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IRS Fresh Start Program — Tax Relief Options for Individuals and Businesses
The IRS Fresh Start Program was created to help taxpayers who are struggling with back taxes but want to get back on track. The program offers several relief options, including easier payment plans, tax lien withdrawal, penalty relief, and the opportunity to settle tax debt for less than the full amount owed.
Internal Tax Resolution helps taxpayers understand which Fresh Start options they qualify for and handles the entire process of negotiating with the IRS.
See if You Qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program
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There are no income requirements
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All of your tax returns for the past 3 years must be filed
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You must not owe more that $50,000 including interest & penalties
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Available to any taxpayer struggling to pay back owed taxes
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Designed to help first time offenders get things back on track with the IRS
What Is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
The Fresh Start Program is a collection of IRS policies designed to make repayment more manageable for taxpayers facing financial hardship. It simplifies the process of qualifying for relief and expands eligibility for several programs, including:
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Installment Agreements
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Offer in Compromise (OIC)
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Penalty Abatement
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Tax Lien Withdrawal
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Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status
The goal of Fresh Start is to help taxpayers regain compliance without overwhelming financial pressure.
Why the Fresh Start Program Exists
The IRS knows that millions of taxpayers fall behind due to circumstances outside their control. Job loss, illness, unexpected expenses, or simple filing mistakes can lead to snowballing tax debt. The Fresh Start Program helps taxpayers avoid extreme collection actions and find a manageable path forward.
Consequences of Ignoring IRS Tax Debt
Tax debt does not disappear on its own. If you ignore IRS notices, the IRS may:
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Garnish your wages
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Seize funds from your bank account
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File federal tax liens
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Increase penalties and interest
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Offset future refunds
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Send your case to enforced collection
Fresh Start provides several ways to stop these actions before they escalate.
Fresh Start Program Options
Here are the main forms of relief available under the Fresh Start initiative:
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Expanded Installment Agreements
The Fresh Start Program makes it easier to qualify for streamlined monthly payment plans. Taxpayers who owe up to $50,000 (and sometimes more) can set up an installment agreement without extensive financial documentation.
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Offer in Compromise (OIC)
Fresh Start expanded the criteria for settling tax debt for less than you owe. More taxpayers now qualify based on income, expenses, and assets. The IRS uses a formula called “reasonable collection potential” (RCP) to determine eligibility.
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Penalty Abatement
First-time penalty abatement and reasonable cause arguments can reduce or eliminate penalties related to failure to file, failure to pay, and other IRS charges.
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Tax Lien Withdrawal
Fresh Start made it easier for taxpayers to avoid or remove federal tax liens. If you owe less than $25,000 and enter a direct debit installment agreement, you may qualify for lien withdrawal.
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Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status
If you cannot afford payments, the IRS may temporarily stop collection efforts, including levies and garnishments.
How Internal Tax Resolution Helps You Use the Fresh Start Program
Every Fresh Start option has specific rules, financial qualifications, and documentation requirements. Our tax professionals review your situation and determine the best path for relief.
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We help by:
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Reviewing IRS notices and transcripts
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Evaluating your financial situation
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Determining which Fresh Start options you qualify for
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Preparing required forms and documentation
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Contacting the IRS on your behalf
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Negotiating the best possible repayment or settlement
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Ensuring your case stays compliant moving forward
We handle everything from start to finish so you don’t have to deal with the IRS alone.
Our Fresh Start Program Process
1. Free Tax Relief Evaluation
We review your tax balance, financial details, and IRS notices.
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2. Identify Eligible Relief Options
We determine which Fresh Start options apply to your situation.
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3. Prepare and Submit Documentation
We complete all forms, financial statements, and requests.
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4. IRS Representation
We negotiate directly with IRS agents so you don’t have to.
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5. Final Approval and Compliance Guidance
We help you stay compliant to prevent future tax issues.
Client Success Example
“A client in North Carolina owed more than $32,000 and was struggling after a job loss. Through the Fresh Start Program, Internal Tax Resolution secured a streamlined installment agreement with low monthly payments and helped remove a tax lien that was affecting her credit.”
Get Help With the IRS Fresh Start Program Today
The Fresh Start Program can make resolving tax debt far more manageable, but knowing which options you qualify for can be confusing. Our team can guide you through every step and help you secure the best outcome possible.
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Call Internal Tax Resolution today for a free Fresh Start evaluation and see which options you qualify for.