Question 1

How much will it cost to resolve my tax debt in Wilkes-Barre?

Accepted Answer

The cost depends on the complexity of your case and which resolution option works best for your situation. Simple cases like setting up payment plans typically cost less than complex offers in compromise.

We provide a free consultation where we'll review your specific situation and give you an exact quote upfront. There are no surprises or hidden fees. If you decide to hire us, we credit 100% of your consultation fee toward your resolution work.

Most clients find that our fees are a fraction of what they save in penalties, interest, and reduced tax debt. The key is acting quickly - the longer you wait, the more expensive your tax problem becomes.

Question 2

Can you really get the IRS to accept less than I owe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through the IRS Offer in Compromise program, but only if you qualify. The IRS will accept less than you owe if paying the full amount would create financial hardship or if there's doubt about whether you actually owe the full amount.

About 26% of offers in compromise are accepted nationally, but experienced tax professionals have much higher success rates because they know exactly how to prepare and present your case. We only recommend an offer in compromise if we believe you have a strong chance of success.

If you don't qualify for an offer in compromise, we'll find another solution that works for your situation, like an installment agreement or getting you classified as currently not collectible.

Question 3

What happens if the IRS is already garnishing my wages?

Accepted Answer

We can often get wage garnishments released quickly while we work on a permanent solution to your tax debt. The IRS is usually willing to stop garnishments if you're working with a professional to resolve your case.

Time is critical with wage garnishments because they can take up to 70% of your paycheck, making it impossible to pay your basic living expenses. We typically contact the IRS immediately to request a garnishment release while we prepare your case.

Once we have a resolution in place - whether it's a payment plan, offer in compromise, or other arrangement - the garnishment stops permanently. The key is getting professional help quickly before the garnishment destroys your ability to support your family.

Question 4

How long does the tax resolution process take in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

Simple cases like installment agreements can often be resolved in 30-60 days. More complex cases like offers in compromise typically take 6-12 months, sometimes longer if the IRS requests additional documentation.

The timeline depends on several factors: how quickly you provide required documentation, how backed up the IRS is, and whether there are any complications with your case. We keep you informed throughout the process so you always know where things stand.

What's important is that once we're representing you, the IRS collection actions typically stop while we're working on your resolution. This gives you breathing room and protection while we negotiate the best possible outcome for your situation.

Question 5

Do I really need professional help or can I handle this myself?

Accepted Answer

You can try to handle it yourself, but most people find the process overwhelming and make costly mistakes. The IRS procedures are complex, and saying the wrong thing can hurt your case.

Tax professionals know exactly which programs you qualify for and how to present your case in the best possible light. We also know how to deal with IRS agents and can often get better results than you could achieve on your own.

Consider this: if you owe $50,000 and we can get it reduced to $10,000, our fee is a small fraction of what you save. Plus, you get peace of mind knowing everything is handled correctly and you won't make mistakes that could cost you thousands.

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

Unfiled returns are actually one of the most common problems we handle, and they're often easier to resolve than people think. The IRS can't properly assess your tax debt until all required returns are filed.

We'll prepare and file all your missing returns, often finding deductions and credits that reduce what you owe significantly. Sometimes people are surprised to discover they're actually due refunds for some years.

Once all returns are filed, we can then work on resolving any remaining tax debt through payment plans, offers in compromise, or other resolution options. The key is getting compliant first, then dealing with any debt that remains.

Tax Resolution Wilkes-Barre, PA