How the engagement starts
The first step is a transcript pull and a compliance check: which years are unfiled, what the IRS shows as owed, and where you sit on the collection ladder. From there the plan is concrete: file these returns, in this order, then pursue this resolution. You know the realistic outcome before committing to the full engagement.
Back filings
The first step is always getting the missing returns in. The IRS can't evaluate a payment plan or Offer in Compromise until your filing status is current. We file the past-due years in the correct order.
Installment agreements
Most back-tax situations resolve with a monthly payment plan. Balances under $50,000 qualify for a streamlined agreement with minimal financial disclosure. Larger balances require Form 433-A or 433-F financial statements.
Offer in Compromise
An OIC settles IRS debt for less than the full amount when paying in full would create financial hardship. The IRS accepts about one-third of applications. Documentation requirements are substantial and the process takes 6 to 12 months.
Currently Not Collectible
If you genuinely can't pay anything right now, CNC status pauses collection activity. The debt remains but levy and lien actions stop. Reviewed annually.
Common questions
- How far back do I have to file?
- The IRS generally requires the last six years of returns to consider you compliant for collection purposes, though sometimes fewer. We assess the specific situation.
- Will the IRS forgive penalties?
- First-Time Abatement is available for many taxpayers in good prior standing. Reasonable cause abatement is available with documentation. We file both.
- Should I hire one of those TV tax relief companies?
- Due diligence matters. Those firms often charge large upfront fees and subcontract the actual work. We handle the work ourselves, on a transparent fee basis.
- Will collection stop while we work on this?
- Filing for an installment agreement, Offer in Compromise, or CDP hearing generally pauses levy action while the request is pending. Getting something on file quickly is often the first priority for exactly that reason.
Related
Other services we offer
IRS Audit Representation
Herman Viglione, EA, represents taxpayers in IRS and state audits. Correspondence, office, and field audits handled remotely for clients in any state.
Florida Business Incorporation
Form an LLC, S-corp, or C-corp with the Florida Division of Corporations. Entity structure, EIN, sales tax account, and IRS election in place from day one.
DBA / Fictitious Name Registration
Florida fictitious name (DBA) registration with the Division of Corporations, including the name search, newspaper publication, and five-year renewal tracking.
Worker's Compensation Exemption
File or renew a Florida worker's compensation exemption for corporate officers and LLC members with the Department of Financial Services. Renewals tracked.