Penalty Abatement, as the IRS calls it, is the process by which a penalty can be reduced or eliminated. Penalty Abatement can be seen as a form of tax relief known as Fresh Start. Penalty Abatement can only be applied by the IRS for a reason that is reasonable. You can request Penalty Abatement at any level in IRS collections. The Penalty Abatement that can be granted by a local IRS office is limited to $100. You can request Penalty Abatement for free.

We understand what you are thinking. This Fresh Start Program sounds too good to be true. The good news? The IRS program is completely legitimate.

A Offer in Compromise is possible to resolve any federal tax liability under the Internal Revenue Code. This includes business taxes (payroll and income) as well as individual taxes. Both individual taxes (income and trust fund recovery penalties) as well as business taxes (payroll, income, etc. It cannot settle taxes already assessed. In the United States, income tax is assessed on the date it is due or, if it is filed after that date, on its receipt. April 15th is the due date for income tax in the United States. A tax liability not yet assessed cannot be included in an offer in compromise. Certain taxes, however are due throughout the calendar year and are eligible to be included.

Unlike the other three Fresh Start tax programs, Currently Non-Collectible Status is just that: a “status” rather than a form of Fresh Start tax relief. The IRS reserves the right to place a taxpayer in Currently Non-Collectible Status if the taxpayer cannot pay their taxes.While this status does not necessarily remove tax debt, it does stop any collection activities. Such activity includes bank levies, wage garnishments, tax liens, and threatening letters from the IRS. Currently Non-Collectible Status allows a taxpayer to find Fresh Start tax relief in peace, without the IRS coming after them.To qualify for Currently Non-Collectible Status, you will need to meet the IRS Fresh Start Program qualifications, which we discuss in more detail below. We highly recommend that you consult with a tax professional before requesting this status from the IRS. Should you try to apply for the IRS Fresh Start Initiative Program on your own, the IRS will attempt to get you to agree to terms that are more favorable for them.Additionally, once the time period of your Currently Non-Collectible Status ends, the IRS will begin again in their efforts to collect on payments, and those phone calls and letters threatening penalties will continue. A tax relief company can help you stay in Currently Non-Collectible Status for as long as possible, and can help you develop a strategy for when you leave Non-Collectible Status.

The IRS gives special consideration to people with physical or psychological infirmities. In particular, the IRS has always favored offers from people with bleak financial prospects due to advanced age -- over 60 in particular. And the IRS will consider HIV or drug- or alcohol-related problems, as well as a family member's problem if it has a detrimental financial effect on you.

Of course, we’ve only touched on the basics of the program. If you have any further questions, would like a firm answer regarding whether you’re eligible for the program or not, or want to apply for the Fresh Start Initiative, don’t hesitate to contact us! Whatever your situation may be, our qualified, experienced, and friendly tax professionals will be able to guide you in the right direction.

Tax benefits can help with a variety of education-related expenses. These expenses include tuition for college, elementary, and secondary school.

Economic Impact Payments, advance payments of the Child Tax Credit and more are part of your coronavirus relief.

The IRS provides tax relief solutions to taxpayers of all income levels. Depending on your financial situation, you may be eligible for one type or another of this relief. For more information about the relief options available to you, consult a tax professional.

Nearly all families with kids qualify. Some income limitations apply. For example, only couples making less than $150,000 and single parents (also called Head of Household) making less than $112,500 will qualify for the additional 2021 Child Tax Credit amounts. Families with high incomes may receive a smaller credit or may not qualify for any credit at all. For more detail on the phase-outs for higher income families, see “How much will I receive in Child Tax Credit payments?”

When you apply for an offer in compromise, you’re responsible for completing and including several forms. In addition to the actual offer, you must include a collection information statement for individuals and/or businesses.

Although you may think that the IRS Fresh Start initiative sounds great, you might not be certain if your tax situation is eligible.