Delinquent Tax Help

"Tax that is unpaid or remains unpaid as of or after the payment due date. Usually a penalty attaches to that sum. Any unpaid balance that may remain after a partial payment will still be considered delinquent. The penalty and the unpaid balance remain separately identifiable," says Answer.com in its definition of tax delinquency.

But what can you do if you need delinquent tax help?

Aside from a multitude of lawyers, certified public accounts and enrolled agents that can help you, the IRS has an entire section of "what if's" that will help you determine what your options are depending on your reasons for being unable to pay.

"The Internal Revenue Service recognizes that many people may be having difficult times financially. There can be a tax impact to events such as job loss, debt forgiveness or tapping a retirement fund. If your income decreased, you may be newly eligible for certain tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit," says the IRS on their site "The What Ifs of an Economic Downturn." "Most importantly, if you believe you may have trouble paying your tax bill contact the IRS immediately. There are steps we can take to help ease the burden. You also should file a tax return even if you are unable to pay so you can avoid additional penalties."

Here is a list of some of the scenarios. If one of these applies to you, start by going to the website to read what the IRS has to say before spending the money on a lawyer; you may save yourself some money. The answers to these questions are at http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=201853,00.html?portlet=6.

Job Related

What if I lose my job?

What if I receive unemployment compensation?

What if my income declines?

What if I am searching for a job?

What if my employer goes out of business?

What if I close my own business?

What if I withdraw money from my IRA?

What if my 401(k) drops in value?

Debt Related

What if I lose my home through foreclosure?

What if I sell my home for a loss?

What if my debt is forgiven?

What if I am insolvent?

What if I file for bankruptcy protection?

Tax Related

What if I can't pay my taxes?

What if I did not receive an economic stimulus payment?

What if I can't pay my installment agreement?

What if there is a federal tax lien on my home?

What if a levy on my wages is creating hardship?

What if I can't resolve my tax problem with the IRS?

What if I need legal representation to help with my tax problem but can't afford it?

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