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How Tax Relief Works

how tax relief works

Owing the IRS can be one of the most stressful situations a taxpayer can face. Recent data shows that American taxpayers owed over $316 billion in back taxes, penalties, and interest as of the end of 2022. Much of this debt can be attributed to late filing, mathematical errors, and underreported income. Whatever the reason for owing taxes, many taxpayers may find themselves considering tax relief when their tax bills get too large to pay. Here’s an overview of what tax relief is and how it works.  

What Is Tax Relief? 

The phrase “tax relief” can mean many things. When speaking of tax debt, tax relief is when your tax debt is managed, settled through negotiations, or paid down with payment plans. Tax relief programs were created for taxpayers who cannot afford to pay their tax bills, as well as those who have overwhelming and overdue tax bills.  

How Does Tax Relief Work? 

Tax relief is not a “one-size-fits-all” program. Every tax relief program works differently, and the process will also differ depending on the individual taxpayer’s situation. Here we will review the most common tax relief policies and programs.  

Offer in Compromise (OIC) 

An OIC is the most popular form of tax relief as well as the least likely option for taxpayers since most OICs are denied by the IRS. An OIC allows you to settle your tax debt for less than what you owe. When selecting OIC candidates, the IRS will examine your ability to pay your tax bill, your income and expenses, and the value of your assets. 

Applying for an Offer in Compromise involves a detailed process, beginning with completing IRS Form 656, “Offer in Compromise.” Alongside this form, taxpayers must submit a comprehensive financial statement detailing income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. There are some basic requirements for an offer in compromise including:  

  • Must pay a $205 nonrefundable application fee  
  • Must make a nonrefundable initial payment  
  • Must be current on all tax returns  
  • Must not be in an open bankruptcy proceeding  

If the IRS deems that you cannot afford to pay your tax debt, or that paying your tax debt will result in financial hardship, then it may accept your offer in compromise. If this happens, they will cease collections.  

Currently-Not-Collectible (CNC) Status  

In some cases, you cannot afford both your tax bill and your expenses. If this happens, you can request a Currently Not Collectible status on your account, which delays collections. The IRS will request information regarding your income and expenses to determine your eligibility. If approved, the CNC status will temporarily cease collections on your account. However, they will continue to assess interest and penalties to your account. They will continue to review your income each year to determine if you are still eligible for CNC status. They can also still file a tax lien against you during this time and keep your tax refunds to apply them to your tax bill.  

IRS Installment Agreement 

An IRS installment agreement lets you pay your tax bill, plus accrued interest and penalties, over a set period. There are two types of IRS installment agreements: short-term and long-term. A short-term payment plan must be paid in 180 days or less. To qualify for a short-term installment agreement, you cannot owe more than $100,000 in combined tax, penalties and interest. A long-term payment plan can be paid over 180+ days. To qualify for a long-term installment agreement, you must not owe more than $50,000 in combined tax, penalties and interest. While an IRS installment agreement does not reduce your tax bill, or exclude you from penalties and interest, it might be your next best option to pay off your tax debt.   

Penalty Abatement 

Sometimes life gets in the way of responsibility. Maybe you didn’t file your taxes for one year, or you forgot to pay your tax bill. If you have an otherwise clean record with the IRS, you can request a first-time penalty abatement, which waives a tax penalty or refunds you for one already paid for. Typically, if you meet three requirements, you should qualify for this tax relief option. 

  1. You are current on your tax return filing. Tax extensions are fine.  
  2. You are current on your tax bill or have a payment plan in place. 
  3. You have a clean record with the IRS. This means no penalties during the three tax years before the year you received a penalty.  

If interest accrued from a failure-to-pay or a failure-to-file penalty, and you receive penalty abatement, then the interest associated with the penalty abatement will also be forgiven.   

How Do I Proceed with Tax Relief? 

