Use Cases: Taxpayers
Real-world examples of how individual taxpayers and small business owners have successfully resolved their IRS issues using Brevitax's platform and professional network.
Case Study: Small Business Owner
The Situation
Maria, a restaurant owner, owed $85,000 in payroll taxes after struggling through the pandemic. The IRS had filed a lien and was threatening to seize her business assets.
The Challenge
- Business was barely breaking even
- Couldn't afford to pay the full amount
- Needed to protect business operations
- Had never dealt with IRS collection before
The Solution
- Matched with an enrolled agent specializing in business tax issues
- Prepared comprehensive financial analysis
- Negotiated an installment agreement for $1,200/month
- Successfully removed the tax lien after 6 months of payments
The Outcome
- Payment Plan: Manageable monthly payments
- Business Saved: Avoided asset seizure
- Credit Restored: Lien removal improved credit score
- Peace of Mind: Professional handling of all IRS communications
Case Study: Individual Taxpayer
The Situation
John, a freelance consultant, owed $45,000 in back taxes from several years of underreporting income. He had been avoiding the problem, making it worse with penalties and interest.
The Challenge
- Debt had grown to $62,000 with penalties and interest
- Irregular income made payment planning difficult
- Feared wage garnishment and bank levies
- Needed to file several missing tax returns
The Solution
- Connected with a CPA experienced in freelancer tax issues
- Filed all missing tax returns
- Applied for first-time penalty abatement
- Negotiated an offer in compromise for $18,000
The Outcome
- Debt Reduction: 71% reduction in total debt
- Compliance: All returns filed and current
- Fresh Start: Clean slate with the IRS
- Financial Relief: Affordable lump-sum payment
Case Study: Retiree on Fixed Income
The Situation
Dorothy, age 72, owed $28,000 in taxes from an early retirement account withdrawal. Living on Social Security and a small pension, she couldn't afford the payments.
The Challenge
- Fixed income of $2,400/month
- High medical expenses
- IRS threatening to garnish Social Security
- Worried about losing her home
The Solution
- Worked with a tax attorney specializing in senior issues
- Documented economic hardship status
- Applied for currently not collectible (CNC) status
- Protected Social Security from garnishment
The Outcome
- Collection Suspended: IRS stopped all collection activities
- Income Protected: Social Security remained untouched
- Peace of Mind: No more threatening letters
- Future Planning: Clear understanding of options if situation improves
Common Taxpayer Scenarios
Scenario 1: Unfiled Returns
Typical Situation: Multiple years of unfiled returns with growing penalties
- File all missing returns immediately
- Calculate total tax liability
- Apply for penalty abatement where appropriate
- Set up payment plan for remaining balance
Scenario 2: Payroll Tax Issues
Typical Situation: Small business behind on payroll tax deposits
- Get current on all payroll tax obligations
- Negotiate installment agreement for back taxes
- Implement systems to prevent future issues
- Consider trust fund recovery penalty defense if applicable
Scenario 3: Audit and Additional Assessments
Typical Situation: IRS audit results in significant additional tax owed
- Review audit findings for accuracy
- Appeal if disagreement with results
- Negotiate payment terms for accepted assessments
- Explore penalty abatement opportunities
Success Factors
Early Intervention
- Address issues as soon as they arise
- Don't ignore IRS notices and letters
- Seek professional help before problems escalate
- Maintain open communication with the IRS
Complete Documentation
- Gather all relevant financial documents
- Provide accurate and complete information
- Maintain organized records throughout the process
- Respond promptly to requests for additional information
Professional Guidance
- Work with experienced tax professionals
- Choose specialists appropriate for your situation
- Maintain regular communication with your representative
- Follow professional advice and recommendations
Cost Considerations
Professional Fees
- Simple Cases: $1,500-$3,000
- Complex Cases: $3,000-$7,500
- Ongoing Representation: $200-$400/hour
- Payment Plans: Many professionals offer payment plans
Value Proposition
- Professional fees often less than penalties and interest saved
- Faster resolution than attempting DIY approach
- Better outcomes through professional expertise
- Peace of mind and reduced stress
Getting Started
Step 1: Assessment
- Complete our secure intake questionnaire
- Upload relevant tax documents and IRS notices
- Receive preliminary case evaluation
- Understand your options and potential outcomes
Step 2: Professional Matching
- Review profiles of qualified professionals
- Compare credentials, experience, and fees
- Schedule consultations with preferred candidates
- Select the professional best suited for your case
Step 3: Case Resolution
- Sign engagement agreement with chosen professional
- Provide complete case information and documentation
- Work collaboratively throughout the resolution process
- Achieve successful resolution of your tax issues
Don't Wait - Act Now
Tax problems don't improve with time. The sooner you address your IRS issues, the more options you'll have and the better your outcome is likely to be. Get started today with a free case evaluation.