Question 1

How quickly can you stop IRS wage garnishment in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

We can typically halt wage garnishments within 24-48 hours of taking your case, depending on when we receive your complete financial information. The IRS is required to release a wage garnishment when we file certain collection appeals or demonstrate financial hardship.

However, stopping the garnishment is just the first step. We then work to negotiate a permanent solution so the garnishment doesn't restart. This might involve setting up an installment agreement, filing an offer in compromise, or proving you're currently not collectible.

The key is acting quickly. Every day you wait is another day of reduced paychecks and increased financial stress for your family.

Question 2

What's the difference between tax settlement and payment plans?

Accepted Answer

A tax settlement (offer in compromise) reduces the total amount you owe to the IRS. You pay less than the full debt, and the IRS forgives the rest. This option requires proving you can't pay the full amount based on your assets, income, and future earning potential.

Payment plans (installment agreements) let you pay the full debt over time in monthly payments. The IRS may reduce or eliminate penalties and interest, but you still pay the original tax debt. This works better for people who can afford monthly payments but can't pay the lump sum.

Most people assume they need to pay everything they owe, but many South Auburn residents qualify for significant debt reductions through offers in compromise. We analyze both options to determine which saves you more money.

Question 3

Can the IRS really take my house for back taxes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the IRS can seize your home for unpaid taxes, but it's typically their last resort. They prefer easier collection methods like wage garnishments and bank levies first. However, if you owe substantial back taxes and ignore IRS notices, property seizure becomes a real possibility.

The IRS must follow specific procedures before seizing your home, including sending multiple notices and providing opportunities to resolve the debt. They also must determine that the seizure is in the government's best interest, considering factors like your equity in the property and the cost of the seizure process.

The good news is that most tax debt situations can be resolved before reaching the seizure stage. Even if you've received a final notice of intent to levy, we can often negotiate a solution that protects your home while resolving your tax debt.

Question 4

How much does tax resolution cost compared to what I owe?

Accepted Answer

Professional tax resolution typically costs a fraction of what you'll save in reduced debt, eliminated penalties, and stopped collection actions. Most clients save thousands of dollars more than they pay in professional fees, especially when we negotiate offers in compromise or penalty abatements.

The cost varies based on the complexity of your case and the amount you owe. Simple cases might cost a few thousand dollars, while complex business tax issues require more work. We provide transparent pricing upfront, so you know exactly what you're paying before we start.

Consider this: wage garnishments can take 15-25% of your paycheck indefinitely. Bank levies can empty your accounts without warning. The cost of professional representation is usually recovered in the first few months of stopped collection actions alone.

Question 5

What happens if I try to negotiate with the IRS myself?

Accepted Answer

The IRS allows taxpayers to represent themselves, but it's rarely advisable for significant tax debt. IRS agents are trained negotiators who know exactly which questions to ask and which options to offer. They're not trying to get you the best deal - they're trying to collect as much as possible.

Most people who try to handle their own tax resolution end up with payment plans they can't afford or miss opportunities for debt reduction. They also make statements that hurt their case or agree to terms without understanding the long-term consequences.

Professional representation levels the playing field. We know which resolution options you qualify for, how to present your case effectively, and what documentation the IRS needs to approve your request. We also protect you from saying anything that could harm your case during negotiations.

Question 6

How long does the tax resolution process take in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

Simple cases like installment agreements can be resolved in 30-60 days. More complex cases involving offers in compromise or appeals can take 6-12 months or longer. The timeline depends on your specific situation, the amount you owe, and how quickly you provide required documentation.

However, we typically stop immediate collection actions within the first few weeks of taking your case. This means wage garnishments, bank levies, and other IRS collection activities are halted while we work on your permanent resolution.

The IRS has specific timeframes they must follow for reviewing different types of resolution requests. We use these requirements to your advantage, ensuring your case moves through the system as quickly as possible while maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Tax Resolution South Auburn, PA