- How soon do I need to act?
- Sooner is better. Many IRS notices carry firm deadlines for appeals, hearings, or levy responses, and missing them can limit your options. If your notice has a deadline, do not wait — reach out now.
- Am I going to jail over this?
- The vast majority of IRS collection matters are civil, not criminal. Owing money or falling behind is not a crime. My job is to explain where you actually stand and what the realistic options are — without fear tactics.
- What are my options?
- That depends on your finances and where your case sits in the collection process. Common paths include installment agreements, currently not collectible status, penalty abatement, and collection appeals. An offer in compromise is not a common settlement option; it requires an individual review of your finances and eligibility. I will walk you through which options realistically apply to you.
- Can you guarantee the IRS will accept an offer or a payment plan?
- No — and you should be cautious of anyone who guarantees an outcome. Acceptance depends on your financial circumstances, your compliance history, and IRS discretion. What I can promise is an honest evaluation before you spend money on an application that is unlikely to succeed.
- Will you try to sell me services I don't need?
- No. If your situation is one you can reasonably handle yourself, I will point you to the tools to do it. I only recommend representation when it genuinely makes sense for your matter.
- Do you prepare or file tax returns?
- No. My practice is limited to IRS collection matters. If you need returns prepared, bookkeeping, or tax planning, I can refer you to professionals who do that work. If unfiled returns are part of your situation, that is a screening issue we will discuss — the returns themselves go to a qualified preparer.
- Do you work with businesses and payroll tax problems?
- Yes — on the collection side. I represent businesses with IRS collection matters, including delinquent payroll (Form 941) balances and the collection of already-assessed Trust Fund Recovery Penalties. I do not prepare payroll returns or handle the assessment side of penalties.
- Are you part of the IRS or a government program?
- No. I spent 35 years working at the IRS, but my practice today is private and independent. I am an Enrolled Agent — a credential issued by the U.S. Treasury that authorizes me to represent taxpayers — and I am not affiliated with the IRS or any government agency.
- What does it cost?
- The first 15-minute consultation is free. Fees for representation depend on the scope and time your matter requires, and are provided in writing with the client agreement before you commit to anything.
These answers are general information, not advice for your specific situation. IRS notices often carry deadlines — if yours does, act promptly.