Thankful for a Fresh Start: How the IRS Fresh Start Program Helps Taxpayers
November is a season for gratitude and a time to reflect on the good in our lives and look forward to new beginnings. For those struggling with tax debt, it can be hard to feel thankful when financial worries are always close at hand. But just as the season invites us to embrace fresh starts, the IRS offers a program designed to give taxpayers a second chance: the Fresh Start Program .
What Is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
Launched in 2011 and expanded in the years since, the IRS Fresh Start Program is an initiative that makes it easier for taxpayers to resolve back taxes without overwhelming penalties or aggressive collection actions. The program offers:
- Extended installment agreements with longer payment terms
- A higher tax lien threshold , meaning the IRS generally won’t file a lien unless you owe more than $10,000
- Easier access to Offer in Compromise settlements, allowing qualified taxpayers to settle for less than the full amount owed
- More penalty relief options for those facing financial hardship
You can read more about who qualifies for the IRS Fresh Start Program in this CBS News article.
Who It Helps
The program is ideal for people who:
- Owe less than $50,000 in tax debt (or can pay down to that amount)
- Have fallen behind due to financial hardship, such as job loss, reduced income, or unexpected expenses
- Are current on all required tax filings
- Are willing and able to make consistent payments under a negotiated plan
- Are self-employed and can show a 25% decline in income for certain relief options
Why It’s a Game-Changer
The Fresh Start Program offers more than just reduced payments. It’s about lifting the stress that comes with unpaid taxes, avoiding damaging liens or levies, and reclaiming your ability to plan for the future. In a season centered on gratitude, imagine the relief of knowing the IRS is no longer hanging over your head.
At Robert Boeshaar Attorney at Law, we’ve seen firsthand how life-changing this can be. We’ve helped clients not only avoid aggressive IRS actions but also dramatically reduce what they owed, in some cases turning overwhelming six-figure debts into manageable amounts.
Take Action Before the Year Ends
The hardest part is often making the first call. By acting now, you can start the process before holiday distractions set in and possibly step into the new year with a resolution in place. Whether you qualify for the Fresh Start Program or need a different strategy, we can guide you toward the right solution for your situation.
This Thanksgiving, give yourself the gift of a fresh start. Schedule a confidential consultation today and let’s explore your options for resolving tax debt and restoring your peace of mind.