Quick answer: Hire a tax attorney when the IRS is threatening enforcement (lien, levy, wage garnishment), when you’re under criminal investigation, when you owe more than $25,000, when you’ve received a 90-day letter, or when your CPA’s advice is over their head. For straightforward returns and most penalty notices, a tax attorney is overkill — but for collection cases, it’s the right call.
I’m Darrin Mish. Tampa tax attorney, 32 years in, more than $100 million in IRS debt resolved. What follows isn’t theory – it’s what I’ve actually watched work.
IRS tax debt can be one of the most difficult debts to eliminate. The IRS has a lot of power when it comes to collecting taxes, and they will use every tool at their disposal to make sure you pay what you owe. This can include wage garnishment, bank levies, and property liens.
If you find yourself in IRS tax debt, it is important to seek professional help, such as a tax debt relief attorney.
How a Tax Debt Relief Attorney Can Help You
IRS tax debt relief attorney thoroughly understand tax codes and the IRS collection process. They can help you negotiate with the IRS to come up with a payment plan that works for you or even get your debt forgiven entirely.
Tax debt relief attorney also understand the different types of tax debt relief options available and can help you discover which option is best for you. Common types of tax debt relief options offered by the IRS include:
- IRS payment plans
- IRS offers in compromise
- Tax debt forgiveness
Tax Repayment Options
IRS payment plans allow you to make monthly payments on your tax debt. Payment plans can be a good option if you cannot pay your debt all at once. IRS offers in compromise allow you to settle your tax debt for less than you owe. This can be a good option if you cannot pay your debt in full and can’t afford a payment plan. Tax forgiveness can be an option if your tax debt is due to certain circumstances, such as identity theft or filing a false return.
If you are struggling with IRS tax debt, it is important to seek out the help of a tax debt relief attorney. They can help you understand your options and create a plan to get your debt under control.
Get in touch with our Tampa tax debt relief attorney today at (813) 229-7100 to discover how we can help you!
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a tax attorney instead of a CPA or enrolled agent?
When your case has criminal exposure, complex litigation posture, or attorney-client privilege as a strategic tool. For straightforward Installment Agreements, a CPA or EA is often the right choice. For audits, Trust Fund Recovery, Tax Court, or anything with potential criminal elements, the attorney premium is justified.
What does a tax attorney consultation cover?
A typical first consultation is 20 to 30 minutes, free, and covers your specific situation, your IRS letters and deadlines, your finances, available resolution options, expected fee range, and whether the firm is the right fit. There is no obligation to engage.
How much does a tax attorney cost?
Tax resolution cases typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 depending on complexity. Trust Fund Recovery defense and Tax Court litigation are higher. The fee is usually a small percentage of what is at stake when proper representation works.
Does hiring a tax attorney trigger an audit?
No. The IRS does not flag taxpayers because they hired representation. Having a Form 2848 Power of Attorney on file usually makes the case run more efficiently.
What is attorney-client privilege in tax cases?
Communications between you and your tax attorney are protected and cannot be compelled in litigation. Communications with a CPA generally have no such protection. The privilege is critical when criminal exposure is possible.
Can a tax attorney negotiate with the IRS for me?
Yes. Once a Form 2848 Power of Attorney is filed, the IRS communicates with your attorney instead of you. The attorney negotiates Installment Agreements, Offers in Compromise, penalty abatements, and represents you in audits and appeals.