Latest Facts and News
- The IRS increased the standard deduction for 2024 by $750 for married couples filing jointly.
- New IRS regulations aim to improve taxpayer service and reduce backlogs.
- The IRS has expanded its digital communication options for taxpayers.
- Recent changes to tax laws may affect how tax resolution specialists approach certain cases.
Tax filing and payment are important for both citizens and the government, ensuring public services run smoothly. But it’s not an easy task; tax laws are complex, deadlines can be confusing, and even small mistakes can lead to serious consequences.
While the IRS offers relief programs, they come with IRS forms, documentation, eligibility requirements, and strict procedures that aren’t easy for the average taxpayer to get through. This is where a tax resolution specialist becomes essential. They have the expertise to handle these challenges, ensuring everything is done correctly to prevent delays, denials, or further financial trouble.
That’s why we’ve created this blog post: to help you understand what they do, why their expertise is necessary, and how they can help you resolve IRS issues the right way.
What is a Tax Resolution Specialist?
A tax resolution specialist is a professional who helps people and businesses fix tax problems with the IRS. If you owe back taxes, are facing an audit, or have tax liens or wage garnishments, they step in to negotiate with the IRS on your behalf.
Think of them as your IRS problem solver, making sure you get fair treatment while finding the best way to settle your tax issues.
Qualifications and Certifications
Not everyone can handle the complexities of tax resolution. Only the best professionals earn the Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS) designation, which is awarded by the American Society of Tax Problem Solvers (ASTPS).
What It Takes to Become a CTRS?
- Specialized Training: CTRS professionals complete over 50 hours of intensive training focused on IRS audits, tax debt relief, penalty abatement, and more.
- Comprehensive Exam: To earn the CTRS designation, candidates must pass a rigorous exam demonstrating their deep knowledge of tax resolution strategies.
- Professional Licensing: Every CTRS is already a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Enrolled Agent (EA), or Attorney, ensuring they meet strict professional standards. Unlicensed tax professionals cannot become CTRS.
- Ongoing Education: IRS policies and tax laws change constantly. CTRS professionals are required to complete continuing education every year, ensuring they stay up to date with the latest tax resolution strategies.
Services Offered by Tax Resolution Specialists
Tax resolution specialists offer a range of services to help with IRS problems, including:
- IRS Audit Representation: If you’re being audited, they protect your rights and handle the IRS for you.
- IRS negotiation Services: They work to lower what you owe through Offer in Compromise or Installment Agreements.
- Penalty Abatement: Helps reduce or remove IRS penalties.
- Unfiled Tax Returns: Gets you back on track by filing missing tax returns.
- Tax Liens & Levies Removal: Stops wage garnishments and helps remove tax liens.
- Innocent Spouse Relief: Protects you if you’re unfairly stuck with a spouse’s tax debt.
- Currently Not Collectable Status: If you cannot afford to pay your tax debt, a specialist can help you qualify for CNC status, preventing IRS collections until your financial situation improves.
IRS Problems Aren’t Simple!
A tax issue with the IRS isn’t just another bill; they can seize assets, garnish wages, and place liens on property, leaving you with little room to recover.
Certified Tax Resolution Specialists at Hall’s IRS use proven strategies to take control of the situation before it’s too late. Every step is handled with precision, experience, and a deep understanding of IRS procedures.
Benefits of Hiring a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist
A Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS) takes the stress out of IRS problems and works to get the best outcome for you. Here’s why they’re worth hiring:
They Know Tax Laws Inside and Out
A CTRS understands IRS rules and knows how to provide quick IRS problem resolution. They make sure everything is done right, helping you avoid mistakes that could cost you more money or cause more trouble.
They Work to Reduce What You Owe
If you have tax debt, a CTRS can become a tax settlement specialist and can negotiate with the IRS to lower your payments, remove penalties, or even settle for less than what you owe through programs like an Offer in Compromise. They fight to get you the best deal possible.
They Deal with the IRS So You Don’t Have To
Getting letters from the IRS or dealing with an audit can be overwhelming. A CTRS handles all the calls, paperwork, and meetings with the IRS for you, so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing or missing deadlines.
They Help You Save Money in the Long Run
A CTRS does more than just fix tax problems; they help prevent future issues. By making sure your taxes are in order, they can save you from expensive mistakes and keep you from getting into trouble with the IRS again.
