IRS Tax Fighters Blog

Understanding how the IRS prioritizes levies can help you protect your business before enforcement hits.

First Step: File Your Returns (Even If You Can’t Pay Yet) The biggest mistake independent contractors make is ignoring unfiled returns because they can’t pay. But the IRS won’t even talk to you about resolving your debt until you’re compliant. This golden rule of tax resolution is you can’t fix what you haven’t filed. Filing your returns shows the IRS you’re trying to make things right. It also stops certain penalties from growing and starts the clock on the collection statute expiration date (CSED), the 10-year period the IRS has to collect. Even if you’re missing 1099s or bank records, a tax resolution specialist can reconstruct your income using IRS wage and income transcripts or bank statements. The key is to get compliant first, then work on a payment or settlement plan. Keep Accurate Records of Income and Expenses Gig income is taxable whether you receive a Form 1099 or not. Many platforms issue 1099-NEC or 1099-K forms, but some don’t. You’re required to report all earnings, including cash tips or direct payments from clients. At the same time, gig workers are entitled to valuable deductions that can dramatically reduce taxable income. Common deductible expenses include: • Mileage or vehicle expenses • Supplies and tools used in your work • Cell phone and internet used for business • Home office expenses • Marketing, advertising, and software costs • Contract labor or subcontractor fees Keeping receipts and mileage logs can make or break your tax case. If you’re under IRS examination or seeking relief, good records can help prove your deductions and reduce what you owe. Estimate and Pay Quarterly Taxes The IRS expects you to pay as you go. Gig workers who expect to owe more than $1,000 for the year are required to make quarterly estimated payments (April, June, September, and January). Even if you’ve fallen behind, starting now can make a big difference. It shows the IRS you’re current on new taxes, which is essential for qualifying for any tax resolution program like an Installment Agreement or Offer in Compromise. A simple way to stay on track is to set aside 25–30% of each payment you receive for taxes. Apps like QuickBooks Self-Employed or Everlance can help you track income, mileage, and estimated taxes automatically. Know Your IRS Resolution Options If you already owe back taxes, you still have options. The IRS offers several programs that can help gig workers settle or reduce their debt. 1. Installment Agreement You can pay what you owe over time—often up to 72 months—through a monthly payment plan. This can prevent wage garnishment or bank levies as long as you stay current. 2. Offer in Compromise (OIC) If you can’t afford to pay the full amount, the IRS may accept a settlement for less based on your income, expenses, assets, and ability to pay. Many self-employed taxpayers qualify if their earnings are inconsistent or seasonal. 3. Currently Not Collectible (CNC) If paying the IRS would create financial hardship, your account may be placed in CNC status. The IRS temporarily stops collections while your financial situation improves. 4. Penalty Abatement If you’ve filed and paid late due to reasonable cause—such as illness, loss of records, or reliance on bad advice—you may qualify for first-time abatement or penalty removal. Each of these programs has strict qualification criteria and documentation requirements, which is why professional representation can make all the difference. Protect Your Business—and Your Peace of Mind The IRS has been stepping up enforcement on 1099 and gig income in recent years. With third-party reporting via Form 1099-K, it’s harder than ever to “fly under the radar.” Failing to address back taxes can lead to: • Bank levies or wage garnishments • Liens that damage your credit • Seizure of refunds • Stress, anxiety, and sleepless nights On the other hand, resolving your tax issues can bring instant peace of mind and help you move forward confidently in your business. The Bottom Line Being self-employed gives you flexibility, control, and independence, but it also means you shoulder the full responsibility for managing your taxes. Whether you’re behind on filings, owe thousands in back taxes, or just want to avoid future IRS trouble, the time to act is now. Here at IRS Tax Fighters we specialize in helping gig workers and independent contractors with tax problems. You can call us at 281-962-0070.

An IRS appeals hearing can be an intimidating experience, but it’s also an opportunity to resolve tax disputes without going to court.

Cryptocurrency has gone from a niche hobby to mainstream. But along with explosive growth in crypto markets comes a less glamorous reality: the IRS wants its share.

