File all tax returns that are due, regardless of whether you can pay in full or not. File your overdue return in the same way and in the same place where you would file a return on time. If you need more time to pay your tax bill, the IRS will likely give it to you in the form of a payment plan. A payment plan will allow you to pay your late tax bill (plus accrued interest and fees) in installments over a period of time.
If you're self-employed and don't file your federal tax return, the income you earned from self-employment won't be reported to the Social Security Administration and you won't receive credits for Social Security retirement or disability benefits. The IRS often doesn't know what tax deductions or credits you might have qualified for, leading to a higher bill than you could have had if you had done it yourself. While the IRS offers several options for relief, here are three to consider if you owe back taxes. You'll want to know that you're up to date with all your tax returns (or that you've filed a valid extension) and that you've made all the required estimated tax payments.
The first notification you will receive will be a letter explaining the balance due and requiring full payment. But if you're among the millions who are indebted to the IRS, you may be able to get an additional benefit with the tax relief. The federal tax levy arises automatically when the IRS sends the first notice demanding payment of the tax debt charged to you and you don't pay the full amount. This bill begins the collection process, which continues until your account is satisfied or until the IRS no longer legally collects the tax; for example, when the collection deadline or period expires.
If it discovers that you are owed a tax refund while your tax debt is on hold, the IRS will apply it to the amount you owe. Learn how to apply for an IRS payment option, such as an extension of payment or an IRS installment agreement, when your company owes taxes and can't pay. If the IRS determines that you cannot pay any of your tax debts due to financial difficulties, the IRS may temporarily delay the collection by stating that your account is currently not collectible until your financial situation improves. Tax relief is a general term for government programs or policies that help taxpayers reduce their tax burden.
Technically, you must file all the tax returns you must file, and the IRS can prosecute you for any year you haven't been filed. The IRS can also seize your property (including your car, boat, or real estate) and sell it to satisfy the tax debt. You can call the IRS at 800-829-1040 (see telephone support for hours of operation) to discuss any IRS bill. If you can't afford to pay your taxes and living expenses, within reason, you can ask the IRS to place your account in what is currently called a non-collectible state.
