Question 1

How quickly can you stop an IRS levy on my wages or bank account?

Accepted Answer

We can often get levy releases within 24-48 hours of being retained, depending on your specific situation. The key is acting fast—once we have your power of attorney signed, we immediately contact the IRS to request a levy release while we work on your permanent resolution.

For wage garnishments, we typically see releases within one to two pay periods. Bank levies can be more complex because banks are required to hold funds for 21 days before sending them to the IRS. If we catch it during that holding period, we can often get your money back.

The most important thing is not to wait. Every day a levy remains in place costs you money and stress. Contact us immediately if you receive any levy notices, and we'll start the release process right away.

Question 2

What's the difference between federal and Pennsylvania state tax resolution options?

Accepted Answer

Federal tax resolution offers more flexibility and options than Pennsylvania state programs. The IRS provides payment plans up to 72 months, Offer in Compromise programs, and Currently Not Collectible status for financial hardship cases. Federal plans also have lower setup fees and more reasonable payment amounts.

Pennsylvania's Department of Revenue is much stricter. They typically require 20% down payments, limit payment plans to just five months, and have fewer hardship options available. The state also moves to collection actions much faster than the IRS, often within 90 days of the initial notice.

However, we can often negotiate better terms than the standard state requirements, especially if you have both federal and state tax debt. Having professional representation makes a significant difference in what Pennsylvania will accept, and we know exactly how to present your case for the best possible outcome.

Question 3

How much does tax resolution cost and how do payment plans work?

Accepted Answer

Our fees depend on the complexity of your case and which resolution options we pursue. We offer affordable payment plans because we understand you're already dealing with financial stress from your tax debt. Most clients can spread our fees over several months while we work on their case.

Here's what makes us different: we credit 100% of your consultation fee toward your resolution work if you decide to hire us. This means you're not paying extra just to find out what your options are. You'll know exactly what everything costs before you commit to anything.

We're also transparent about what you can expect to pay the IRS or state. Some companies promise unrealistic settlements just to get your business. We give you honest assessments of what's actually possible based on your specific financial situation and tax debt amount.

Question 4

Can you really settle my tax debt for less than what I owe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only if you qualify for specific IRS programs like Offer in Compromise. The IRS will accept less than the full amount if you can prove you can't pay the full debt, or if paying it would create financial hardship. However, qualification requirements are strict and the process is complex.

The IRS looks at your income, expenses, assets, and future earning potential to determine what you can realistically pay. If your offer amount equals or exceeds what they calculate you could pay over time, they'll likely accept it. But if you have significant assets or earning capacity, you probably won't qualify for a reduced settlement.

We thoroughly analyze your financial situation before recommending an Offer in Compromise. If you don't qualify, we'll find other solutions like payment plans or Currently Not Collectible status. Our goal is getting you the best possible outcome based on your actual circumstances, not false promises about settlements that won't be accepted.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns are actually one of the most serious tax problems you can have, but they're also completely fixable. The IRS can file substitute returns for you, but these are always calculated in their favor with no deductions or credits you're entitled to. This often creates much larger tax debts than you actually owe.

We start by getting all your missing returns filed with the correct income and all allowable deductions. This often reduces your tax debt significantly compared to what the IRS calculated. Once your returns are current, we can then work on resolving any remaining balance through payment plans or other programs.

The key is getting compliant as quickly as possible. The IRS won't negotiate any resolution options until all required returns are filed. We can usually prepare several years of back returns within a few weeks, which stops the IRS from taking more aggressive collection actions and opens up all your resolution options.

Question 6

How do I know if I should try to handle this myself or hire professionals?

Accepted Answer

If you owe less than $10,000 and can afford to pay it within 12-24 months, you might be able to set up a simple payment plan online. But if you're facing levies, liens, or owe more than you can realistically pay, professional help becomes essential. The stakes are too high to risk making mistakes.

Tax resolution involves complex negotiations, detailed financial analysis, and extensive paperwork. One wrong move can result in rejected offers, defaulted payment plans, or worse collection actions. The IRS doesn't give second chances on most programs, so you need to get it right the first time.

Consider this: we often save clients more in reduced penalties, better payment terms, and faster resolutions than our fees cost. Plus, you get the peace of mind that comes from knowing qualified professionals are handling every detail of your case while you focus on getting your life back on track.

Tax Resolution Carbondale, PA