This article explains what happens when you owe payroll taxes, how the IRS responds, and what you can do before the situation becomes critical.

Recognizing when you need professional help for tax relief, like the kind we provide at IRS Tax Fighters, and understanding what a tax resolution specialist does are crucial steps toward resolving your tax problems effectively.

Many are surprised to learn that the IRS can also impact your ability to travel internationally....In this blog we will cover everything you need to know about how the passport revocation process works and how to protect yourself.

Understanding the steps in the IRS collection process can help you make informed decisions.

Dealing with tax debt can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to address your tax obligations without draining your bank account.

An audit can be stressful, time-consuming, and nerve-wracking. However, with the right approach and professional guidance, you can handle an audit confidently and minimize potential financial consequences.

Filing back taxes is a crucial step in avoiding serious IRS trouble and regaining financial control. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to file back taxes.

If you’ve received a notice of wage garnishment or believe you may be at risk, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to protect your paycheck.

Dealing with the IRS can feel overwhelming, especially if you owe more than you can pay upfront. Thankfully, the IRS offers payment plans.

Fortunately, there are various tax debt resolution options available to suit different financial situations. In this blog, we’ll explore these options.

Tax debt is a serious issue, but it’s one that can be resolved with the right approach...

If you’ve received notice of a tax lien or are concerned about the possibility, understanding the process and your options is crucial.

If you're overwhelmed by tax debt and struggling to see a way out, the IRS has a program that might be the lifeline you need. It's called an Offer in Compromise (OIC).

At IRS Tax Fighters, we want to ensure you stay safe and informed as you navigate the tax resolution process. Here are essential tips to help you identify and avoid tax scams while finding legitimate assistance to solve your tax problems.

Receiving a letter from the IRS is never pleasant, but ignoring these letters can lead to serious consequences.

While the flexibility of self-employment is appealing, it also comes with unique tax responsibilities that can lead to potential scrutiny from the IRS. This article will explore your tax responsibilities as a 1099 worker and provide strategies to help you minimize the risk of audits.

How asset seizure works, the process the IRS follows, and the steps you can take to protect your assets .

We’ll explain how starting the year with a clear plan in place can help you regain control of your finances and reduce the chances of your tax debt escalating.

Ignoring tax debt may seem like an easy way to put off financial stress, but the truth is that the IRS has significant power to enforce tax collection.

If you’re feeling stressed or uncertain about your tax obligations, it’s crucial to know when it’s time to seek help from a tax resolution professional.

In this article, we will review how IRS garnishments work, what steps you can take to avoid it, and how tax relief professionals like the ones at IRS Tax Fighters can help you prevent or stop garnishments if they’ve already begun.

This article will identify why someone may be audited, what exactly is involved in an IRS audit, and the possible steps to take to be fully prepared.

The prospect of managing tax debt might seem overwhelming, and you may be unsure about what steps to take next. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate this complex area alone. Tax resolution firms are here to help.

In this article, we’ll review the various types of penalties that the IRS may impose if you fail to meet your tax obligations, and we’ll break down how the interest accrues.

In this article, we’ll break down the most common methods for settling tax debts and offer guidance on how to navigate this complex process more effectively (and with the right help).

Imagine checking your mail to find a notice from the IRS stating that you owe money. Whether the amount is small or substantial, it can likely trigger some immediate concern or even anxiety...The key to managing this situation effectively simply lies in understanding all the steps you need to take next.

Filing tax returns is a legal obligation for anyone and everyone earning an income above a certain amount in the United States. But life can sometimes throw you curveballs, and filing taxes ends up being on the bottom of your to do list....For anyone with unfiled tax returns, pay close attention to all of the steps listed in this article.

Tax relief can help ease the burden if you’re struggling with unpaid taxes, but not everyone qualifies. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand if you might be eligible for tax relief and how to get the help you need.

Let’s explore five compelling reasons why opting for tax relief services may be preferable to filing for bankruptcy.

In times of economic hardship, navigating tax obligations can make financial stress so much worse. The good news is that tax relief options exist.

Let’s spend some time understanding the inner workings of the IRS and go over the steps to take if you need assistance navigating the complexities of tax collection.