If one of these tax relief options sounds like they can be of help to your tax situation, you should consider pursuing it. Most of these options require nothing to lose, financially speaking. Dealing with the IRS on your own can be intimidating, time-consuming, and stressful. Working with a tax professional offers several advantages over handling IRS matters independently. For one, tax professionals have expertise that goes beyond basic tax knowledge. This can help you minimize errors, save time and money, and optimize your tax planning. Perhaps the greatest benefit is knowing that a professional is handling the IRS on your behalf. Optima Tax Relief has a team of dedicated and experienced tax professionals with proven track records of success.  

If You Need Tax Help, Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation 

What is a Tax Settlement?

What is a Tax Settlement?

Tax settlements are a crucial aspect of managing one’s financial responsibilities. They provide a mechanism for individuals and businesses to resolve outstanding tax issues with the IRS. This article aims to shed light on the tax settlement process, including its various options, implications, and considerations. 

Understanding Tax Settlements 

Tax settlements, also known as tax resolutions, refer to the process of reaching an agreement with the IRS to resolve outstanding tax liabilities. This can involve negotiating the total amount owed, the payment timeline, or even the reduction of penalties and interest. There are several types of tax settlements. 

Offer in Compromise (OIC) 

An Offer in Compromise (OIC) is a program provided by the IRS. It allows taxpayers to settle their tax liability for less than the full amount owed. It’s like making a deal with the government to pay a reduced sum to satisfy your tax liability. It’s quite rare for a taxpayer to receive an OIC because of the strict eligibility requirements. 

You must show that paying the full amount of your tax liability would cause you significant financial hardship. This could be because of job loss, medical expenses, or other challenging circumstances. To obtain an OIC, you’d apply to the IRS explaining your financial situation and why you think you should pay less. It’s a bit like making your case. In your application, you propose an amount that you can realistically pay. This is the reduced sum you’re offering to settle your tax liability. If your offer is accepted, you agree with the IRS to pay the reduced amount. Once you fulfill the terms of the agreement, your tax debt is considered settled. 

Installment Agreements 

Installment Agreements are arrangements that allow taxpayers to pay their tax balance over time through a series of scheduled payments. It’s like setting up a monthly payment plan with the tax authorities, such as the IRS.  

First, you figure out how much you owe in taxes, including any penalties and interest. If you can’t pay the full amount upfront, you can request an Installment Agreement. This is like asking the IRS if you can pay in smaller, more manageable amounts over time. The IRS reviews your request and may negotiate the terms of the agreement. This includes determining the amount of each monthly payment and the duration of the agreement. Once the terms are agreed upon, you make regular monthly payments until the total tax balance is paid off. 

Currently Not Collectible (CNC) 

Currently Not Collectible (CNC) is a status that the IRS grants to taxpayers who are facing significant financial hardship and are unable to pay their tax liability at the current time. In simpler terms, it’s a temporary pause on the collection of tax payments. To qualify for CNC status, you need to demonstrate that paying your tax debt would cause you substantial financial hardship. This could be due to factors like unemployment, serious illness, or other challenging circumstances. 

You apply to the IRS, providing detailed information about your financial situation. This includes income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. The IRS reviews your application and assesses whether your financial situation qualifies for Currently Not Collectible status. They may consider factors such as your income, necessary living expenses, and the value of your assets. If approved, the IRS temporarily halts its collection efforts. This means they won’t take certain actions, such as levying your bank account or garnishing your wages, for a specified period. However, the IRS may periodically reassess your financial situation. If your circumstances improve, they may lift the CNC status and resume collection efforts. 

Penalty Abatement 

IRS penalty abatement allows taxpayers to request the removal or reduction of certain penalties imposed by the IRS for failing to meet tax obligations. In simpler terms, it’s like asking the IRS for forgiveness on specific penalties associated with your tax liability. The IRS usually forgives first-time offenders. If you’re requesting another abatement, you need to provide valid reasons for not meeting your tax obligations on time. These can include circumstances beyond your control, such as illness, natural disasters, or other factors that prevented you from fulfilling your tax responsibilities.  

