Question 1

How quickly can you stop an IRS wage garnishment in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

We can typically stop an IRS wage garnishment within 24-48 hours of being retained, sometimes even faster in emergency situations. The key is acting immediately when you receive that first garnishment notice. We file the appropriate paperwork with the IRS and your employer to halt the garnishment while we negotiate a more reasonable payment arrangement.

The process involves submitting a Collection Due Process hearing request or negotiating an immediate installment agreement, depending on your specific situation. We've stopped hundreds of garnishments for Pennsylvania taxpayers, and we know exactly which approach works fastest for each type of case. Don't wait – every day you delay means more money taken from your paycheck.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

An Offer in Compromise allows you to settle your tax debt for less than you owe, sometimes significantly less. However, you must prove to the IRS that you either can't pay the full amount or that paying it would create genuine financial hardship. The IRS looks at your assets, income, expenses, and future earning potential to determine what you can realistically pay.

An installment agreement, on the other hand, lets you pay your full tax debt over time in monthly payments. This is often easier to qualify for, but you'll pay the entire amount plus interest. We analyze your financial situation to determine which option gives you the best outcome. Sometimes we can negotiate an installment agreement first to stop collection actions, then later pursue an Offer in Compromise if your financial situation supports it.

Question 3

Can you help with both federal and Pennsylvania state tax problems?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we handle both federal IRS issues and Pennsylvania state tax problems. Many taxpayers don't realize that state tax agencies can be just as aggressive as the IRS when it comes to collection actions. Pennsylvania can garnish wages, levy bank accounts, and place liens on property just like the federal government.

We work with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue regularly and understand their specific procedures and settlement programs. Often, resolving federal tax issues helps with state problems too, since many state tax calculations are based on your federal return. We coordinate between agencies when necessary to ensure you get the most comprehensive resolution possible. This is especially important for Pennsylvania taxpayers because the state has its own unique tax laws and collection procedures that require specialized knowledge.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Unfiled tax returns are actually a criminal matter, not just a civil tax debt issue. The IRS can prosecute taxpayers for willful failure to file, and while prosecution is rare, it does happen. More commonly, the IRS will file substitute returns for you using only the income information they have, which usually results in much higher tax bills than if you had filed yourself.

We handle unfiled returns as a priority because getting compliant is essential for any other tax resolution options. We prepare all missing returns, often finding deductions and credits that significantly reduce what you owe. We also know how to present your case to the IRS to minimize penalties and avoid criminal referral. The key is acting quickly – the longer you wait, the more complicated and expensive the resolution becomes.

Question 5

How much do tax resolution services cost in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

Our fees depend on the complexity of your case and the type of resolution we're pursuing. Simple installment agreements cost less than complex Offer in Compromise cases that require extensive financial analysis and negotiation. We provide clear, upfront pricing during your free consultation so you know exactly what to expect.

Most clients find that our fees are a fraction of what they save through penalty reduction, interest abatement, and negotiated settlements. We also offer payment plans for our services because we understand you're already facing financial pressure. The important thing to remember is that doing nothing costs far more than getting professional help. IRS penalties and interest compound quickly, and collection actions can cost you thousands in garnished wages and seized assets.

Question 6

What should I do if I receive an IRS notice in the mail?

Accepted Answer

Never ignore an IRS notice – they don't go away, and the problem always gets worse if you don't respond. The type of notice determines how urgent your situation is and what options you have available. Some notices are just informational, while others start the clock ticking on serious collection actions.

Read the notice carefully to understand what the IRS is claiming and what deadlines you're facing. Most notices give you 30 days to respond, but some collection notices give you much less time. Contact us immediately if you receive any notice about wage garnishment, bank levy, or intent to seize assets. We can often resolve the issue before it escalates, but timing is critical. The earlier you get professional help, the more options we have to protect you and negotiate a favorable resolution.

Tax Resolution Pond Eddy, PA