Understanding the top reasons taxpayers get audited by the IRS can help you avoid common pitfalls and navigate the audit process more confidently.

While there are legitimate tax relief professionals who can assist individuals with resolving their tax issues, there are also plenty of unscrupulous individuals and companies looking to take advantage of unsuspecting taxpayers. To help you safeguard yourself against tax scams, we've compiled a list of tips for protecting yourself from these fraudulent tax relief services.

It's common for individuals to wonder how they ended up in their current tax debt predicament, so let's look into the tax debt timeline, starting from the initial accumulation of debt...

By understanding all of the factors that can contribute to tax debt and knowing the potential ramifications of not paying your taxes, you can take proactive steps to address your tax liabilities and achieve financial stability.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the intricacies of the Offer in Compromise program, shedding light on its potential benefits and pitfalls, and how having a tax relief professional on your side may prove to be even more beneficial on the path to financial freedom.

Back tax relief is a lifeline for individuals and businesses burdened by unpaid or delinquent taxes. As tax relief professionals, we understand that navigating the IRS maze of complexities of back taxes can be overwhelming.

If you fail to pay your back taxes, two terms often surface: "lien" and "levy." These terms have specific meanings and consequences in the realm of taxation, and understanding the differences is essential for anyone seeking tax relief.

In this article, we'll shed light on some common IRS tactics and what the IRS can actually do, providing valuable insights from a tax relief professional's perspective.

In this article, we will explore the key indicators that signal when it's time to reach out to a tax resolution professional for assistance.

In this article, we'll shed light on the major areas of frustration that individuals face when trying to contact the IRS on their own and explain why seeking professional tax relief assistance is often the best path to resolution.

This article aims to demystify tax penalties, how they accumulate, and ways to minimize or avoid them.

This article explores the tax relief options available and who can qualify.

Proper tax planning is a crucial aspect of financial management that should be addressed throughout the year. Waiting until April to assess your tax liability is a risky move.

Understanding the common ways people get into tax troubles can help in avoiding these pitfalls.

Understanding how the IRS prioritizes levies can help you protect your business before enforcement hits.

First Step: File Your Returns (Even If You Can’t Pay Yet) The biggest mistake independent contractors make is ignoring unfiled returns because they can’t pay. But the IRS won’t even talk to you about resolving your debt until you’re compliant. This golden rule of tax resolution is you can’t fix what you haven’t filed. Filing your returns shows the IRS you’re trying to make things right. It also stops certain penalties from growing and starts the clock on the collection statute expiration date (CSED), the 10-year period the IRS has to collect. Even if you’re missing 1099s or bank records, a tax resolution specialist can reconstruct your income using IRS wage and income transcripts or bank statements. The key is to get compliant first, then work on a payment or settlement plan. Keep Accurate Records of Income and Expenses Gig income is taxable whether you receive a Form 1099 or not. Many platforms issue 1099-NEC or 1099-K forms, but some don’t. You’re required to report all earnings, including cash tips or direct payments from clients. At the same time, gig workers are entitled to valuable deductions that can dramatically reduce taxable income. Common deductible expenses include: • Mileage or vehicle expenses • Supplies and tools used in your work • Cell phone and internet used for business • Home office expenses • Marketing, advertising, and software costs • Contract labor or subcontractor fees Keeping receipts and mileage logs can make or break your tax case. If you’re under IRS examination or seeking relief, good records can help prove your deductions and reduce what you owe. Estimate and Pay Quarterly Taxes The IRS expects you to pay as you go. Gig workers who expect to owe more than $1,000 for the year are required to make quarterly estimated payments (April, June, September, and January). Even if you’ve fallen behind, starting now can make a big difference. It shows the IRS you’re current on new taxes, which is essential for qualifying for any tax resolution program like an Installment Agreement or Offer in Compromise. A simple way to stay on track is to set aside 25–30% of each payment you receive for taxes. Apps like QuickBooks Self-Employed or Everlance can help you track income, mileage, and estimated taxes automatically. Know Your IRS Resolution Options If you already owe back taxes, you still have options. The IRS offers several programs that can help gig workers settle or reduce their debt. 1. Installment Agreement You can pay what you owe over time—often up to 72 months—through a monthly payment plan. This can prevent wage garnishment or bank levies as long as you stay current. 2. Offer in Compromise (OIC) If you can’t afford to pay the full amount, the IRS may accept a settlement for less based on your income, expenses, assets, and ability to pay. Many self-employed taxpayers qualify if their earnings are inconsistent or seasonal. 3. Currently Not Collectible (CNC) If paying the IRS would create financial hardship, your account may be placed in CNC status. The IRS temporarily stops collections while your financial situation improves. 4. Penalty Abatement If you’ve filed and paid late due to reasonable cause—such as illness, loss of records, or reliance on bad advice—you may qualify for first-time abatement or penalty removal. Each of these programs has strict qualification criteria and documentation requirements, which is why professional representation can make all the difference. Protect Your Business—and Your Peace of Mind The IRS has been stepping up enforcement on 1099 and gig income in recent years. With third-party reporting via Form 1099-K, it’s harder than ever to “fly under the radar.” Failing to address back taxes can lead to: • Bank levies or wage garnishments • Liens that damage your credit • Seizure of refunds • Stress, anxiety, and sleepless nights On the other hand, resolving your tax issues can bring instant peace of mind and help you move forward confidently in your business. The Bottom Line Being self-employed gives you flexibility, control, and independence, but it also means you shoulder the full responsibility for managing your taxes. Whether you’re behind on filings, owe thousands in back taxes, or just want to avoid future IRS trouble, the time to act is now. Here at IRS Tax Fighters we specialize in helping gig workers and independent contractors with tax problems. You can call us at 281-962-0070.