In your request, you explain the reasons for your failure to comply with tax deadlines and provide supporting documentation. The IRS reviews your application and assesses whether your reasons for requesting penalty abatement are valid. They consider factors like the nature of your circumstances, the impact on your ability to meet tax obligations, and the documentation you provide. If the IRS approves your request, they may either remove the penalties entirely or reduce the amount owed. This can result in a significant reduction in the overall tax balance. 

Benefits of a Tax Settlement 

A tax settlement can offer several benefits for taxpayers facing financial difficulties. One of the primary benefits is the potential to settle your tax liability for less than the full amount owed. By successfully negotiating a tax settlement, you may avoid more severe collection actions by the IRS, such as levies, seizures, or wage garnishments. This can help protect your assets and income. A successful IRS tax settlement can be a fresh start for taxpayers who have struggled with tax liability. It provides an opportunity to resolve past issues and move forward with a clean slate. 

Tax Help for Those Seeking a Tax Settlement 

Navigating tax settlements requires a strategic approach, open communication, and a clear understanding of available options. Whether opting for an Offer in Compromise, Installment Agreement, or another settlement option, seeking professional advice and adhering to the established process is key to successfully resolving tax liabilities. Professionals can provide guidance, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure compliance with tax laws. Optima Tax Relief is the nation’s leading tax resolution firm with over $1 billion in resolved tax liabilities.  

If You Need Tax Help, Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation 

What is Innocent Spouse Relief?

What is Innocent Spouse Relief?

Tax matters can be complex and often present challenges for married couples who file joint tax returns. In certain situations, one spouse may find themselves unfairly penalized for the actions of their partner, leading to financial difficulties and strained relationships. To address this issue, the IRS offers a form of relief known as innocent spouse relief. This provision is designed to protect individuals who find themselves in an unjust tax situation due to the actions of their spouse. 

What is Innocent Spouse Relief? 

Innocent spouse relief is a provision within the U.S. tax code that allows a spouse to be relieved of responsibility for tax, interest, and penalties on a joint tax return. This is available if a taxpayer’s partner improperly reported income, claimed improper deductions, or committed other tax-related transgressions. This relief aims to protect individuals who had no knowledge of their spouse’s actions. It also includes those who were victims of deceitful financial behavior. 

Eligibility Criteria 

To qualify for innocent spouse relief, the requesting spouse must meet certain criteria outlined by the IRS. The following conditions are generally considered when evaluating eligibility: 

  • Joint Return Requirement: The innocent spouse must have filed a joint tax return with the spouse. 
  • Errors or Omissions: The innocent spouse must establish that the tax liability resulted from errors or omissions made by their spouse without their knowledge. 
  • Knowledge or Lack of Knowledge: The innocent spouse must demonstrate that, at the time of signing the joint return, they didn’t know about the understatement of tax. 
  • Unfair Hardship: Holding the innocent spouse responsible for the tax debt must be deemed unfair. The innocent spouse must show that they would suffer significant hardship if forced to pay the tax. 
  • Time Requirement: Taxpayers generally have 2 years to request innocent spouse relief. The clock starts when the IRS begins trying to collect from you. However, there are some exceptions.  

Types of Innocent Spouse Relief 

There are three types of innocent spouse relief provided by the IRS: 

  1. Traditional Innocent Spouse Relief: This relief is applicable when a spouse can prove that they had no knowledge of the erroneous items on the joint return. 
  1. Separation of Liability Relief: This relief allocates the understatement of tax between the innocent and guilty spouses. This allows the innocent spouse to be responsible only for their share. To qualify, you must be divorced, legally separated or widowed. You also could not have lived with your ex-spouse for the 12 months prior to your relief request. 
  1. Equitable Relief: If a spouse doesn’t qualify for traditional relief or separation of liability but would still suffer undue hardship, equitable relief may be granted at the discretion of the IRS. This is more common if you live in a community property state, where income and debt are shared among spouses. 

