Why Do I Owe Taxes
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Why Do I Owe Taxes This Year?

There are many reasons why you might owe the Internal Revenue Service this year. It’s certainly possible to owe taxes even when you have withheld money from your paycheck all year.

Why Do I Owe Taxes?

Because everyone’s situation is unique, there are several different reasons why you may owe money on your taxes. A few common reasons are outlined below.

1. Failing To File

Failure to file on time is a common reason why you’ll end up owing taxes. State tax dues will vary. Whenever you file late and don’t apply for an extension on time, you can incur late fees and interests that will increase your tax bill. If you are wondering why you still owe taxes this year, it’s certainly possible that you submitted a tax return after the due date.

2. Not Withholding Enough From Your Paycheck

The amount that’s taken out of your paycheck each year is an estimate of what you will owe when it comes time to file taxes. You will receive a tax refund if you overpay. If you do not pay enough throughout the year, though, you will end up with a bill come tax season.

3. Tax Code Changes

Recent tax code changes will undoubtedly impact how much you’ll owe in taxes. If you expect to receive a refund each season, it may not be the case with new tax laws put in place. When the IRS updated its tax brackets, it’s possible you were put into a new category, altogether.

4. Changes In Deductions

If you didn’t qualify for typical deductions and credits you expected, then you may owe taxes this year. For instance, the earned income tax credit comes with annual limits. If you have made more money this year than in previous tax years, you may not qualify. Many parents will take advantage of the child tax credit, which comes with income limits and age restrictions.

5. Higher Income

Receiving higher pay this year will mean you are going to pay more in taxes. If you worked more hours while getting paid hourly or a salary gets raised, you could have been bumped into a higher tax bracket.

6. Significant Life Changes

All sorts of life changes can factor into your tax situation. One big change that can raise your tax burden is when your children start to get older. For instance, once your children are 17 years or older, you cannot claim the child tax credit.

While you’re no longer able to claim the child tax credit, you can still claim your children as dependents and claim a few other tax credits on your tax return.

7. You Owe Capital Gains Taxes

If you bought and sold investments for either a profit or loss, which includes anything from single stocks to cryptocurrency, you must report those gains or losses on your tax return.

With a capital gains tax, short-term capital gains are taxed at the normal income tax rate. Long-term gains, however, are taxed at a lower rate.

What To Do If You Owe Taxes

Thankfully, there are numerous options if you cannot pay your entire tax bill when it’s due. Here are a few payment options for you to consider:

  • Sign up for an IRS installment plan.
  • Apply for a full-time agreement if you are able to pay taxes within 120 days.
  • Make an offer in compromise.
  • Consider a loan or other financing options to make tax payments.

It’s crucial to stay informed about your tax obligations and ensure accurate and timely filing and payment of taxes. If you find yourself owing taxes, it’s advisable to address the issue promptly by filing your return or payment, seeking professional tax assistance, or exploring options such as installment agreements, Offer in Compromise, or penalty abatement if you’re unable to pay the full amount owed.

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

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Can The IRS Take Your 401K
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

Can The IRS Take Roth IRA

The IRS generally cannot directly take or seize your Roth IRA, but there are situations where your Roth IRA could be affected if you owe taxes to the IRS. Here’s how it works:

1. IRS Tax Levy:

  • Levies on Financial Assets: The IRS has the power to levy (seize) financial assets, including bank accounts, brokerage accounts, and retirement accounts, to satisfy unpaid tax debts. This includes Roth IRAs.
  • Process: Before levying your assets, the IRS will typically send several notices demanding payment and providing you with opportunities to resolve the debt. If you do not take action, the IRS may issue a levy and seize funds from your Roth IRA.
  • Exemptions: Certain assets may be exempt from IRS levies, but retirement accounts like Roth IRAs are not automatically exempt.

