Can The IRS Take Your 401K
Written by Craig B

What Is The IRS Fresh Start Program?

You may have heard about the Internal Revenue Service’s “new start” program and wondered if you might use it to pay off your tax obligation. But what is the Fresh Start program precisely, and how does it work?

The Fresh Start program is meant to allow taxpayers to pay off their debts in full within six years without incurring significant financial hardship. It is open to any taxpayer with a tax obligation of $50,000 or less owed to the IRS. The IRS started the program in 2008 and expanded it in 2012 to help people with their credentials and financial constraints.

The Fresh Start program streamlines the process of repaying a big tax obligation while also removing some of the hassles that come with owing the IRS large quantities of money, such as liens, levies, wage garnishments, and penalties. An extended installment plan, tax lien withdrawals, and the Offer in Compromise are the three repayment options available under the program.

The extended installment agreement is the most prevalent of these alternatives, and it is meant for taxpayers who owe $50,000 or less. This option allows taxpayers to pay off their tax obligation over a six-year period without incurring any further fines or interest. Wage garnishments, tax liens, and tax levies will all be put on hold by the IRS. This program requires the taxpayer to make monthly payments in an amount determined by their income and the value of their assets. The goal is for the payments to be affordable to the taxpayer so that they may be made on time and without financial hardship.

Taxpayers can use a direct debit payment option to pay off their debts under the tax lien withdrawal. Once this is in place, the taxpayer can request that any tax liens on their accounts be removed by the IRS. This also prevents the tax lien from being disclosed to the three consumer credit reporting organizations.

The Offer in Compromise, or OIC, program is the final option. Taxpayers who participate in the OIC program may be able to settle their debt for less than they owe. The taxpayer submits an offer based on the worth of assets that can be liquidated to pay off the debt. In calculating what the IRS believes the taxpayer can reasonably repay, the IRS will take into account the taxpayer’s ability to pay, current income and costs, and any asset equity. Because an OIC must be negotiated with the IRS and can take months to get, you may wish to enlist the services of a tax professional to walk you through the process and negotiate with the IRS on your behalf. Even then, only a small percentage of taxpayers will be successful in settling their debt for a lower sum, and if the IRS accepts the offer, their assets will be severely diminished.

Of course, there are certain extra requirements in order to be eligible for the Fresh Start program. To begin, you must be current on all of your tax returns, including those from previous years. If you have any unfiled returns, you cannot apply for the Fresh Start program, and you must file timely taxes for any subsequent years.

For many taxpayers, dealing with the IRS collections department is a terrifying prospect, but you don’t have to go it alone. If you’re not sure whether Fresh Start program is ideal for your particular tax debt situation, you should seek counsel from a specialist Acting today, whether you decide to handle your tax burden on your own or with the help of a professional, is the best way forward. Tax issues do not go away on their own, and they can cause a great deal of stress in your life and relationships. With the Fresh Start program, you know you’re on your way to getting rid of this load.

The Fresh Start Program includes the following key components:

  1. Expanded Offer in Compromise (OIC) Eligibility: One significant aspect of the Fresh Start Program is the expanded eligibility for the Offer in Compromise program. An Offer in Compromise allows taxpayers to settle their tax debts for less than the full amount owed if they meet certain criteria. Under the Fresh Start changes, the IRS revised its calculation of a taxpayer’s reasonable collection potential, making it more accessible for financially struggling individuals to qualify for an OIC.

  2. Streamlined Installment Agreements: The IRS increased the threshold for streamlined installment agreements. Taxpayers who owe less than $50,000 can enter into installment agreements without submitting detailed financial statements or extensive documentation. These streamlined agreements simplify the process of paying off tax debt over time.

  3. Reduced Tax Lien Filings: The IRS raised the threshold for the automatic filing of tax liens. The Fresh Start Program increased the minimum tax debt amount that triggers a tax lien filing, reducing the number of liens imposed on taxpayers. A tax lien can negatively affect a taxpayer’s credit and financial standing.

  4. More Flexible Offer Terms: The IRS extended the time frame for taxpayers to pay off their accepted Offer in Compromise amounts. This extension allows taxpayers more time to satisfy their negotiated tax debt settlements.

  5. Suspension of Collection Activities: In certain cases, the IRS may temporarily suspend collection activities for taxpayers facing economic hardship. This gives taxpayers additional time to stabilize their financial situations.

  6. Easier Penalty Abatement: The Fresh Start Program introduced more lenient criteria for requesting the abatement of certain penalties, such as the failure-to-pay penalty. Taxpayers who have a good compliance history and can show reasonable cause may be eligible for penalty relief.

It’s important to note that while the Fresh Start Program offers relief options to taxpayers, the IRS still expects taxpayers to fulfill their tax obligations. These initiatives are designed to help taxpayers who genuinely need assistance due to financial hardship.