An IRS appeals hearing can be an intimidating experience, but it’s also an opportunity to resolve tax disputes without going to court.

Cryptocurrency has gone from a niche hobby to mainstream. But along with explosive growth in crypto markets comes a less glamorous reality: the IRS wants its share.

This article explains what happens when you owe payroll taxes, how the IRS responds, and what you can do before the situation becomes critical.

Recognizing when you need professional help for tax relief, like the kind we provide at IRS Tax Fighters, and understanding what a tax resolution specialist does are crucial steps toward resolving your tax problems effectively.

Many are surprised to learn that the IRS can also impact your ability to travel internationally....In this blog we will cover everything you need to know about how the passport revocation process works and how to protect yourself.

Understanding the steps in the IRS collection process can help you make informed decisions.

Dealing with tax debt can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to address your tax obligations without draining your bank account.

An audit can be stressful, time-consuming, and nerve-wracking. However, with the right approach and professional guidance, you can handle an audit confidently and minimize potential financial consequences.

Filing back taxes is a crucial step in avoiding serious IRS trouble and regaining financial control. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to file back taxes.

If you’ve received a notice of wage garnishment or believe you may be at risk, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to protect your paycheck.

Dealing with the IRS can feel overwhelming, especially if you owe more than you can pay upfront. Thankfully, the IRS offers payment plans.

Fortunately, there are various tax debt resolution options available to suit different financial situations. In this blog, we’ll explore these options.

Tax debt is a serious issue, but it’s one that can be resolved with the right approach...

If you’ve received notice of a tax lien or are concerned about the possibility, understanding the process and your options is crucial.

If you're overwhelmed by tax debt and struggling to see a way out, the IRS has a program that might be the lifeline you need. It's called an Offer in Compromise (OIC).

At IRS Tax Fighters, we want to ensure you stay safe and informed as you navigate the tax resolution process. Here are essential tips to help you identify and avoid tax scams while finding legitimate assistance to solve your tax problems.

Receiving a letter from the IRS is never pleasant, but ignoring these letters can lead to serious consequences.

While the flexibility of self-employment is appealing, it also comes with unique tax responsibilities that can lead to potential scrutiny from the IRS. This article will explore your tax responsibilities as a 1099 worker and provide strategies to help you minimize the risk of audits.

How asset seizure works, the process the IRS follows, and the steps you can take to protect your assets .

