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Dealing with IRS Debt: Proactive Strategies for Individuals and Business Owners

You open your mailbox and find that dreaded envelope: official correspondence from the IRS. For many individuals and business owners, these initials can trigger anxiety, especially if financial hiccups, like missed payments or cash flow interruptions, have occurred.Image 3

However, ignoring these issues won't make them disappear; instead, they will compound over time with interest and penalties. Fortunately, even during challenging times like a government shutdown, taking control of your tax issues is still possible.

The Hidden Costs of Inaction

The IRS may not pursue you immediately, but when it does, it's unforgiving. Delays result in:

  • Increasing interest on unpaid taxes

  • Penalties for late filings or payments

  • For businesses, the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty can be particularly severe

Even small debts can escalate quickly. For instance, $2,000 underpaid can double due to added penalties and interest. Businesses face additional risks if they fall behind on payroll taxes, where liabilities extend personally.

Step 1: Address the Problem

Facing those IRS letters is daunting, but essential. Obtain your IRS transcript or account details from IRS.gov to review your obligations. Businesses should also check for unfiled forms or missed deposits. Accurate information is your first defense.

Step 2: Know Your Options

The IRS has systems in place to assist, not destroy. Apply these solutions to manage your tax debt:

  • Payment Plans: Arrange monthly payments for individuals and businesses under certain thresholds.

  • Offer in Compromise: Negotiate to settle for less, with professional help.

  • Penalty Abatement: Previous compliance or valid reasons can help reduce penalties.

  • Currently Not Collectible Status: Temporarily halt collections due to hardships.

Each option comes with its requirements, but with professional guidance, they can work effectively.Image 2

Step 3: Prioritize Payroll

For business owners, ensuring timely payroll tax deposits is crucial. These taxes are considered trust funds owed to the government upon collection. Delays can lead to aggressive IRS actions. If you're behind, complete filings promptly, seek professional help, and employ automated solutions to ensure timely compliance.

Step 4: Act Promptly Despite IRS Delays

The current government shutdown might slow down IRS operations—but deadlines remain in place for filings and payments. Maintain records of all correspondences to protect yourself once operations resume fully. Ensure that you keep up with submissions and never assume that the shutdown provides leniency.

Step 5: Seek Professional Assistance

For debts exceeding a few thousand dollars or chronic missed payments, professional help is invaluable. An experienced tax professional can access and negotiate your IRS record promptly, structuring payment agreements that safeguard your financial health.

Step 6: Implement a Prevention Plan

Once under control, use this opportunity to safeguard your financial future by establishing systems like automated estimated payments and scheduling regular tax reviews with your accountant to avert future issues. Tax management isn't just about compliance; it's also about proactive planning.

The Takeaway

Whether you've missed estimated payments as an individual or struggled with payroll as a business owner, IRS challenges shouldn't define you. Develop a plan to regain control and prevent future surprises once operations normalize. Contact our Maitland-based office to review your IRS record and strategize a personalized resolution plan.

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