Question 1

How quickly can you stop an IRS wage garnishment?

Accepted Answer

We can typically stop wage garnishments within 24-48 hours of being retained. The key is immediate action - once we file the proper paperwork with the IRS showing we represent you, they're required to halt collection activities while we negotiate.

However, timing depends on when your employer receives the garnishment order and when we can get our representation documents processed. If your employer has already started garnishing your wages, we work to get those funds released as part of your overall resolution.

The important thing is not to wait. Every day you delay means more money coming out of your paycheck that could stay in your bank account.

Question 2

What's the difference between an installment agreement and an Offer in Compromise?

Accepted Answer

An installment agreement means you pay your full tax debt over time in monthly payments. The IRS will work with you on the payment amount, but you still owe everything plus interest. This works well if you can afford the payments and want to pay off the debt completely.

An Offer in Compromise lets you settle your tax debt for less than you owe - sometimes significantly less. But you have to prove you can't pay the full amount due to financial hardship or other qualifying circumstances. The IRS is very strict about who qualifies.

We analyze your specific situation to determine which option saves you the most money. Sometimes a payment plan is better. Sometimes we can get you an offer that settles everything for a fraction of what you owe. Each case is different.

Question 3

Can you help with Pennsylvania state tax problems too?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we handle both IRS and Pennsylvania Department of Revenue issues. Many Fortenia residents have problems with both federal and state taxes, especially if they've fallen behind on multiple years of filings.

Pennsylvania can be just as aggressive as the IRS with collections. They can garnish wages, seize bank accounts, and place liens on your property. The good news is that many of the same resolution strategies that work with the IRS also work with the state.

We negotiate payment plans, penalty abatements, and settlements with PA just like we do with the federal government. Having one team handle both saves you time and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

Question 4

How much do tax resolution services cost?

Accepted Answer

Our fees depend on the complexity of your case and how much work is required to resolve it. A simple payment plan setup costs less than a complex Offer in Compromise with multiple years of unfiled returns.

We provide a clear fee quote upfront after reviewing your situation. No surprises or hidden costs. Many clients find that our fees are a fraction of what they save in reduced penalties, interest, and negotiated settlements.

Most importantly, we don't charge anything until we start working on your case. We want you to understand exactly what we're doing and what it costs before you commit to anything.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns are actually very common, and they're completely fixable. The IRS requires you to be current on all filings before they'll negotiate any resolution, so getting those returns filed is always our first priority.

We can prepare and file all your missing returns quickly. Often, you'll owe less than you think because you're entitled to deductions and credits you didn't claim. Sometimes people actually get refunds on years they thought they owed money.

Once you're current on filings, we can negotiate the best possible resolution for whatever you do owe. The key is handling everything in the right order so you don't miss out on any opportunities to reduce your debt.

Question 6

How long does the tax resolution process take?

Accepted Answer

Simple cases like payment plan setups can be resolved in 30-60 days. More complex cases involving Offers in Compromise or multiple years of problems can take 6-12 months or longer.

The timeline depends on several factors: how quickly you provide required documentation, how backed up the IRS is in processing cases, and whether they request additional information during review.

What we can control is staying on top of your case and responding immediately to any IRS requests. What you can control is getting us the information we need promptly. The sooner we have everything, the sooner we can get you resolved and back to normal life.

Tax Resolution Fortenia, PA