What to Do If You Cannot Pay Your Tax Bill

If you are an Atlanta taxpayer with a tax bill you are unable to pay, this article is for you! There are two key steps that you should keep in mind if you have an IRS tax bill you are unable to pay. 

1. Tax Compliance

The IRS will agree to negotiate with you only if you compliant with their rules.   This is referred to as “tax compliance.” Tax compliance relates to both filing tax returns and making tax payments.

The IRS will consider you compliant if the the past 6 years of tax returns have been filed. 


If you cannot afford to pay your taxes, do not make the mistake of thinking that it would be better to not file at all. If you have not filed your return, the IRS will not negotiate with you.  Additionally, if you do not file the tax return, penalties, plus interest, will be added to your tax bill.  Penalties for missing returns are 5% per month, up to a maximum of 25%.   


2. Options Available to You




The third option is to make an Offer-In-Compromise.   The offer is always lower the amount of the tax owed – if you qualify.


To watch our YouTube video on this topic, click here!
