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Top IRS Problems Taxpayers Face

Navigating tax issues with the IRS can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already doing your best to manage finances, business, and personal obligations. Tax problems can affect anyone—from small business owners and self-employed professionals to busy families. Understanding the most common IRS problems is the first step toward regaining control and peace of mind.

Most Common IRS Issues Taxpayers Encounter

1. Unpaid Taxes and Back Tax Balances

Life doesn’t always go as planned. Maybe you faced an unexpected hardship or forgot to submit a tax payment—now the IRS says you owe back taxes, often with penalties and interest. The IRS takes debt collection seriously. Wages can be garnished or bank accounts levied if issues aren’t addressed promptly.

IRS problems and solutions

2. Tax Audits and IRS Letters

Audits are one of the most feared letters from the IRS. Sometimes they happen because of simple mistakes in reporting income or deductions. In other cases, red flags are triggered by inconsistencies or missing information. An audit doesn’t always mean wrongdoing, but it is stressful—and the process is often misunderstood.

3. Failure to File Returns or File On Time

Life gets busy, and it’s surprisingly common to miss a filing deadline or skip a year. The IRS has specific penalties for both late filing and late payment. Repeated missed filings can trigger more aggressive collection actions and may even put refunds at risk.

Tax calculator

4. IRS Liens and Levies

When tax debt becomes significant or ignored, the IRS can place a lien on assets—making it difficult to sell property or secure loans. Wage garnishments and bank levies are even more serious measures that can siphon income directly from your accounts.

5. Identity Theft and Fraud Alerts

Tax return identity theft is on the rise. Fraudsters use stolen information to file fake returns and grab refunds. If the IRS detects suspicious activity or if your return can't be processed, you may be locked out of your refund or subjected to a lengthy investigation.

Myths vs. Facts: IRS Tax Resolution

  • Myth: “If I ignore it, the IRS will go away.”
  • Fact: IRS collection efforts intensify over time. Early action puts you in a better position to negotiate solutions.
  • Myth: “Only people who cheat on taxes get audited.”
  • Fact: Many audits result from honest errors or random selection, not intentional fraud.
  • Myth: “You have to pay your debt in full immediately.”
  • Fact: The IRS offers options like payment plans, penalty abatement, and even partial settlements under very specific conditions.

Accounting support for IRS problems

How Experienced Tax Professionals Help

THE TAX CUTTERY® is a trusted local leader dedicated to helping individuals and businesses resolve tough IRS tax problems. Our expert team brings years of hands-on experience with IRS negotiations, tax resolution strategies, audit representation, and personalized planning right in your community.

  • Locally recognized for tax resolution expertise
  • Experienced in representing clients to the IRS
  • Clear guidance for every step—from the first IRS notice to final resolution
  • Confidential, judgment-free support for families, professionals, and small business owners
Peace of mind after IRS resolution

Frequently Asked Questions About IRS Tax Help

  • What should I do if I receive a letter from the IRS? Don’t panic. Carefully read the letter, gather your documents, and contact a tax professional to review your situation before responding.
  • Can the IRS negotiate or forgive tax debt? The IRS has programs like Offer in Compromise (OIC), installment agreements, and hardship status, but qualifying depends on your case.
  • How can I avoid IRS problems in the future? Staying organized, filing on time, and consulting with tax professionals for major life or business changes can prevent most issues.

Take Action: IRS Problems Don’t Solve Themselves

Don’t wait until an IRS issue spirals out of control. Professional guidance can help you avoid penalties, protect your assets, and find solutions tailored to your needs. Contact THE TAX CUTTERY® today to resolve your IRS issues and get peace of mind.

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Securities offered through PFS Investments Inc., member FINRA & SIPC. Investment advisory services may be offered through PFS Investments Inc. or, where applicable, through a separately registered investment adviser. Paul D. Diaz is an IRS Enrolled Agent & IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent and provides ITIN/W-7, tax preparation, tax resolution, and tax advisory services through THE TAX CUTTERY®, an independent firm. Tax services are not offered through PFS Investments Inc. or its affiliates and are solely the responsibility of THE TAX CUTTERY®. This message is not intended as an offer or solicitation in any jurisdiction where such offer or solicitation would be unauthorized. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Paul D. Diaz, EA, MBA, has unlimited representation rights before the Internal Revenue Service.