Tax Debt Help

Get the Help You Need
Owing a lot of money to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) can be nerve-wracking. If you've received a bill from the IRS and aren't sure what to do, you may want to consider hiring a professional for tax debt help. But be careful of who you hire.

Unrealistic Promises
Make sure you choose someone who is a tax attorney, certified public accountant (CPA), or enrolled agent. Make sure they are licensed, don't have complaints filed against them, and tell you their fees before you sign up. Steer clear of agencies that make claims that sound too good to be true. Some companies claim they can drastically reduce your tax debt, but this unlikely to occur for most taxpayers.

Reviewing Returns
Whoever you hire should review your tax return to see if it was filed correctly. That person should be able to recommend whether or not you need to amend your return or try to set up some kind of payment plan. Depending upon your situation, a tax professional may be to help you put together an Offer in Compromise, which could allow you to pay a reduced amount.

Tax Debt Help from the IRS
If you choose not to hire a tax professional there is assistance available through the Taxpayer Advocate Service, which is an independent organization within the IRS. People may qualify for this free service if they are experiencing economic harm or have not gotten a response or resolution to their tax debt problems by the date promised by the IRS.