How to Choose the Right Tax Resolution Specialist?
Finding the right tax resolution specialist is necessary when dealing with IRS issues. Here’s what to look for when choosing the right professional:
Checklist for Choosing a Tax Resolution Specialist
- Look for a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS) or an Enrolled Agent (EA), as these professionals are trained to represent you before the IRS.
- Make sure they have successfully handled cases like yours, whether it’s back taxes, audits, or penalty abatements.
- A reliable specialist should be upfront about their fees, offering flat rates or transparent payment plans.
- They should manage all calls, letters, and negotiations with the IRS so you don’t have to.
- Check online reviews, testimonials, and references to verify their reputation.
Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring1. What experience do you have with cases like mine? 2. How do you charge for your services? 3. How long will my case take? 4. Will you handle all IRS communication? 5. What certifications do you hold? |
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Not all tax resolution specialists are reliable. Some make big promises but fail to deliver. Avoid these warning signs when hiring a tax professional:
- Unrealistic Guarantees: Claims like “We can erase your tax debt completely” or “Guaranteed IRS approval” are misleading. The IRS decides on resolutions case by case.
- Upfront Payment Demands: Be cautious if they demand full payment before any work begins or refuse to offer a payment plan.
- Lack of Credentials: If they are not a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS), Enrolled Agent (EA), or CPA, they are not legally allowed to represent you before the IRS.
- Vague or Evasive Answers: If they can’t clearly explain their fees, process, or qualifications, that’s a red flag. Transparency is key.
- High-Pressure Tactics: If they rush you into signing a contract or use scare tactics to push services, they may not have your best interests in mind.
- Negative Reviews or No Online Presence: Multiple complaints, bad reviews, or a lack of verifiable client references could indicate poor service or even a scam.
The Tax Resolution Process: What to Expect
Working with a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist can make the IRS process easier and more effective. Here’s how they handle tax resolution from start to finish:
1. Find Out What’s Wrong
The first thing a tax specialist does is analyze your tax situation to figure out exactly what needs to be fixed. They will:
- Contact the IRS to get details on what you owe and any missing tax returns.
- Determine how far along you are in the IRS collection process.
- Review your financial situation to find the best resolution options.
This step helps create a clear plan to move forward.
2. Stop the IRS From Taking Your Money
If the IRS is taking money from your paycheck or putting a lien on your property, your tax specialist will work to pause collections and work hard too for tax lien removal They might:
- Request a collection hold to stop wage garnishments and asset seizures.
- File an appeal or set up a temporary payment plan if the IRS rejects the hold request.
This step gives you more time to work out a long-term solution without the immediate pressure of IRS enforcement.
3. File Any Missing Tax Returns
Before you can qualify for any tax relief, the IRS requires all overdue tax returns to be filed. Your specialist will:
- Collect all necessary financial documents.
- Determine the best way to file based on your resolution strategy.
- Be sure that your tax returns are submitted correctly to avoid further issues
4. Settle Your Tax Debt
The specialist then negotiates with the IRS to get you the best outcome, which may include:
- A payment plan to pay in smaller amounts.
- An Offer in Compromise to settle for less.
- A penalty reduction to lower fees.
- A non-collectible status if you can’t afford payments.
With a tax expert handling everything, you can focus on moving forward while they work out a solution.
Timeline and Potential Outcomes
The time it takes to resolve a tax issue depends on the complexity of the case and the type of resolution needed. While some cases can be handled in a few weeks, others may take over two years. Below is a table of common tax relief options and how long they typically take:
| Resolution Type | Estimated Timeline |
| Offer in Compromise (OIC) | If you have unfiled tax returns, they must be submitted before the OIC process begins. Once submitted, the IRS can take 6 to 9 months to review. If denied, the appeals process may take another 6-12 months. |
| Wage Levy Release | Once a Power of Attorney (POA) is obtained, a tax professional can contact the IRS to negotiate a release. In some cases, this can be resolved within a week. |
| Installment Agreement | Streamlined installment agreements can be handled online quickly, while others requiring documentation can take 6 months to a year. |
Since every tax situation is different, the best way to get a timeline is to speak with Hall’s IRS. Our Certified Tax Resolution Specialists (CTRS) will review your case, gather the necessary documents, and give you a realistic estimate of how long it will take to reach a resolution.
