Common questions about tax trouble

Tax resolution generally refers to professional help addressing a tax debt or collection problem with the IRS or a state tax agency. That can include payment plans, settlement requests, penalty relief, help with unfiled returns, or working to pause or release certain collection actions. EzziTax does not resolve tax cases itself. We provide general information and, if you ask us to, connect you with independent tax resolution providers.

No. Using this website, getting answers to general questions, and submitting the eligibility form is free for you. If we connect you with a tax resolution company, that introduction is also free for you. If you later hire a provider, that company's fees would be between you and them and should be explained before you agree to any paid work.

No. Information on this site is for general educational purposes only. It is not tax, legal, accounting, or financial advice, and it is not a prediction of what the IRS or a state will do in your case. EzziTax is not a law firm, certified public accounting firm, or enrolled agent practice, and using this site does not create an attorney-client, CPA-client, or fiduciary relationship.

If you submit the form and give consent, EzziTax and one or more of its independent tax resolution partners may contact you by phone, text, or email to discuss your situation and whether they can help. You choose whether to work with any provider. Consent is not a condition of purchase, and you can opt out of text messages by replying STOP.

Unfiled returns are a common issue and often need to be addressed as part of resolving a tax debt. In many cases, the IRS or a state will want required returns filed before approving a payment plan or other relief. If you are missing returns or are not sure, say so on the form. A qualified tax professional can help determine what still needs to be filed. This is general information, not filing advice.

It is generally unwise to ignore tax notices. Letters can include deadlines, proposed assessments, collection warnings, or rights to appeal. Missing a deadline can limit your options. Keep the notices and consider getting professional help if you do not understand them. EzziTax can connect you with an independent provider; we cannot tell you how to respond to a specific notice.

Sometimes, through a program such as an Offer in Compromise, but many people do not qualify. These programs typically look at your income, necessary living expenses, and assets, and they are not a simple discount on your bill. Be cautious of anyone who guarantees a settlement. A careful review of your finances is required, and only the tax agency can accept an offer.

It is an arrangement to pay a tax balance over time, usually in monthly payments. The IRS and many states offer installment agreements if you cannot pay in full. You may still owe interest and, in some cases, penalties while you pay. Keeping required returns and payments current is typically required to stay on the plan.

Currently Not Collectible (CNC) is a status the IRS may grant if you can show that you cannot afford to pay your tax debt and meet basic living expenses. If approved, active collection such as levies may be paused for a time. The debt usually remains, interest may continue, and the IRS can review your situation later. It is temporary hardship relief, not forgiveness.

Yes, after required notices, the IRS and some state agencies can levy wages, bank accounts, or other assets to collect a tax debt. A wage levy can take a substantial part of a paycheck. If you have received a levy or garnishment notice, time matters. Options may exist to release or prevent a levy, depending on your circumstances, such as setting up a qualifying payment arrangement or showing financial hardship.

A Notice of Federal Tax Lien is a public claim against your property for unpaid tax. It can affect your ability to sell or refinance and may appear in public records that some lenders or credit services review. Paying the tax, qualifying for certain withdrawal or discharge options, or making other arrangements may lead to a release or withdrawal in some cases. Rules differ for state tax liens.

Penalty abatement is a request to reduce or remove certain penalties (not the underlying tax). Possible grounds can include first-time relief for some IRS penalties or reasonable cause, such as a serious illness or other circumstances beyond your control. You generally need to explain and, when asked, document the reason. Approval is not guaranteed.

Innocent spouse relief and related options may help someone who filed a joint return and believes they should not be held fully responsible for tax understated or unpaid by the other spouse. There are specific eligibility rules and time limits. This is a formal request to the tax agency, and the facts of the marriage, the return, and what each person knew can all matter.

For many federal tax assessments, the IRS generally has a limited period to collect, often described as a 10-year collection statute, though it can be paused or extended in certain situations (for example, while an Offer in Compromise is pending, or in some bankruptcy or installment agreement situations). State rules differ. Do not assume a debt has expired without a professional review of your accounts.

We record your answers and contact information, along with your consent, and let you know if you may qualify for a review. A tax resolution partner may then reach out to discuss your situation and next steps. You are not obligated to hire anyone. If you have an urgent levy, garnishment, or deadline, tell the person who contacts you right away.

EzziTax works with independent tax resolution providers that have expressed interest in helping people with tax debt. They are not owned by EzziTax, and they are not us. You should ask any provider about their credentials, fees, and what they will and will not do before you sign an agreement. We do not provide the tax representation itself.