Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is tax relief?
A: Tax relief is a program called Offer in Compromise wherein the IRS will settle a tax debt, whether personal or business for less than the amount owed if a citizen qualifies.

Q: Why would the IRS want to settle a tax debt?
A: The IRS understands there are situations in which they will not be able to collect the entire amount of tax a citizen owes no matter what they do or how hard they try. By agreeing to settle a tax debt, the IRS “brings the citizen back into the system”. The citizen is required to stay in compliance and pay their taxes on time after tax relief is granted.
It's a win-win situation for the citizen and the IRS.

Q: How do I know if I qualify for tax relief?
A: Our tax counselors can quickly determine if you qualify for tax relief. Even if we determine that you do not qualify for an Offer in Compromise, you may still qualify other types of tax relief like Penalty Abatement, Innocent Spouse or Trust Fund Recovery. We can also arrange a manageable installment agreement with the IRS for you.

Q: I have a bank levy or garnishment on my wages. What can you do about that?
A: We can remove the levy in most cases on the same day you call us, if you qualify. We can also place a “collection hold” on your tax account to give us time to work out a tax relief solution for you.

Q: The IRS keeps sending me letters and calling me. I don't know what to do or what to say to them.
A: At Citizen Tax Relief we protect and represent you to the IRS. No more upsetting calls or threatening letters. This means that you will not have to speak to the IRS – we will negotiate on your behalf and provide you with the relief you need now.

Q: I have unfilled tax returns and I have lost all of my records. Do I need to file them
A: To qualify for tax relief, all tax returns must be on file with the IRS. We can help you reconstruct your income and we will prepare all past due tax returns for you.

Q: What do you charge for your services?
A: Our fees are based on each individual case. All CTR services are provided on a flat fee bases with NO ADDITIONAL CHARGES. Our fee will cover all aspects of your tax relief case from start to finish. This includes all your research, documentation, paperwork, follow up negotiations and any hearings before the Appeals Division of the IRS.

Q: What about these commercials I see that promise to settle my case for “pennies on the dollar”?
A: When most people hear the phrase “pennies on the dollar”, they think “2 or 3 pennies on the dollar”. You will notice that the advertiser does not mention “how many pennies on the dollar” they can settle your case for. Some citizens indeed qualify to settle their cases for 2 or 3 cents on the dollar. The IRS average settlement is for 12 ½ cents on the dollar. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify to settle for more or less.

Q: Can the IRS take my house?
A: Since the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998, property seizures are rare. However, the IRS still threatens taxpayers with seizures of their home, cars and retirement accounts. We can stop these threats and provide the protection you need to make a smart decision.

Q: I have more questions. How can I contact you?
A: Call one our tax counselors at 877-281-1829 . We are available from 9 am until 6 pm Monday through Saturday (EST). Or, click here and answer this short questionnaire. We will contact you within 24 hours.