IRS Fresh Start Program
The large national tax resolution firms love to talk about the IRS Fresh Start Program, but their sleezy marketing leads many taxpayers to be skeptical about it being real. Let’s get to the truth.
Updated February 20, 2022 | 5 Min Read
In this article we will discuss:
What Is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
The IRS Fresh Start Program was created by the IRS in 2011 to help individual taxpayers and small businesses that are struggling to pay federal taxes get back on track. So, yes it’s real!
The program created more flexible Offer in Compromise terms and is designed to help the most financially distressed taxpayers clear up their tax problems quicker than ever before.
What you need to understand is that the IRS doesn’t want to spend resources trying to collect from you. Depending on your circumstances they are willing to compromise and forgive some, or all, of what you owe.
Ultimately their goal is to collect whatever they can get and at the same time get you back in compliance and continuing to pay in the future. The collection of IRS code changes that make up the Fresh Start Program make it easier to settle with the IRS and get your life back on track.
The tools at your disposal to do this are:
- Offer in Compromise (OIC)
- Installment Agreement (IA)
- Partial Pay Installment Agreement (PPIA)
- Currently Non Collectable (CNC)
- Penalty Abatement
Who Qualifies for the IRS Fresh Start Program?
Technically the program is available to everyone, but to figure out which settlement option is best for you takes some analysis.
Everything is based on your current financial position. First the IRS will look at your ability to borrow against any assets you own to pay down the debt. Don’t worry this does not mean you have to sell your home to pay the IRS! If you have equity, they may want you to see if you can borrow some money against it.
The next and most important thing they look at is your current income level and determine your potential for future income. Don’t waste your time trying to get a job way below your skill level to get an OIC – it won’t work!
Next, they will consider your expenses relating to the health and welfare of you and your family. For a few of these items the IRS looks at your standard of living versus local and national standards. The IRS has a list of allowable expenses that you’re entitled to such as food, clothing, housing, automobiles, and more. This is one of the areas where having professional representation can really play a big role. A good resolution expert will help you maximize your allowable expenses to put you in the best possible position to get a deal.
Your offer in compromise, Installment Agreement, or currently non collectable potential will all be based on your assets and how much income you have left over after your allowable expenses as well as your future income potential.
So, if you’re reading this and can’t afford to pay the IRS what you owe after you pay all of your bills. It’s worth a conversation with a tax pro to see what you might qualify for.
How to Apply for IRS Fresh Start Program
Like we mentioned the Fresh Start Program is a collection of IRS code changes to help you more easily qualify for relief. There is not a specific place to apply – instead you need to start the tax relief process.
This would include finding a qualified tax resolution pro, getting any back tax returns filed, and then doing a detailed financial analysis. At this point you would be able to see what resolutions you can qualify for.
Start Your Tax Relief Journey
You don’t need to do this on your own. Let the team at TaxpayerBillofRights.com help you find a qualified Certified Tax Resolution Specialist!
On a similar note…
I got a letter from the IRS – Now What?
IRS Fresh Start Program
Do I Need a Tax Attorney?
Navigating the IRS on your own is a real challenge. Find a trustworthy practitioner to help with your tax problem.
We specialize in connecting taxpayers struggling with IRS issues and trusted tax professionals that can help them get back on track!
Our partnership with the American Society of Tax Problems Solvers (ASTPS) gives us access to the top tax resolution experts across the country. There is no way for a practitioner to buy their way in, they can only apply after they have met our rigorous requirements.
Click the button below to see if you qualify for tax relief and to start the tax resolution process right now! You have absolutely nothing to lose - this is a completely free service for taxpayers!
On a similar note...
I got a letter from the IRS – Now What?
IRS Fresh Start Program
Do I Need a Tax Attorney?
You don't have to do this on your own.
We've worked hard to create a network of the best IRS tax relief experts in the country! Each one has been fully vetted and have met our rigorous experience, education, and training standards.
Your first step to IRS tax relief is to click the button below and fill out our tax relief evaluation. After you finish you will be able to set up a 100% free consultation with a licensed tax pro in our network. You have absolutely nothing to lose, and worst case you'll gain insight into your options!