2. Impact of Early Withdrawal:

  • Taxes and Penalties: If the IRS levies your Roth IRA, the amount withdrawn to satisfy the tax debt may be subject to income taxes and, if you are under age 59½, a 10% early withdrawal penalty on the earnings portion of the withdrawal.
  • Order of Withdrawal: Roth IRA withdrawals are generally considered to come first from contributions (which can be withdrawn tax- and penalty-free), then from earnings. The IRS would apply the levy to your account, which could trigger taxes and penalties depending on the amount and source of the funds withdrawn.

3. Avoiding IRS Levies:

  • Payment Plans: If you owe taxes and are concerned about a levy, you can contact the IRS to arrange a payment plan or offer in compromise, which may allow you to pay your tax debt over time or settle for less than the full amount owed.
  • Communication: Promptly addressing IRS notices and seeking professional advice can help you avoid more severe collection actions, such as a levy on your Roth IRA.

4. Bankruptcy Protection:

  • Protection in Bankruptcy: Under certain circumstances, Roth IRAs may be protected from creditors, including the IRS, during bankruptcy proceedings, subject to specific limits and rules under federal bankruptcy law.

5. State Laws:

  • State Protections: Some states offer additional protections for retirement accounts against creditors, including the IRS. These protections vary by state and may limit the IRS’s ability to levy your Roth IRA.

In summary, while the IRS can levy your Roth IRA if you owe back taxes, this typically occurs after multiple notices and opportunities to resolve the debt have been provided. To avoid this, it’s important to address any tax issues promptly and seek professional advice if you are unable to pay your tax debt.

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If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. This family owned tax practice has been serving the public since all the way back in 1977!

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Stimulus Checks In 2022
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

What to Do If You Have Missed The April 2024 Tax Deadline

If you have missed the April 2024 tax deadline, it’s important to take prompt action to minimize any penalties and interest charges. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. File as Soon as Possible

  • File Electronically: Use e-file to submit your tax return. Filing electronically is faster and more efficient than mailing a paper return.
  • Free File Programs: If you qualify, use IRS Free File to prepare and file your return for free.

2. Pay Any Amounts Due

  • Partial Payments: If you can’t pay the full amount, pay as much as you can to reduce penalties and interest.
  • Payment Options: The IRS offers several payment options, including direct debit, credit or debit card, and online payment agreements.

3. Request an Extension

  • Automatic Extension: If you missed the deadline but are still within six months of it, file Form 4868 for an automatic extension, which gives you until October 15, 2024, to file your return.
  • Remember: An extension to file is not an extension to pay. You still need to estimate and pay any taxes owed by the April deadline to avoid penalties and interest.

4. Understand the Penalties

  • Failure-to-File Penalty: Typically 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month or part of a month that your return is late, up to a maximum of 25%.
  • Failure-to-Pay Penalty: Generally 0.5% of your unpaid taxes for each month or part of a month after the due date, until the tax is paid in full, up to 25%.
  • Interest: Interest accrues on any unpaid taxes from the due date of the return until the date of payment.

5. Consider a Payment Plan

  • Installment Agreement: If you can’t pay your tax bill in full, apply for a monthly payment plan. You can apply online for a payment plan on the IRS website.
  • Offer in Compromise: In some cases, the IRS may accept less than the full amount you owe through an Offer in Compromise.

6. Seek Professional Help

  • Tax Professional: Consider hiring a tax professional to help you navigate the process, especially if you have complex tax issues or owe a significant amount of money.
  • Taxpayer Advocate Service: If you’re experiencing financial hardship or have unresolved tax issues, the Taxpayer Advocate Service may be able to assist you.

7. Review Your Withholding and Estimates

  • Adjust Withholding: If you frequently owe taxes or receive large refunds, you may need to adjust your withholding or make estimated tax payments to avoid future issues.
  • Estimated Payments: Make sure to pay your quarterly estimated taxes if you are self-employed or have significant income not subject to withholding.

