Read the collection notice first
Keep the complete notice and identify the tax period, balance and response date. A federal tax lien and a levy are different collection actions, and the notice explains what the IRS asks you to do.
The first useful step is often smaller than a complete reconstruction of every tax year. Write down the account question in plain language and ask what the proposed service would cover. In Ceres, CA, the listed business can explain what the proposed service would involve and what records may be useful.
Review the account path
Collection questions can involve missing returns, an unpaid assessment, a payment plan or a dispute about the amount. Ask which issue should be addressed first and what authorization or account records a review needs.
The first useful step is often smaller than a complete reconstruction of every tax year. Write down the account question in plain language and ask what the proposed service would cover. In Ceres, CA, the listed business can explain what the proposed service would involve and what records may be useful.
Keep deadlines visible
Mark every response date and keep delivery confirmations. If circumstances change, ask what current IRS procedure applies instead of relying on a general description of a collection action.
The first useful step is often smaller than a complete reconstruction of every tax year. Write down the account question in plain language and ask what the proposed service would cover. In Ceres, CA, the listed business can explain what the proposed service would involve and what records may be useful.