Can the IRS take my property without telling me first?

In most every case, the IRS cannot take your property until they send you a letter stating their intentions.  This letter – called a “Final Notice of Intent to Levy” - is the government’s last attempt to reach you before they start levying your wages, bank accounts or other property.
The Final Notice of Intent to Levy gives you very important rights [...]

Offer in compromise: Avoiding an unseen IRS settlement cost

In today’s difficult economic times, every dollar counts.  An offer in compromise may help, but for many there is a hidden cost – lost tax refunds.  
Tax refunds increase the amount you pay to the IRS in an offer in compromise.   
Here’s why:  The terms of an offer in compromise requires the IRS to keep your tax refund for [...]

Does bankruptcy stop IRS audits?

Bankruptcy is a powerful tool in solving IRS problems – but can it stop the IRS from auditing you?
A centerpiece of bankruptcy law is the concept of an “automatic stay.”    The automatic stay stops creditors from calling and writing to enforce or collect a debt from you.  The “stay” on your creditors – including the IRS – [...]

Self-employed? All IRS levies are not created equal

IRS levies on those who are self-employed are serious, but it may not always be as bad as it seems. 
If you are self-employed, and if your right to a payment is dependent on the performance of future services – meaning the “job” has not yet been completed – an IRS levy reaches nothing. Your right [...]

Tips for dealing with Automated Collection Service

ACS can be intimidating – big, impersonal and far away on a 1-800 number.
Most IRS collection letters are sent from an Automated Collection Service Center (ACS).  ACS handles the incoming calls from the collection notices. It is responsible for levy releases, lien determinations and setting up installment agreements.
Here are some tips for successfully navigating ACS:

Be respectful.  It [...]