FAQ & Resources
You've Got Questions. We Have Solutions.
Straight answers to common IRS tax help questions in Illinois, written in plain English and grounded in honest limits.
A Note From Jeni
If You're Reading This, Chances Are You're Stressed
You've received an IRS notice, fallen behind on taxes, or you're worried about what comes next. Tax problems are rarely just about taxes. They're about families, businesses, and peace of mind.
My goal is to give you honest answers, practical solutions, and the confidence that an experienced tax attorney is in your corner.
General Questions
IRS Tax Help Questions in Illinois
Why should I hire a tax attorney instead of trying to handle the IRS myself?
The IRS has experienced professionals working to collect taxes, and you deserve an experienced advocate working for you. A tax attorney can protect your rights, explain your options in plain English, and help you make informed decisions.
What does a tax resolution attorney do?
A tax resolution attorney represents individuals and businesses with IRS and state tax problems, including back taxes, audits, wage garnishments, bank levies, tax liens, penalties, and unfiled returns.
Do I really need an attorney? Can my CPA handle this?
CPAs are incredibly valuable, and we work with many of them. When a tax issue becomes a legal dispute, legal representation, attorney-client privilege, and direct advocacy with the IRS may provide an added layer of protection.
What types of tax problems do you handle?
We handle IRS tax debt, state tax issues, audits, wage garnishments, bank levies, liens, payroll tax issues, penalty abatement, installment agreements, Offers in Compromise, unfiled returns, appeals, and related tax matters.
I just received an IRS notice. What should I do?
Do not ignore it. The sooner you understand your options, the more opportunities may exist to resolve your matter before the IRS takes more aggressive collection action.
What happens during the consultation?
We discuss your situation, review the notices you have received, evaluate your options, and explain the next steps. The goal is clarity.
Working With Tax Legal Freedom
Collections, Levies, Offers & Unfiled Returns
Can Tax Legal Freedom stop IRS collections?
In many situations, yes. Depending on your circumstances, we may be able to request a temporary collection hold, negotiate an installment agreement, pursue Currently Not Collectible status, submit an Offer in Compromise, or take other appropriate action. Every case is unique, and no specific outcome can be guaranteed.
Can the IRS garnish my wages?
Yes. If you have unpaid tax debt and do not respond to IRS notices, the IRS may garnish a portion of your wages until the debt is resolved. Wage garnishment can often be prevented or stopped if you act quickly.
Can the IRS take money from my bank account?
Yes. The IRS has authority to levy a bank account to collect unpaid taxes. Once a levy is issued, there is generally a short window to seek release of frozen funds before they are sent to the IRS.
Can you reduce the amount I owe?
Possibly. Depending on your financial circumstances and eligibility, options such as penalty abatement, Offers in Compromise, or other resolution programs may reduce the amount you ultimately pay.
Can I settle my tax debt for less than I owe?
Sometimes. The IRS offers programs that may allow qualifying taxpayers to resolve tax debt for less than the full amount owed, but not everyone qualifies and the IRS has strict eligibility standards.
Can IRS penalties be removed?
Yes, in some situations. The IRS may remove certain penalties through Penalty Abatement if you qualify under the law. Interest generally continues to accrue on unpaid tax.
How long does the tax resolution process take?
Every case is different. Some matters can be resolved within weeks or months, while more complex cases may take longer depending on the IRS, the issues involved, and the documentation required.
What if I have not filed tax returns for several years?
You are not alone. Many taxpayers fall behind due to hardship, illness, divorce, business challenges, or other life events. We can help develop a strategy to become compliant.
Do you help business owners?
Yes. Business owners face unique tax challenges involving payroll taxes, sales tax, corporate tax liabilities, and IRS collection actions.
Will I have to deal with the IRS myself?
In most cases, once you retain the firm and authorize representation, we communicate directly with the IRS or state taxing authorities on your behalf.
Can I go to jail for owing taxes?
Simply owing taxes does not automatically mean you are going to jail. Most tax collection matters are civil, not criminal. If fraud or willful failure is alleged, speak with a tax attorney before communicating with the IRS.
Fees
Fees & Payment Questions
How much do your services cost?
Every tax matter is unique. Fees are based on the complexity of your case, the scope of representation, and the work required. During your consultation, we discuss your situation and provide a clear fee structure before representation begins.
Do you offer payment plans?
When appropriate, flexible payment options may be available to make legal representation more accessible.
About the Firm
About Tax Legal Freedom
Do you represent clients outside Illinois?
Yes. Federal tax matters before the IRS can often be handled remotely, allowing Tax Legal Freedom to assist clients throughout the United States.
What should I bring to my consultation?
If available, bring IRS or state tax notices, recent tax returns, income information, and any correspondence about your tax matter. Do not worry if you do not have everything; we will help determine what is needed.
Is my consultation confidential?
Yes. Communications with an attorney regarding legal advice are confidential, subject to applicable law.
Ready to talk? Schedule your free consultation.
Free, Confidential Consultation
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