The Growing Cost of Back Taxes
When a taxpayer owes back taxes, the balance does not stay static. The failure-to-pay penalty accrues at 0.5% per month, and interest is charged at the federal short-term rate plus 3%, compounded daily. A $50,000 debt can grow to $75,000 or more within a few years. The IRS has a ten-year collection window with access to liens, levies, and garnishments.
Installment Agreements
For balances of $50,000 or less, streamlined agreements require no financial disclosure. The taxpayer pays the full balance within 72 months or before the CSED. For larger balances, the IRS requires Form 433-A/F financial disclosure to determine payment amounts.
Offer in Compromise
Allows settling for less than the full amount by demonstrating the offer represents the most the IRS can expect to collect. The IRS calculates Reasonable Collection Potential: equity in assets plus future disposable income. The process takes 6-12 months with suspended collection during review.
Currently Not Collectible Status
When paying would create hardship, CNC stops all active collection. The debt remains and accrues interest, but the CSED continues running. Particularly valuable when the statute is approaching expiration.
Penalty Abatement
A significant portion of the balance may be penalties. The IRS can abate penalties for reasonable cause (illness, disaster, reliance on professional advice) or through First Time Penalty Abatement for taxpayers with clean three-year compliance history. FTA can save thousands with a simple phone call.
Every tax debt has a resolution path. The question is not whether a solution exists, but which solution best fits your situation.