8. Stay Informed

  • IRS Notifications: If the IRS sends you a notice or letter, respond promptly to avoid further penalties.
  • Keep Records: Maintain copies of your filed tax returns, payment receipts, and any correspondence with the IRS.

By following these steps, you can mitigate the impact of missing the April 2024 tax deadline and get back on track with your tax obligations.

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

Tax Questions, taxes
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Stimulus Checks In 2022
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

Student Loans and Federal Taxes 2024

Student loans can have various implications for federal taxes, including potential deductions, credits, and consequences for repayment. Here are some key points to consider regarding student loans and federal taxes:

  1. Student Loan Interest Deduction: Taxpayers who have paid interest on qualified student loans may be eligible to deduct up to $2,500 of the interest paid on their federal income tax return. This deduction is available even if the taxpayer does not itemize deductions, making it accessible to many taxpayers. However, there are income limitations and other eligibility criteria that must be met to claim this deduction.
  2. Education Tax Credits: Taxpayers who are paying for higher education expenses, including student loan interest, may be eligible for education tax credits such as the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) or the Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC). These credits can help reduce the amount of tax owed or result in a refund if the credits exceed the taxpayer’s tax liability.
  3. Income-Driven Repayment Plans: Borrowers who are enrolled in income-driven repayment plans (IDRs) for their federal student loans may have a portion of their outstanding loan balance forgiven after making qualifying payments for a certain period. However, the forgiven amount may be considered taxable income in the year it is discharged, potentially resulting in a higher tax liability for the borrower.
  4. Taxability of Loan Discharges: In certain circumstances, such as total and permanent disability or death, federal student loans may be discharged, meaning the borrower is no longer required to repay the remaining balance. However, the discharged amount may be considered taxable income unless an exception applies.
  5. Employer Student Loan Repayment Assistance: Some employers offer student loan repayment assistance as a benefit to employees. Under current law, employer contributions to employee student loans of up to $5,250 per year may be excluded from the employee’s taxable income, providing potential tax savings.
  6. Tax Withholding Adjustments: Borrowers who expect to have a significant tax liability due to forgiven student loan debt or other factors may need to adjust their tax withholding or make estimated tax payments to avoid underpayment penalties.

It’s important for borrowers to understand the tax implications of their student loans and to consult with a tax professional or financial advisor for personalized advice based on their individual circumstances. Additionally, tax laws and regulations may change over time, so borrowers should stay informed about any updates that may affect their tax situation.

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

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Stimulus Checks In 2022
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

Commonly Asked Tax Questions

Are you able file your taxes or comprehend what you owe Uncle Sam? There is a strong chance you’re confused about tax regulations. On the bright side, we’ve compiled a list of answers to 5 common tax questions you may be asking — including if you should hire a tax preparer, if you should file if you’re a college student, when you’ll receive your tax refund and more.

  1. Should I hire a tax preparer?

If you choose to hire a tax professional is subject to your comfort level with the tax-filing procedure and the convolution of your return. If you’re seeking a tax preparer with a greater degree of experience, consider a CPA or E.A. Both professionals are required pass specific exams to get licensed.

  1. What is the standard deduction?

The standard deduction is an allocated amount of money of which you aren’t taxed. The total of the standard deduction that you claim is subject on your tax status and the year that you’re filing. Taxes filed in 2019, the standard deduction $12,000 for filing single and $24,000 for married couples filing together.

  1. When will my tax refund get to me?

When your tax refund will get to you is subject on how and when you filed. According to the IRS 90% of federal tax refunds are distributed within twenty-one days, and details are usually available within a day from when the IRS receives an e-filed tax return or 4 weeks following them receiving a traditional paper return. Utilize the IRS Where’s My Refund? device and the IRS2Go app to track it.

  1. Should I file taxes if I’m enrolled in college?

Prior to you filing taxes as a student going to college, think about your income and if your parents will claim you as a dependent on their taxes. Students that earn less than $12,000 don’t need to file a tax return but might still gain from filing if taxes were withheld from their paycheck or want to claim specific tax benefits like the American opportunity tax credit.

