Tax Help Center
Your options when you owe the IRS
Every IRS problem has a path forward. Start with the option that matches your situation, then decide whether to handle it yourself or hire a professional.
Tax relief options
Each option has different requirements and trade-offs. Eligibility is determined by the IRS on a case-by-case basis.
Offer in Compromise
Settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed.
- May reduce the total you owe
- Stops most collection while pending
- Based on ability to pay
Best for: Financial hardship or doubt as to liability
Learn morePayment Plans
Pay your balance over time with a monthly installment agreement.
- Predictable monthly payments
- Reduces the failure-to-pay penalty rate
- Helps prevent levies
Best for: Most taxpayers who owe and have filed
Learn moreTax Liens & Levies
Understand and resolve IRS collection actions against your assets.
- Stop wage garnishment
- Release bank levies
- Address lien filings
Best for: Active collection cases
Learn morePenalty Relief
Request removal or reduction of IRS penalties and related interest.
- First-time penalty abatement
- Reasonable cause relief
- Interest on abated penalties
Best for: Generally a clean compliance history
Learn moreAudit Defense
Professional representation during IRS audits and examinations.
- Representation before the IRS
- Document preparation
- Negotiating the outcome
Best for: All audit types
Learn moreUnfiled Returns
Get current by filing missing returns and limiting penalties.
- File back-year returns
- Limit further penalties
- Prevent substitute returns
Best for: One or more missing returns
Learn more
Keep researching
Tax relief guides
In-depth guides to IRS procedures and relief programs.
Browse guidesIRS notices
Find out what your notice means and what to do next.
Look up a noticeCompany rankings
See how the leading tax relief companies compare.
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