Question 1

How long does tax resolution take in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

Most tax resolution cases in Pennsylvania take between 3-6 months to complete, depending on the complexity of your situation and which resolution option works best for you. Simple Installment Agreements can often be set up within 30-60 days.

Offers in Compromise typically take longer - usually 4-8 months - because the IRS requires extensive financial documentation and review. However, once we submit your case, collection actions generally stop while it's being processed.

The timeline also depends on how quickly you can provide the necessary documentation and whether you have unfiled returns that need to be prepared first. We work efficiently to move your case forward as quickly as possible while ensuring everything is done correctly.

Question 2

Can I qualify for Pennsylvania's Tax Forgiveness program?

Accepted Answer

Pennsylvania's Tax Forgiveness program is available to residents whose income falls below certain thresholds based on family size and marital status. You must file a PA-40 return and complete Schedule SP to apply.

The program can provide either a partial or complete refund of your Pennsylvania income tax liability. If you qualify for 100% forgiveness, you can even arrange to stop having state taxes withheld from your paycheck.

However, this program only applies to Pennsylvania state income tax, not federal tax debt or other state tax obligations. If you owe money to multiple tax authorities, you'll need comprehensive resolution that addresses all your tax problems, not just the state portion.

Question 3

What happens if the IRS has already placed a lien on my property?

Accepted Answer

A federal tax lien gives the IRS a legal claim against your property, but it doesn't mean they'll immediately seize your assets. The lien primarily affects your credit and your ability to sell or refinance property.

We can work to get your lien released through several methods. If we negotiate a full payment or an Offer in Compromise that's accepted, the lien is typically released within 30 days. For Installment Agreements, we may be able to get a lien withdrawal if you meet certain criteria.

In some cases, we can also request a lien subordination, which allows you to refinance or sell property even with the lien in place. The key is addressing the underlying tax debt through proper resolution rather than just trying to deal with the lien itself.

Question 4

How much will tax resolution services cost me?

Accepted Answer

Our fees depend on the complexity of your case and which resolution strategy we pursue. Simple cases with straightforward Installment Agreements typically cost less than complex Offers in Compromise that require extensive financial analysis.

We provide a clear fee structure upfront so you know exactly what to expect. If you decide to engage our services after your consultation, we credit 100% of your consultation fee toward your resolution work.

Most clients find that our fees are a small fraction of what they save in penalties, interest, and reduced tax liability. When you consider the cost of continued collection actions, wage garnishments, and the stress of dealing with the IRS alone, professional representation is often the most cost-effective solution.

Question 5

Will the IRS stop collection actions while you work on my case?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. When we formally represent you and begin negotiations with the IRS, active collection efforts typically pause. This includes stopping wage garnishments, bank levies, and asset seizures while we work toward resolution.

For Offers in Compromise, collection actions are automatically suspended once your offer is submitted and deemed processable. This gives you breathing room while the IRS reviews your financial situation and considers your settlement proposal.

However, the IRS won't wait indefinitely. If you don't respond to their requests for information or if negotiations stall, collection actions can resume. That's why it's crucial to work with experienced professionals who know how to keep your case moving forward and maintain protection from collection activities.

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns are actually more common than you might think, especially for people who are self-employed or have had major life changes. The good news is that this situation is completely fixable, but it requires immediate action.

We start by determining which years need to be filed and gathering the necessary documentation. For missing W-2s or 1099s, we can request wage and income transcripts directly from the IRS. We then prepare and file all delinquent returns to bring you into compliance.

Once your returns are filed, we can pursue the appropriate resolution for any tax debt that results. In some cases, you may even be entitled to refunds for certain years that will offset what you owe for other years. The key is getting compliant first, then addressing the total tax liability through negotiation with the IRS.

Tax Resolution Indian Point, PA