  1. How can I get the largest tax refund this year?

To receive the largest tax refund this year, begin to think about your tax circumstances early, preferably prior to the tax year ending. Next, consider how to make the most out of deductions through itemizing if you’re able to, declare tax credits and deductions in which you qualify for and give to your retirement accounts. When your tax situation is convoluted, think about working with an experience tax preparer.

  1. How do I select the preferable tax-filing software?

When evaluating the preferable tax-filing software for your circumstance, think about the costs and services offered. A great place to begin is with the dozen software businesses that work alongside the IRS-affiliated Free File Alliance. They are IRS approved and satisfy specific security and privacy conditions.

  1. Who is established as a dependent on my taxes?

Dependents may include qualifying children, family members and other people that you support. Dependents need to satisfy certain age, income and housing conditions.

  1. How can I evade IRS tax scams?

Evade typical IRS tax scams by handling suspicious or out of left field communications from alleged IRS officials with a healthy suspicion. The IRS will usually reach out by regular mail first, so be cautious of e-mails, any texts or phone calls insisting to be from the IRS. Additionally, be vigilant for poor grammar, threats of calling the police and demands for payments through gift cards or wire transfers.

  1. Should I choose direct deposit?

Yes, when you want to get your tax refund as fast as possible, choosing direct deposit can be faster than, for instance, petitioning a check to be mailed out.

  1. Can I decrease my chances of getting audited?

To decrease the chance of a tax audit, make sure there are no errors, disclose all of your income, retain correct records and stay away from illegal or inappropriate tax moves like exaggerating charitable donations.

Whereas these answers to common tax questions may help you begin in fulfilling your tax responsibilities, you might still have questions as you start to file your return. If you see any questions you do not see on this list, contact us and we will be more than happy to answer them.

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

Tax Questions, taxes
0
Stimulus Checks In 2022
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

Student Loans and Federal Taxes 2023

Student loans can have several implications for federal taxes in the United States. Here’s how they work with federal taxes:

  1. Student Loan Interest Deduction: One of the primary ways student loans affect federal taxes is through the student loan interest deduction. Borrowers who are repaying qualified student loans may be eligible to deduct the interest they’ve paid on those loans during the tax year. As of my last knowledge update in 2022, this deduction allows eligible taxpayers to reduce their taxable income by up to $2,500 per year, subject to income limitations. The loan must have been used for qualified education expenses, and there are income phase-out limits.
  2. Taxable Forgiveness: In some cases, if you have federal student loans that are forgiven through income-driven repayment plans or Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), the forgiven amount may be considered taxable income. This means you could owe taxes on the amount forgiven. However, certain forgiveness programs, like PSLF, offer tax-free forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments.
  3. Income-Driven Repayment Plans: Under income-driven repayment plans (e.g., Income-Based Repayment, Pay As You Earn, Revised Pay As You Earn), your monthly loan payments are calculated based on your income and family size. These plans can help make your payments more manageable, but they can also affect your tax liability. If your monthly payments are reduced, you may have a higher taxable income because your discretionary income is lower. This could result in a larger tax bill in some cases.
  4. Tax Credits for Education Expenses: While not directly related to student loans, there are federal tax credits available, such as the American Opportunity Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit, that can provide tax benefits for qualified education expenses. You can’t double-dip by claiming these credits for the same expenses that you used to deduct student loan interest.
  5. State Tax Implications: In addition to federal taxes, it’s important to consider how student loans may impact your state income tax liability. State tax laws vary, and some states offer their deductions or credits for student loan interest.

It’s important to keep accurate records of your student loan payments, interest paid, and any relevant documents related to your loans. When it comes to tax matters related to student loans, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified tax professional or use tax software to ensure that you take advantage of available deductions and credits and understand the potential tax consequences of loan forgiveness. Additionally, it’s essential to stay informed about changes in tax laws and regulations that may affect student loans and tax liability.