How to Apply for Innocent Spouse Relief 

To apply for innocent spouse relief, the innocent spouse must file Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief. This form requires detailed information about the joint tax return, the issues leading to the request, and supporting documentation. There are a few key things to keep in mind when requesting innocent spouse relief. 

The IRS is required by law to notify your spouse or ex-spouse of your application for spouse relief. Your spouse or ex-spouse will have the opportunity to provide their own side of the story. The IRS will then collect any taxes, interest, and penalties from your spouse or ex-spouse. The IRS will refund any eligible payments you made toward the tax bill if they find you innocent. Keep in mind, however, that some taxes, interest, and penalties will not qualify for innocent spouse relief. If this occurs, both you and your spouse will be responsible for paying the balance.  

Tax Help for Innocent Spouses 

Innocent spouse relief is a crucial provision that provides a lifeline to individuals who find themselves unfairly burdened with tax liabilities resulting from their spouse’s actions. Navigating the complexities of tax law can be challenging, and seeking professional advice is recommended for those considering innocent spouse relief. This provision not only offers financial relief but also helps to rectify injustices within the tax system, promoting fairness and equity for innocent spouses. Optima Tax Relief is the nation’s leading tax resolution firm with over $1 billion in resolved tax liabilities.  

If You Need Tax Help, Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation 

What is Currently Not Collectible Status?

what is currently not collectible status

When taxpayers are unable to pay their tax liabilities, the IRS offers Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status. This temporarily suspends debt collection efforts by the IRS. It provides individuals with breathing room to get their finances under control. In this article, we will explore what CNC status entails, who may qualify for it, and how it can provide much-needed financial relief. 

What is Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status? 

Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status is a designation provided by the IRS to taxpayers who demonstrate that they are unable to pay their tax debt due to severe financial hardship. When a taxpayer’s account is classified as CNC, the IRS temporarily halts its collection activities. In other words, it pauses liens, levies, and wage garnishments. However, the IRS will continue to assess interest and penalties during this time. They will also seize any tax refunds you receive and apply them to your tax balance. While collections typically stop, the IRS will still continue to send you tax bills as they are legally required to. 

Who qualifies for CNC status? 

As mentioned, CNC status is for taxpayers who cannot afford to pay their taxes. In general, taxpayers will need to meet general qualifications to be considered for CNC status. These include: 

  • Income under certain threshold 
  • Unemployed with no other income 
  • Little or no disposable income after basic expenses 
  • Living expenses meet IRS guidelines 
  • All income comes from Social Security, government welfare, or unemployment 

How do I apply for CNC status with the IRS? 

Taxpayers who can show proof of financial hardship may qualify for CNC status. To be considered, the IRS may require you to be current on any tax returns. You will need to submit IRS Form 433-F, Collection Information Statement, IRS Form 433-A, Collection Information Statement for Wage Earners and Self-Employed Individuals, and/or IRS Form 433-B, Collection Information Statement for Businesses. These forms collect information about your current financial situation, including your account balances, real estate values, credit card debt, employment information, living expenses, and more.  

The IRS will use the information provided to confirm your inability to fulfill your tax obligations. They may request additional information and documentation to support your claims. You should keep in mind that you need to continue to file your taxes each year that you are under CNC status, even if you cannot afford to pay your taxes. You should also continue to make estimated tax payments and federal tax deposits if you are required to.  

What happens after the IRS reviews my case? 

If the IRS determines that you are unable to pay your taxes, you will be granted CNC status. This means that the IRS will temporarily pause all collections. It’s important to understand that CNC status is not a permanent get out jail free card, nor will it stop penalties and interest or federal tax liens. It is meant to relieve financial pressure until your financial situation improves. That said, the IRS will review your financials every year to see if you can afford to pay your tax bill. If your financial situation improves, they will likely remove your account from CNC status and begin to collect again.  