If you owe back taxes to the IRS and are struggling to meet your tax obligations, it’s advisable to consult with a tax professional or seek assistance from the IRS to explore the options available to you under the Fresh Start Program or other tax relief programs. Keep in mind that tax laws and IRS policies can change over time, so it’s essential to stay informed about the latest updates and requirements.

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

 

 

Why Do I Owe Taxes
Written by webtechs

Why Do I Owe Taxes?

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.

5 Reasons Why You May Owe Taxes This Year

Because everyone’s situation is unique, there are several different reasons why you may owe money on your taxes. Five 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.

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.

Additional Reasons For Owing Taxes

  1. Underreporting Income: Failing to report all of your income on your tax return is a common reason for tax debts. This can result from unintentional errors, such as forgetting to report freelance income or investment gains, or intentional efforts to hide income.
  2. Failure to Pay Estimated Taxes: If you’re self-employed or have income not subject to withholding, you are generally required to make estimated tax payments throughout the year. Failure to make these payments or underestimating the amount owed can lead to a tax debt when you file your annual return.
  3. Changes in Tax Laws: Tax laws can change from year to year, and sometimes taxpayers are unaware of new deductions, credits, or changes in tax rates. Failing to take advantage of available tax breaks can result in a higher tax bill.
  4. Tax Credits or Deductions Disallowed: The IRS may disallow certain tax credits or deductions if you don’t meet the eligibility criteria or if you can’t provide adequate documentation to support your claims. This can result in a higher tax liability.
  5. Tax Penalty Assessments: The IRS can assess various penalties for non-compliance, such as late filing, late payment, or underpayment of estimated taxes. These penalties can significantly increase your overall tax debt.
  6. Tax Audits: If the IRS audits your tax return and identifies discrepancies or errors, it may lead to additional taxes, penalties, and interest. Audits can be triggered by various factors, including red flags on your return or random selection.
  7. Unpaid Payroll Taxes: If you’re a business owner, failing to withhold and remit payroll taxes for your employees can result in substantial tax debts. The IRS takes payroll tax compliance very seriously.
  8. Tax Fraud: Engaging in fraudulent activities to evade taxes is illegal and can lead to severe penalties, including criminal charges. Tax evasion can result in substantial tax debts and legal consequences.
  9. Inheritance or Windfall: Receiving a large inheritance or windfall may lead to unexpected tax liabilities, especially if you’re not prepared for the tax consequences of the transaction.
  10. State Tax Debt: In addition to federal taxes, you may owe state taxes. State tax debts can occur for similar reasons as federal tax debts, including underreporting income, failing to pay estimated taxes, or non-compliance with state tax laws.

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.

Tax Attorney Cost
Written by webtechs

Tax Attorney Cost

On average, a tax attorney costs about $300 per hour with average tax lawyer fees ranging from $200 to $400 in the US for 2023. However, hiring an experienced tax attorney that works in a large firm can cost you upwards of $1,000 per hour. 

  • Lowest Cost: $200 per hour.
  • Average Cost: $300 per hour.
  • Highest Cost: $400 per hour.

average cost of tax attorney

Average Tax Lawyer Fees

According to Cross Law Group, “Tax attorneys generally charge either an hourly rate or a flat fee for their services. Hourly Rate: The majority of tax attorneys charge by the hour. Every attorney will charge a different hourly rate, but most rates are between $200 to $400 per hour.

Hiring a tax attorney for installment agreements with cost an average of $1,250 with average prices ranging from $750 to $1,500. Offers in Compromise cost an average of $5,000 with average fees ranging from $3,500 to $6,500. For a simple IRS audit you can expect to pay a tax lawyer anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 while a complex audit can cost $5,000 or more. Penalty Abatement costs an average of $1,750 with average fees ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. IRS Appeals with cost anywhere from $5,000 to $7,500 and Tax Court Litigation will cost upwards of $10,000 or more. *Disclaimer – These our not the actual cost of our Tax Debt Advisory services. Contact Tax Debt Advisors to get an actual quote for the IRS help you need.

Do I Need a Tax Attorney?

Believe it or not, you actually don’t have need a tax attorney to settle IRS debt. Instead why not hire a Tax Debt Advisor who can do the same thing as a tax lawyer, and who has been helping customers dealing with tax issues since 1977. Scott Allen E.A. from Tax Debt Advisors has helped over 108,000 people settle their problems with the IRS and can help guide you through any tax situation you may be dealing with. Avoid paying the high cost of hiring a tax attorney when you don’t need one and save money by hiring a tax debt advisor today! 

Settle Debt With Tax Debt Advisors

Need help with wiping out your old tax debt? Tax Debt Advisors has helped resolve over 108,000 debts. Receive a tax debt consultation today by giving Scott a call today at 480-926-9300. Tax Debt Advisors can help negotiate an offer in compromise on your behalf to finally settle your tax debt.