Are you able file your taxes or comprehend what you owe Uncle Sam? There is a strong chance you’re confused about tax regulations. On the bright side, we’ve compiled a list of answers to 5 common tax questions you may be asking — including if you should hire a tax preparer, if you should file if you’re a college student, when you’ll receive your tax refund and more.

  1. Should I hire a tax preparer?

If you choose to hire a tax professional is subject to your comfort level with the tax-filing procedure and the convolution of your return. If you’re seeking a tax preparer with a greater degree of experience, consider a CPA or E.A. Both professionals are required pass specific exams to get licensed.

  1. What is the standard deduction?

The standard deduction is an allocated amount of money of which you aren’t taxed. The total of the standard deduction that you claim is subject on your tax status and the year that you’re filing. Taxes filed in 2019, the standard deduction $12,000 for filing single and $24,000 for married couples filing together.

  1. When will my tax refund get to me?

When your tax refund will get to you is subject on how and when you filed. According to the IRS 90% of federal tax refunds are distributed within twenty-one days, and details are usually available within a day from when the IRS receives an e-filed tax return or 4 weeks following them receiving a traditional paper return. Utilize the IRS Where’s My Refund? device and the IRS2Go app to track it.

  1. Should I file taxes if I’m enrolled in college?

Prior to you filing taxes as a student going to college, think about your income and if your parents will claim you as a dependent on their taxes. Students that earn less than $12,000 don’t need to file a tax return but might still gain from filing if taxes were withheld from their paycheck or want to claim specific tax benefits like the American opportunity tax credit.

  1. How can I get the largest tax refund this year?

To receive the largest tax refund this year, begin to think about your tax circumstances early, preferably prior to the tax year ending. Next, consider how to make the most out of deductions through itemizing if you’re able to, declare tax credits and deductions in which you qualify for and give to your retirement accounts. When your tax situation is convoluted, think about working with an experience tax preparer.

  1. How do I select the preferable tax-filing software?

When evaluating the preferable tax-filing software for your circumstance, think about the costs and services offered. A great place to begin is with the dozen software businesses that work alongside the IRS-affiliated Free File Alliance. They are IRS approved and satisfy specific security and privacy conditions.

  1. Who is established as a dependent on my taxes?

Dependents may include qualifying children, family members and other people that you support. Dependents need to satisfy certain age, income and housing conditions.

  1. How can I evade IRS tax scams?

Evade typical IRS tax scams by handling suspicious or out of left field communications from alleged IRS officials with a healthy suspicion. The IRS will usually reach out by regular mail first, so be cautious of e-mails, any texts or phone calls insisting to be from the IRS. Additionally, be vigilant for poor grammar, threats of calling the police and demands for payments through gift cards or wire transfers.

  1. Should I choose direct deposit?

Yes, when you want to get your tax refund as fast as possible, choosing direct deposit can be faster than, for instance, petitioning a check to be mailed out.

  1. Can I decrease my chances of getting audited?

To decrease the chance of a tax audit, make sure there are no errors, disclose all of your income, retain correct records and stay away from illegal or inappropriate tax moves like exaggerating charitable donations.

Whereas these answers to common tax questions may help you begin in fulfilling your tax responsibilities, you might still have questions as you start to file your return. If you see any questions you do not see on this list, contact us and we will be more than happy to answer them.

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

Back Taxes, Debt, Property Taxes, Real estate Taxes, Retirement, Tax Lien, Tax Questions, taxes
0
Stimulus Checks In 2022
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

Top Tax Frequently Asked Questions 2023

Are you able file your taxes or comprehend what you owe Uncle Sam? There is a strong chance you’re confused about tax regulations. On the bright side, we’ve compiled a list of answers to 5 common tax questions you may be asking — including if you should hire a tax preparer, if you should file if you’re a college student, when you’ll receive your tax refund and more.