Cost of Tax Resolution Services
Tax relief services can vary in cost based on the complexity of your case, the amount you owe, and the type of service you need. Fees typically range from $250 to $7,500, with different pricing structures depending on the service provided.
Here is a table showing common tax relief services & costs:
| Service | Cost Range | What It Covers |
| Discovery/Investigation Fee | $250 – $750 | Initial review of your tax debt, financial situation, and IRS records to determine the best resolution strategy. |
| Offer in Compromise | $2,000 – $7,500 | Negotiate with the IRS to settle your debt for less than what you owe. Requires significant paperwork and expertise. |
| Installment Agreements | $1,500 – $5,000 | Setting up a structured payment plan to pay off your tax debt in manageable monthly installments. |
| Penalty Abatement | $250 – $1,000 | Reducing or eliminating IRS penalties by proving financial hardship or reasonable cause for non-payment. |
| Innocent Spouse Relief | $3,500 – $5,000 | Protecting spouses from tax liabilities caused by a partner or ex-partner’s errors. Requires documentation and IRS approval. |
| Currently Not Collectible Status | $1,500 – $4,000 | Filing for a temporary status where the IRS halts collection efforts due to financial hardship. |
How Do Tax Relief Companies Charge Fees?
Not all tax resolution companies follow the same pricing model. Here are the most common fee structures:
- Flat Fees: Many firms charge a fixed price for specific services, making costs predictable.
- Hourly Fees: Some tax attorneys or firms bill by the hour, which can add up depending on the complexity of your case.
- Upfront Payments: Some companies require full or partial payment upfront before starting work. Be cautious of firms demanding full payment in advance without a clear service agreement.
- Deposits & Payment Plans: Some specialists allow a deposit with payments spread over time, ensuring affordability for clients.
The Right Resolution Starts with the Right Experts
IRS problems don’t fix themselves, and waiting only makes things worse.
Whether you need help with unpaid taxes, penalties, audits, or want wage garnishment help, taking the proper steps early on can mean the difference between financial stability and serious consequences. With the IRS enforcing tax laws strictly, having an experienced professional on your side is not just helpful—it’s necessary.
At Hall’s IRS, we don’t rely on guesswork. Our Certified Tax Resolution Specialists, Enrolled Agents (EA), and CPAs have successfully resolved thousands of cases, using proven strategies to secure the best outcomes. From negotiating settlements to stopping aggressive IRS actions, we bring the expertise and confidence needed to handle even the toughest tax situations.
Real results come from real experts. If you’re ready to make every tax situation simple for you, Hall’s IRS is ready to help.
FAQ's
The timeline varies based on the complexity of the case. Some cases, like wage levy releases, can be resolved in as little as a week, while others, like Offer in Compromise (OIC) settlements, may take six months to two years. The IRS review process, appeals, and required documentation all impact the resolution time.
No, no tax professional can guarantee a specific result since IRS decisions are based on individual circumstances. A qualified specialist maximizes your chances of securing the best possible outcome, whether it’s a reduced tax debt, penalty removal, or a payment plan. Any firm making absolute guarantees should be avoided.
A tax attorney is a licensed lawyer who specializes in tax law, often handling legal disputes, litigation, and court cases. A tax resolution specialist, such as a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist, Enrolled Agent, or CPA, focuses on negotiating with the IRS, securing settlements, and resolving tax debt issues. In many cases, a tax resolution specialist is sufficient, unless legal representation is required.
The amount you can save depends on your tax liability, financial situation, and IRS programs available to you. Programs like Offer in Compromise allow taxpayers to settle for less than what’s owed, but approval rates vary. A specialist will assess your case and determine the best strategy for reducing tax debt or penalties.
For minor tax debts, taxpayers may be able to handle IRS negotiations directly. However, if you owe a significant amount, face IRS enforcement actions, or don’t fully understand tax laws, a tax resolution specialist ensures that mistakes are avoided and the best resolution is secured. Even with small debts, they may help remove penalties or secure a better payment plan.
If you’re unsure whether you need help, consulting with a tax resolution specialist at Hall’s IRS can provide clarity and guidance on the best course of action.