We can also help with:

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.

When Can You Stop Filing Taxes
Written by webtechs

When Can You Stop Filing Taxes?

Individuals can stop filing income taxes at age 65 if the following qualifications are met:

  • You are an unmarried senior making less than $14,250.
  • You are a married senior who is filing jointly and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualifying widow earning less than $26,450.

The IRS wants everyone to file a tax return when their gross income surpasses the total of the standard deduction for their filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. These specific filing rules still apply to senior citizens currently living on their Social Security. However, seniors do not consider their Social Security income as gross income. You do not need to file a tax return if Social Security is your only source of income.

When Must Seniors File Taxes?

For the tax year 2021, seniors must file taxes if unmarried, at least 65 years old and gross income was $14,250 or more. If you live on your Social Security benefits, however, you do not include this in your gross income. If these benefits are the sole income you receive, then your gross income amounts to zero, meaning you will not have to file a federal income tax return. If you do earn additional income that is not exempt from being taxed, you must determine whether or not that total exceeds $14,250.

In previous tax years, these amounts were based on the year’s standard deduction, in addition to the exemption amount for both your age and filing status. For tax years after 2018, only the standard deduction is applied. This is because exemptions are no longer used in calculating your taxable income.

You must file a return if your gross income is $27,800 or more if you and your spouse are at least 65 years old and filing jointly. If your spouse is under age 65, the threshold amount goes down to $26,450. Be aware that these income thresholds apply to the 2018 tax year and they typically increase each year.

When To Include Social Security In Your Gross Income

There are a few circumstances that call for seniors to add Social Security benefits to their gross income. If you are married and filing an individual tax return while residing with your spouse during the year, 85% of your benefits are considered gross income. This may require you filing a tax return as a result.

Tax Credits For Seniors

There are several ways to decrease the amount of tax you will pay on your taxable income, even if you have to file a tax return. As long as you are at least 65 years old and have income from a source(s) other than Social Security that is not too large, then tax credits for seniors, the elderly and disabled, can lower your tax bill using a dollar-for-dollar arrangement. This tax credit, though, only comes in handy when you owe tax to the IRS.

What Age Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You are eligible to stop paying taxes on Social Security when you are age 65 and your income is not too high.

TurboTax says, “As long as you are at least 65 years old and your income from sources other than Social Security is not high, then the tax credit for the elderly or disabled can reduce your tax bill on a dollar-for-dollar basis. However, this tax credit is only useful when you actually owe tax to the IRS.”

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.

IRS Online Payment Plans 2022
Written by Craig B

Paying Your IRS Taxes Online

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.

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.

Who-pays-capital-gains-taxes-during-a-divorce-750x422
Written by Craig B

Capital Gains Taxes And Divorce

Unless you’re a tax professional, chances are capital gains taxes during a divorce are confusing. There are many rules surrounding capital gains. Here are a few:

  • Capital gains taxes may occur when you sell an asset for a profit.
  • The percentage of capital gains taxes you owe depends on your tax bracket.
  • During a divorce, there is an exemption up to a certain amount on your primary residence, but you need to have lived there for a specific amount of time. Contact a professional for more information.
  • Financial investments (stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETF’s) may have “unrealized” capital gains – which will be taxed upon sale. They should be taken into account when dividing these assets.

Navigating Capital Gains Taxes During a Divorce

Divorce can create a lot of confusion about your financial picture. You are dividing or signing over your rights to assets and navigating the complex process of who gets what. Things can get overwhelming quickly. If you have to sell the family home or other properties, you may be concerned about paying capital gains taxes. There are several questions that are helpful to ask a financial professional.

  • Which party is responsible for the capital gains taxes?
  • How do we clearly spell out who pays what?
  • How much will the capital gains taxes be?
  • Is there a more tax efficient way to handle the sale of our house(s)?
  • We’ve lived in the primary residence a long time, how much of the profit can each of us exclude from capital gains taxes?
  • Should we continue to co-own the home?

Each situation is unique. Consulting a financial professional can allow you to understand the benefits and consequences of your decisions. A professional will be able to review your situation and offer options, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. Navigating this situation with a professional can prevent miscommunication and allow each party to make informed decisions.

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.

Stimulus Checks In 2022
Written by Craig B

What to Do If You Have Missed The April Tax Deadline

If you have missed the April 2022 Tax Deadline here is some advice from the IRS: 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.

Stimulus Checks In 2022
Written by Craig B

Frequently Asked Tax Questions 2022

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.

IRS Online Payment Plans 2022
Written by Craig B

IRS Online Payment Plans 2022

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.

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.

Stimulus Checks In 2022
Written by Craig B

Top Tax Frequently Asked 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.

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