  1. Should I hire a tax preparer?

If you choose to hire a tax professional is subject to your comfort level with the tax-filing procedure and the convolution of your return. If you’re seeking a tax preparer with a greater degree of experience, consider a CPA or E.A. Both professionals are required pass specific exams to get licensed.

  1. What is the standard deduction?

The standard deduction is an allocated amount of money of which you aren’t taxed. The total of the standard deduction that you claim is subject on your tax status and the year that you’re filing. Taxes filed in 2019, the standard deduction $12,000 for filing single and $24,000 for married couples filing together.

  1. When will my tax refund get to me?

When your tax refund will get to you is subject on how and when you filed. According to the IRS 90% of federal tax refunds are distributed within twenty-one days, and details are usually available within a day from when the IRS receives an e-filed tax return or 4 weeks following them receiving a traditional paper return. Utilize the IRS Where’s My Refund? device and the IRS2Go app to track it.

  1. Should I file taxes if I’m enrolled in college?

Prior to you filing taxes as a student going to college, think about your income and if your parents will claim you as a dependent on their taxes. Students that earn less than $12,000 don’t need to file a tax return but might still gain from filing if taxes were withheld from their paycheck or want to claim specific tax benefits like the American opportunity tax credit.

  1. How can I get the largest tax refund this year?

To receive the largest tax refund this year, begin to think about your tax circumstances early, preferably prior to the tax year ending. Next, consider how to make the most out of deductions through itemizing if you’re able to, declare tax credits and deductions in which you qualify for and give to your retirement accounts. When your tax situation is convoluted, think about working with an experience tax preparer.

  1. How do I select the preferable tax-filing software?

When evaluating the preferable tax-filing software for your circumstance, think about the costs and services offered. A great place to begin is with the dozen software businesses that work alongside the IRS-affiliated Free File Alliance. They are IRS approved and satisfy specific security and privacy conditions.

  1. Who is established as a dependent on my taxes?

Dependents may include qualifying children, family members and other people that you support. Dependents need to satisfy certain age, income and housing conditions.

  1. How can I evade IRS tax scams?

Evade typical IRS tax scams by handling suspicious or out of left field communications from alleged IRS officials with a healthy suspicion. The IRS will usually reach out by regular mail first, so be cautious of e-mails, any texts or phone calls insisting to be from the IRS. Additionally, be vigilant for poor grammar, threats of calling the police and demands for payments through gift cards or wire transfers.

  1. Should I choose direct deposit?

Yes, when you want to get your tax refund as fast as possible, choosing direct deposit can be faster than, for instance, petitioning a check to be mailed out.

  1. Can I decrease my chances of getting audited?

To decrease the chance of a tax audit, make sure there are no errors, disclose all of your income, retain correct records and stay away from illegal or inappropriate tax moves like exaggerating charitable donations.

Whereas these answers to common tax questions may help you begin in fulfilling your tax responsibilities, you might still have questions as you start to file your return. If you see any questions you do not see on this list, contact us and we will be more than happy to answer them.

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

Tax Questions, taxes
0
Can The IRS Take Your 401K
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

Can The IRS Take Your 401K

The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) generally cannot directly seize your 401(k) account to satisfy tax debts or other liabilities. 401(k) accounts are protected by various laws, including the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), which provides safeguards for retirement savings.

However, there are some situations where the IRS may indirectly access funds from your 401(k):

  1. Early Withdrawals: If you make early withdrawals from your 401(k) account before reaching the age of 59½, you may be subject to income tax on the withdrawal amount, as well as a 10% early withdrawal penalty. These taxes can reduce the funds available to you.

  2. Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): Once you reach the age of 72 (or 70½ if you reached that age before January 1, 2020), you are required to start taking minimum distributions from your traditional 401(k) account. These distributions are subject to income tax.

