- Notices & lettersWe read the notice, check whether it's right, and respond on your behalf.Learn more about Notices & letters →
- Back taxesPayment plans, Offers in Compromise and currently-not-collectible status.Learn more about Back taxes →
- AuditsRepresentation in correspondence, office and field audits.Learn more about Audits →
- Penalty reliefFirst-time abatement and reasonable-cause requests.Learn more about Penalty relief →
How representation works
With your signed authorization (IRS Form 2848, or the state equivalent), a CPA can speak with the IRS on your behalf, receive copies of your notices, request your account transcripts and negotiate for you. In most cases you never need to call the IRS yourself.
Common IRS problems we resolve
- Balance due notices (such as CP14, CP501 and CP503) and final notices of intent to levy
- Underreporting notices (CP2000) when income on a 1099 doesn't match your return, including crypto on Form 1099-DA
- Unfiled returns and substitute returns the IRS prepared for you
- Tax debt you can't pay in full: installment agreements, Offers in Compromise or currently-not-collectible status
- Penalties that may qualify for first-time abatement or reasonable-cause relief
- State tax issues with the New Jersey Division of Taxation and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance
The worst thing you can do is nothing
IRS collection follows a sequence of notices, and options narrow as it moves along. Respond by the deadline on the notice, even if you can't pay. Most problems are far easier to resolve early.
Frequently asked questions
Can a CPA represent me before the IRS?
Yes. CPAs have unlimited representation rights before the IRS, the same as enrolled agents and attorneys, once you sign a power of attorney (Form 2848).
I can't pay what I owe. What are my options?
Depending on your finances: a short-term extension to pay, an installment agreement, an Offer in Compromise, or currently-not-collectible status. File your returns even if you can't pay, since the failure-to-file penalty is far larger than the failure-to-pay penalty.
Will the IRS forgive penalties?
Often, yes. First-time abatement is available if you have a clean compliance history for the prior three years, and reasonable-cause relief is available when circumstances beyond your control prevented compliance.
How long can the IRS collect a tax debt?
Generally ten years from the date the tax was assessed, although certain events, such as a pending Offer in Compromise or bankruptcy, extend that period.