Tax Services
IRS Tax Advocate
A plain explanation of the Taxpayer Advocate Service and the situations where it actually applies.
There's a Backstop Inside the IRS Itself
TAS is a separate, independent office inside the IRS built to step in when a tax issue is creating real financial hardship, or when the usual process just isn't moving. Not sure if your case fits? We can help sort out whether TAS is the right avenue, or whether an installment agreement or another option makes more sense.
A part of the IRS built specifically to intervene on hardship cases and stalled processes.
Key Things to Know
- What the Taxpayer Advocate Service actually is
- When it's the right tool
- Getting help regardless of which path fits
Ready when you are
Operational Milestones
Assess
We take a full look at your tax debt, filing history, and financial picture to see which relief programs are actually available to you.
Strategize
From there we build a plan around what fits - OIC, an installment agreement, penalty abatement, or CNC status - and negotiate with the IRS directly on your behalf.
Resolve
Once things are settled, we confirm your account is in good standing and keep an eye on your compliance so the problem doesn't come back.
Included Services & Outcomes
Tax Debt Doesn't Sit Still - It Grows
Left alone, unpaid tax debt doesn't stay the same size. Penalties, interest, liens, levies, and wage garnishments all escalate the longer you wait.
Questions
IRS Tax Advocate FAQ
What exactly is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
It's a collection of IRS initiatives meant to make settling tax debt more manageable - including Offers in Compromise (paying less than the full balance) and Installment Agreements with more workable terms than in the past.
Is it actually possible to settle for less than what I owe?
It is, through an Offer in Compromise - the IRS can agree to less than the full balance if paying it all would cause genuine financial hardship. Whether you qualify comes down to your income, expenses, what assets you hold, and your overall ability to pay.
What does it mean to be placed in Currently Not Collectible status?
It tells the IRS you're not currently able to pay, which pauses collection activity - levies and wage garnishments included - for the time being. Interest and penalties can still build in the background, though.
Should I be working with a tax attorney instead of an enrolled agent?
Either one can represent you before the IRS - which makes more sense really depends on your specific case. We can help you figure out what your situation actually calls for.
How long does it usually take to resolve tax debt with the IRS?
It depends on the program and how complicated your case is - an installment agreement can often be set up within weeks, while an Offer in Compromise typically runs 6 to 12 months before it's resolved.
Resources
IRS Tax Advocate insights
Talk to MK Tax & Accounting about irs tax advocate
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