  3. IRS Levy: While the IRS cannot directly seize your 401(k), if you have a tax debt that you are not paying and the IRS issues a levy against you, they can potentially levy other assets, such as your bank accounts. If you decide to withdraw money from your 401(k) to cover the tax debt, it may still be subject to taxes and penalties.

  4. Divorce or Court Orders: In the case of divorce or other court-ordered settlements, a portion of your 401(k) may be subject to division between you and your former spouse or another party, as determined by a court.

  5. Bankruptcy: In the event of bankruptcy, your 401(k) is generally protected from creditors. However, this protection may vary depending on your state’s bankruptcy laws, so it’s essential to consult with a bankruptcy attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

Here are some things you can do to avoid having your 401(k) levied by the IRS:

  • File your taxes on time and pay your taxes in full.
  • If you cannot pay your taxes in full, contact the IRS to set up a payment plan.
  • Keep your 401(k) balance low. The less money you have in your 401(k), the less the IRS can take if they levy it.
  • Consider rolling over your 401(k) to an IRA. IRAs are not protected from levies by the IRS, but they may be less attractive to the IRS than 401(k)s because they are more difficult to access.

If you have any questions about whether or not the IRS can take your 401(k), you should speak to a tax advisor.

It’s crucial to consider the tax implications and penalties associated with early withdrawals from a 401(k) before taking any action. Generally, it’s advisable to preserve your retirement savings for its intended purpose—retirement. If you are facing financial difficulties and have a tax debt, it’s a good idea to contact the IRS to explore options for resolving the debt through installment agreements or other means that do not require depleting your retirement savings. Additionally, seeking advice from a tax professional or financial advisor can help you make informed decisions regarding your financial situation and retirement accounts.

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. This family owned tax practice has been serving the public since all the way back in 1977!

More Articles About Taxes

 

 

Back Taxes, Debt, Property Taxes, Real estate Taxes, Retirement, Tax Questions, taxes
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Stimulus Checks In 2022
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

What to Do If You Have Missed The April 2023 Tax Deadline

If you have missed the April 2023 Tax Deadline here is some advice from the IRS: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/missed-the-tax-day-deadline-heres-what-taxpayers-should-do#:~:text=Taxpayers%20who%20owe%20tax,to%20reduce%20penalties%20and%20interest.https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-someone-should-do-if-they-missed-the-april-deadline-to-file-and-pay-taxes

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

Tax Questions, taxes
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IRS Online Payment Plans 2022
Regular Post
Written by Craig B

IRS Online Payment Plans 2023

If you are a qualified taxpayer or authorized representative (Power of Attorney) you can apply for a payment plan (including installment agreement) online to pay off your balance over time. Read on to learn more. You can a payment plan at: https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application

Qualification

Your specific tax situation will determine which payment options are available to you. Payment options include full payment, a short-term payment plan (paying in 120 days or less) or a long-term payment plan (installment agreement) (paying monthly).

You may qualify to apply online if:

  • Long-term payment plan (installment agreement): You owe $50,000 or less in combined tax, penalties and interest, and filed all required returns.
  • Short-term payment plan: You owe less than $100,000 in combined tax, penalties and interest.

If you are a sole proprietor or independent contractor, apply for a payment plan as an individual.

Note: Setup fees may be higher if you apply for a payment plan by phone, mail, or in-person. Get more information on other payment plan options and fees.

Payment Plan Applications

  • Name exactly as it appears on your most recently filed tax return
  • Valid e-mail address
  • Address from most recently filed tax return
  • Date of birth
  • Filing status
  • Your Social Security Number or Individual Tax ID Number (ITIN)
  • Based on the type of agreement requested, you may also need the balance due amount
  • To confirm your identity, you will need:
    • financial account number or
    • mobile phone registered in your name or
    • activation code received by postal mail (takes 5 to 10 business days)
  • If you previously registered for an Online Payment Agreement, Get Transcript, or any Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), you should log in with the same user ID and password. You will need to confirm your identity by providing the additional information listed above if you haven’t already done so.

