Dealing with Unpaid Taxes: Don’t Let the Problem Fester

  October 24, 2023 

   

Filing our tax returns every year is a responsibility most of us take seriously. But what if you’ve consistently filed your returns yet struggled to pay the total amount you owe to the IRS? Financial constraints sometimes get in the way, and you plan to catch up on your payments later. It’s a scenario that many people face, and it can lead to a daunting situation.

Unfortunately, when you can’t fully meet your tax obligations, the penalties and interest on your overdue taxes can quickly snowball, significantly inflating your total debt to the government. In this blog post, we’ll explore the consequences of unpaid back taxes and how you can proactively address this issue.

The Escalating Problem of Unpaid Taxes

If you’re delinquent on your taxes and haven’t heard from the IRS, don’t breathe a sigh of relief. The IRS may take actions to recover the money you owe, and these actions can have severe implications for your financial stability. Here are some of the steps the IRS might take:

  • Property Liens: The IRS can place a lien on your property. This means they have a legal claim to your assets, making it difficult for you to sell or refinance your property.
  • Bank Account and Wage Levies: The IRS may impose levies on your bank accounts or wages if you have unpaid back taxes. This means they can seize a portion of your income or freeze your bank accounts, making it challenging to access your money.
  • Interest and Penalties: As mentioned earlier, the longer you delay payment, the more interest and penalties accumulate. This can quickly turn a manageable tax debt into a financial nightmare.

Taking Control of Your Tax Liability

The potential damage from unpaid back taxes can be financially ruinous, but it’s often avoidable. Here are some steps you can take to address your tax liability issues:

  • Seek Professional Help: Dealing with the IRS can be complex and intimidating. Consider consulting a tax professional to help you assess your situation and explore your options.
  • Negotiate a Payment Plan: You can often negotiate a workable payment plan with the IRS. They understand that financial hardships can happen to anyone, and they may be willing to work with you to set up a repayment schedule that fits your budget.
  • Consider an Offer in Compromise: In some cases, the IRS may accept an Offer in Compromise, which allows you to settle your tax debt for less than the total amount owed. This option is available to individuals who meet specific criteria.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up to date with your tax situation. Please pay attention to IRS notices and respond promptly to any communication from them. Ignoring the issue will only make it worse.
  • Plan for the Future: Once you’ve resolved your tax liability issues, make sure you’re better prepared for the future. Adjust your tax withholding or estimated tax payments to avoid a similar situation in the coming years.

Conclusion

Unpaid back taxes are a problem that rarely goes away on its own. If you find yourself in this situation, take action before the IRS. Take control of your tax liability, seek professional guidance, and work towards a resolution. The sooner you address the issue, the sooner you can regain your financial peace of mind. Contact us today, and let’s find a solution to your tax concerns. Your financial future depends on it.