We’ll explain how starting the year with a clear plan in place can help you regain control of your finances and reduce the chances of your tax debt escalating.

Ignoring tax debt may seem like an easy way to put off financial stress, but the truth is that the IRS has significant power to enforce tax collection.

If you’re feeling stressed or uncertain about your tax obligations, it’s crucial to know when it’s time to seek help from a tax resolution professional.

In this article, we will review how IRS garnishments work, what steps you can take to avoid it, and how tax relief professionals like the ones at IRS Tax Fighters can help you prevent or stop garnishments if they’ve already begun.

This article will identify why someone may be audited, what exactly is involved in an IRS audit, and the possible steps to take to be fully prepared.

The prospect of managing tax debt might seem overwhelming, and you may be unsure about what steps to take next. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate this complex area alone. Tax resolution firms are here to help.

In this article, we’ll review the various types of penalties that the IRS may impose if you fail to meet your tax obligations, and we’ll break down how the interest accrues.

In this article, we’ll break down the most common methods for settling tax debts and offer guidance on how to navigate this complex process more effectively (and with the right help).

Imagine checking your mail to find a notice from the IRS stating that you owe money. Whether the amount is small or substantial, it can likely trigger some immediate concern or even anxiety...The key to managing this situation effectively simply lies in understanding all the steps you need to take next.

Filing tax returns is a legal obligation for anyone and everyone earning an income above a certain amount in the United States. But life can sometimes throw you curveballs, and filing taxes ends up being on the bottom of your to do list....For anyone with unfiled tax returns, pay close attention to all of the steps listed in this article.

Tax relief can help ease the burden if you’re struggling with unpaid taxes, but not everyone qualifies. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand if you might be eligible for tax relief and how to get the help you need.

Let’s explore five compelling reasons why opting for tax relief services may be preferable to filing for bankruptcy.

In times of economic hardship, navigating tax obligations can make financial stress so much worse. The good news is that tax relief options exist.

Let’s spend some time understanding the inner workings of the IRS and go over the steps to take if you need assistance navigating the complexities of tax collection.

Understanding the top reasons taxpayers get audited by the IRS can help you avoid common pitfalls and navigate the audit process more confidently.

While there are legitimate tax relief professionals who can assist individuals with resolving their tax issues, there are also plenty of unscrupulous individuals and companies looking to take advantage of unsuspecting taxpayers. To help you safeguard yourself against tax scams, we've compiled a list of tips for protecting yourself from these fraudulent tax relief services.

It's common for individuals to wonder how they ended up in their current tax debt predicament, so let's look into the tax debt timeline, starting from the initial accumulation of debt...

By understanding all of the factors that can contribute to tax debt and knowing the potential ramifications of not paying your taxes, you can take proactive steps to address your tax liabilities and achieve financial stability.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the intricacies of the Offer in Compromise program, shedding light on its potential benefits and pitfalls, and how having a tax relief professional on your side may prove to be even more beneficial on the path to financial freedom.

Back tax relief is a lifeline for individuals and businesses burdened by unpaid or delinquent taxes. As tax relief professionals, we understand that navigating the IRS maze of complexities of back taxes can be overwhelming.

If you fail to pay your back taxes, two terms often surface: "lien" and "levy." These terms have specific meanings and consequences in the realm of taxation, and understanding the differences is essential for anyone seeking tax relief.

In this article, we'll shed light on some common IRS tactics and what the IRS can actually do, providing valuable insights from a tax relief professional's perspective.

In this article, we will explore the key indicators that signal when it's time to reach out to a tax resolution professional for assistance.

In this article, we'll shed light on the major areas of frustration that individuals face when trying to contact the IRS on their own and explain why seeking professional tax relief assistance is often the best path to resolution.

This article aims to demystify tax penalties, how they accumulate, and ways to minimize or avoid them.

This article explores the tax relief options available and who can qualify.

Proper tax planning is a crucial aspect of financial management that should be addressed throughout the year. Waiting until April to assess your tax liability is a risky move.

Understanding the common ways people get into tax troubles can help in avoiding these pitfalls.