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Dealing with Tax Debt: Steps to Resolve on Your Own

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Dealing with Tax Debt: Steps to Resolve on Your Own 1

Dealing with Tax Debt: Steps to Resolve on Your Own 2

Understanding Tax Debt

It can be challenging to know what steps to take when you are struggling with tax debt. You might feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. Understanding tax debt is the first step in resolving it. Tax debts occur when the amount of tax you owe is more than the amount you paid. This debt can come from various sources, including unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest due on unpaid taxes. If you owe taxes, the IRS will send a notice asking for payment. The notice will include details of your tax debt, including the amount you owe, the deadline for payment, and the consequences of non-payment.

Ways to Resolve Tax Debt

Once you have identified the source of your tax debt, you need to take steps to resolve it. Here are some ways to resolve tax debt:

  • Pay the amount owed in full: If you have the financial means to pay the entire amount owed, it’s the best option. This will get rid of the tax debt and any associated penalties or interest.
  • Installment Agreement: An installment agreement is a payment plan you negotiate with the IRS to pay back your tax debt over time. You can request an installment agreement through the IRS’s Online Payment Agreement (OPA) or by contacting the IRS directly.
  • Offer in Compromise: An offer in compromise is an agreement between the IRS and you, where you pay less than the full amount of tax owed. You must prove to the IRS that paying the full amount would be a financial hardship.
  • Currently Not Collectible: If you can’t pay the tax owed, and you don’t have enough income or assets to make payments, the IRS may classify your account as Currently Not Collectible. This means that the IRS will temporarily stop attempts to collect the debt.

    • Steps to Resolve Tax Debt on Your Own

    Here are some steps you can take to resolve your tax debt on your own:

  • Review your tax notice: Carefully review your tax notice and ensure that the information about your tax debt and penalties is correct. If you disagree with the IRS’s assessment of your taxes, you can appeal the decision.
  • Research your options: Research the options available to resolve your tax debt. Understand the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best fits your financial situation.
  • Create a budget: Create a budget that includes both your expenses and your monthly payments for your tax debt. Stick to your budget and avoid unnecessary expenses.
  • Negotiate with the IRS: Negotiate with the IRS to reduce penalties or interest on your tax debt. The IRS may sometimes be willing to waive or reduce these fees.
  • Be consistent with payments: If you opt for an installment agreement, make sure that you make consistent payments. Missing payments can lead to penalties and interest.
  • Track your progress: Keep track of the payments you make and your progress towards paying off your tax debt. Celebrate your victories, however small, to keep motivated and on track.

    • Conclusion

    Dealing with tax debt is never easy, but by understanding your options and taking steps to resolve the debt on your own, you can protect your financial future. Remember, the IRS will work with you to resolve your tax debt, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. By taking responsibility and committing to a plan, you can reduce the stress and move forward with financial peace of mind. Looking to deepen your knowledge on the subject? Check out this external resource we’ve prepared for you, providing supplementary and pertinent details to broaden your grasp of the subject. https://www.helloresolve.com!

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