Should I apply for CNC status? 

CNC status allows individuals to stabilize their finances, meet essential living expenses, and work towards resolving their tax debt. It is important to consult with a tax professional or seek guidance from the IRS to understand the eligibility criteria and application process for CNC status. Remember, while CNC status offers temporary relief, it does not eliminate your tax debt entirely, and individuals should actively seek long-term solutions to their financial challenges. Optima Tax Relief is the nation’s leading tax resolution firm with over a decade of experience helping taxpayers with tough tax situations.  

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation 

Am I Responsible for My Spouse’s Back Taxes?

am i responsible for my spouse's back taxes

Marriage is a union of two individuals, joining both their lives and responsibilities. As financial obligations and responsibilities intertwine, questions arise about whether one spouse is accountable for the other’s past tax liabilities. In this article, we will help you determine if you’re responsible for your spouse’s back taxes. We’ll explore the factors that determine liability and the potential consequences for both parties involved. 

Can the IRS Hold Me Liable for My Spouse’s Tax Debt? 

The short answer to this question is yes. However, there are certain factors that may come into play to decide for sure, including when you filed and under which filing status. When you‘re married, you suddenly have two new filing status options to choose from . You can go with married filing jointly or married filing separately. Which of these options you choose will greatly determine whether the IRS can hold you accountable for tax debt.  

When you file jointly, you assume joint and several liability. This means that both spouses are individually and collectively responsible for any taxes, interest, and penalties owed on a joint tax return. Even if you yourself did not do anything wrong, or you were unaware of any wrongdoing by your spouse, you are still 100 percent legally responsible for your shared tax debt.  

If you file separately in a year when your spouse incurred tax debt, youre not responsible for it. Filing separately means you will only be held accountable for your own tax debt.  

How Does Timing Affect Whether I’m Liable for My Spouse’s Back Taxes? 

Timing is the second factor that can determine your liability for your spouse’s tax debt. If your spouse had tax debt before you were married, only they are responsible for that debt. You can apply for Injured or Innocent Spouse Relief if the IRS attempts to collect from you. If your spouse incurs tax debt during your marriage, you will use the guidelines outlined above to determine your liability.

Remember, it all depends on which filing status you used during the year the tax debt appeared. If your spouse incurs tax debt after your marriage, you may be responsible for it if you filed jointly, even if you were legally separated. However, in this case, you might be able to apply for Separation of Liability relief. This will limit your liability if you and your spouse were no longer married or living together when they incurred their tax debt.  

Tax Relief Options for Spouses 

If your spouse incurs tax debt, you may qualify for some type of relief. Here are the most common options. 

Innocent Spouse Relief  

If your spouse did not report all income, claimed credits they weren’t eligible for, or took improper deductions on a joint return without your knowledge, you may qualify for Innocent Spouse Relief. This option is more common for taxpayers who are no longer married. To request relief, taxpayers should file Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief. Innocent spouses must file within two years of receiving an IRS notice informing you of the tax debt. 

Injured Spouse Relief 

Injured spouse relief, on the other hand, is typically for individuals who are currently married, and your portion of your joint tax refund was used to pay pre-existing debt that belongs to your spouse. This can include overdue child support, other taxes due, etc. To request this relief option, taxpayers should file Form 8279, Injured Spouse Allocation. They should file within three years of the return being filed or two years from the date the tax was paid, whichever event happened later.  

Separation of Liability Relief 

Separation of Liability Relief applies in situations where a joint return was filed, and the innocent spouse can demonstrate that they are divorced or legally separated from the other spouse. Under this relief, the IRS divides tax liabilities between the spouses based on their respective shares of income, deductions, and credits. To request relief, taxpayers should file Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief within two years of receiving an IRS notice informing you of the tax debt. 