Costs

Pay Now

  • $0 setup fee
  • No future penalties or interest added

Pay amount owed in full today directly from your checking or savings account (Direct Pay)  or by check, money order or debit/credit card.
Fees apply when paying by card.

Short-term Payment Plan (120 days or less)

  • $0 setup fee
  • Plus accrued penalties and interest until the balance is paid in full

After applying for a short-term payment plan, you can pay the amount owed directly from your checking or savings account (Direct Pay) or by check, money order or debit/credit card.
Fees apply when paying by card.

Long-term Payment Plan (Installment Agreement)  (Pay monthly)

Pay monthly through automatic withdrawals

  • $31 setup fee (low income: setup fee waived)
  • Plus accrued penalties and interest until the balance is paid in full

Pay amount owed through Direct Debit (automatic payments from your checking account), also known as a Direct Debit Installment Agreement (DDIA). This is required if your balance is more than $25,000.
Pay each month (non-Direct Debit)

  • $149 setup fee (low income: $43 setup fee that may be reimbursed if certain conditions are met)
  • Plus accrued penalties and interest until the balance is paid in full

After applying for a long-term payment plan, pay amount owed through non-Direct Debit (not automated) monthly payments, including payments directly from your checking or savings account (Direct Pay) or by check, money order or debit/credit card.
Fees apply when paying by card.

Revise an Existing Payment Plan (Installment Agreement) or Reinstate After Default

  • $10 fee, which may be reimbursed if you are identified as low income and certain conditions are met.

IRS payment plans, also known as installment agreements, offer several advantages for taxpayers who owe back taxes but are unable to pay the full amount immediately. These payment plans are designed to help individuals and businesses fulfill their tax obligations while managing their financial circumstances. Here are some key advantages of IRS payment plans:

  1. Affordable Payments: Payment plans allow taxpayers to spread their tax debt over a specified period, making it more manageable to budget for regular payments. The IRS considers your financial situation when determining the monthly payment amount, which helps prevent financial hardship.
  2. Avoid Collection Actions: Entering into an IRS payment plan can help prevent more aggressive collection actions, such as wage garnishment, bank levies, or asset seizures. As long as you meet the terms of the agreement, the IRS generally suspends collection activities.
  3. Maintain Good Standing: Complying with an installment agreement helps you remain in good standing with the IRS. It demonstrates your commitment to resolving your tax debt and can positively impact your credit score and financial reputation.
  4. Flexible Terms: The IRS offers different types of payment plans, including short-term (120 days or less) and long-term (more than 120 days) plans. Taxpayers can choose the plan that best fits their financial situation.
  5. Reduced Penalties: If you enter into an installment agreement, you may be eligible to request a reduction in certain penalties, such as the failure-to-pay penalty. While interest continues to accrue on the unpaid balance, penalty relief can result in cost savings.
  6. Avoid Additional Costs: Failing to pay your tax debt on time can lead to additional costs in the form of penalties and interest. By entering into an IRS payment plan, you can stop the accrual of some penalties, potentially saving money in the long run.
  7. Structured Approach: Payment plans provide a structured approach to resolving your tax debt. You’ll have a clear payment schedule and a set date by which your debt will be fully paid, helping you stay on track.
  8. Avoid Negative Impact on Credit Score: While a tax lien may be filed when you enter into a payment plan, it’s typically not reported to credit bureaus. This means that your credit score may not be negatively affected, as long as you make your payments as agreed.
  9. Easier to Budget: Knowing the exact amount and due date of your monthly payments makes it easier to budget and plan your finances accordingly.
  10. Temporary Financial Relief: Payment plans can provide temporary financial relief, allowing you to address other financial priorities while still meeting your tax obligations.

Tax Settlement in Mesa, Arizona

If you need IRS Debt Help, Tax Debt Settlements or Tax Debt Advising in Phoenix, Mesa or anywhere else, Tax Debt Advisors can help! Give us a call at 480-926-9300 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.

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