Am I going to Jail?

Answer: Jail always feels like a likely outcome when dealing with the IRS or state Department of Revenue. Generally, people do not go to jail for what are called “civil” tax matters like outstanding taxes (regardless of the balance), unfiled tax returns, and the like. The pressure of an IRS or state Department of Revenue matter can feel like jail is a likely outcome. It isn’t.

How am I going to pay the taxes I owe?

Answer: Tax balances can feel like they will never be paid in a lifetime. This can feel overwhelming. The good news is that there are a host of options to address a tax balance that is too large to pay, including a settlement of the balance for less than the total amount owed (Offer-In-Compromise), a partial payment agreement, appealing the matter that created the taxes, and finally, bankruptcy in some settings will eliminate federal and state taxes.

Will the IRS take my property, house, and car?

Answer: The IRS or state Department of Revenue has the power to take your property, including your house and car. This situation feels very threatening. Keep in mind that this is the very last resort for the government, as they have no desire for your property.

My tax returns have been audited and are not accurate. What am I going to do?

Answer: This situation is a little tricky and very unnerving. State Departments of Revenue generally do not pursue inaccurate returns as a criminal offense. They adjust the return in question in the audit and charge a penalty for what is called an understatement of taxes. The IRS, however, can pursue an inaccurate return as a criminal matter. Generally, simple mistakes on your tax returns do not create a situation where the audit results in a criminal matter. Most returns that are not accurate are simply adjusted to the corrected balances via audit, and a penalty related to the understatement of your taxes is charged.

Will the IRS take my wages and bank account?

Answer: The IRS or state Department of Revenue has the power to take your wages and monies in your bank account. This is very threatening. Unresolved collection issues or unfiled tax returns often end up with what is called a garnishment that can take part of your wages or the monies in your bank account.

I am in collections and the IRS has contacted me. How can I represent myself and get a fair outcome?

Answer: This situation feels very threatening. Generally, self-representation in this setting is a bad idea. (See the question on my website where this issue is addressed at length.) First, you likely don’t know the law. Secondly, the emotions of dealing with the IRS or state Department of Revenue will create lots of unresolved anxiety.