Equitable Relief 

If you’re not eligible for innocent spouse relief or separation of liability relief, you might qualify for equitable relief. Equitable relief can save you from paying your spouse’s understated or underpaid taxes on your joint return. This relief option is typically only granted for taxes due on your spouse’s income and assets and not your own. To request relief, taxpayers should file Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief within two years of receiving an IRS notice informing you of the tax debt. 

Tax Help for Innocent Spouses 

There are scenarios that would disqualify you from relief. These include knowledge of the errors your spouse made or signing an offer in compromise with the IRS. It’s also important to note that these relief options can take months for the IRS to review and process. Be sure to consult with a qualified tax professional to make sure you know your options. Luckily, the IRS recognizes the need to protect innocent parties and provides relief options for them. Optima Tax Relief is the nation’s leading tax resolution firm with over a decade of experience helping taxpayers with tough tax situations.  

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation 

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy and Taxes

chapter 13 bankruptcy and taxes

We are told that filing for bankruptcy should be the very last resort when dealing with extreme financial hardship. This is because it has long-term effects. For example, it will leave a negative impact on your credit score for up to 10 years. It will result in decreased access to credit, loss of assets, and sometimes forfeiture of tax refunds. In addition, bankruptcies are public information, so employers, customers, family, and just about anyone can access this information. Filing for bankruptcy must be a calculated decision and one that takes all factors into consideration, including the tax implications. In this blog article, we’ll look at the tax consequences of Chapter 13 bankruptcy and provide useful information to help individuals and companies make informed decisions. 

What is Chapter 13 bankruptcy? 

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is often known as the wage earner’s bankruptcy, including self-employed individuals and sole proprietors. This is because it is for those who have income but have fallen behind on payments for items purchased on credit. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your debts are reorganized, and a payment plan is established. A court-appointed trustee will supervise you and collect and distribute your payments. As long as you satisfy the terms of the repayment plan issued by the bankruptcy court, you should be allowed to keep your house after Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Under Chapter 13, you have 3-5 years to pay off your obligations while devoting all of your disposable income to debt repayment. That implies simple living. However, the Chapter 13 option allows you to erase unsecured debt, such as credit card bills, while catching up on home payments. 

What happens to tax debt after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy? 

Tax debts cannot usually be discharged (wiped away) in Chapter 13 bankruptcy. You instead repay your tax debts over the course of your Chapter 13 repayment plan. This could take three or five years. Typically, during bankruptcy, debts will be classified as priority or nonpriority. These tax debts need to be paid in full during the repayment period. This can include income taxes, FICA, some employment taxes, penalties, and others. On the other hand, nonpriority debts are usually combined with unsecured debts you have, such as credit card debt. These are the debts that are likely to be settled with creditors for less than what you owe. However, if you still have remaining taxes due when your repayment period ends, you must pay them in full. Any outstanding tax debts will not be discharged, and you will be obligated to pay them. 

Filing Tax Returns After Bankruptcy 

Like the other two chapters, it is imperative that you still pay your taxes while in Chapter 13. It is critical to keep up with your tax duties during your bankruptcy process, including timely filing of tax returns and payment of any taxes owed by the due date. While in bankruptcy, you can technically still receive tax refunds. However, they might be delayed or utilized to pay off tax debts. 

Tax Help for Bankruptcy Filers 

It can be difficult to pay taxes while in Chapter 13 bankruptcy. You may confront a variety of difficulties. Some examples are managing all payments, paying down interest and penalties on your tax debt, changing your repayment plan to incorporate tax liabilities if it hasn’t been done already. Taking care of both tax payments and overdue tax bills during Chapter 13 can be overwhelming, but it really is crucial to not only understand your tax obligations but also figure out how to manage your debt during your repayment plan. Rest assured, working with experienced bankruptcy lawyers and tax professionals can help mitigate the situation and help you successfully navigate the bankruptcy process. If you need tax help, Optima Tax Relief is here.  

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