the PA Department of Revenue on all types of state tax issues - personal income tax, business taxes, sales tax, and payroll tax problems. Pennsylvania also has its own offer in compromise program and payment plan options.

Many of our Blakely, PA clients have both federal and state tax problems. We handle everything together, so you don't need separate representation. This coordinated approach often leads to better overall outcomes and saves you time and money dealing with multiple tax authorities.

Tax Resolution Blakely, PA