Jackson Hewitt vs Optima Tax Relief

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Another option is setting up a payment plan, known as an installment agreement. If you can't pay all at once, the IRS might let you pay off your debt over time. You'll still need to pay interest and possibly penalties, but spreading the payments out can make it more manageable.

There's also something called penalty abatement. If you've been hit with penalties because you filed your taxes late or didn't pay on time, you might be able to get those penalties reduced or eliminated. The IRS could forgive penalties if you have a good reason for why you were late, like a serious illness or natural disaster.

State tax agencies often offer similar programs, so if you owe state taxes, it's worth checking to see what options are available. These agencies understand that life happens, and they may be willing to work with you to find a solution.

While it's possible to negotiate with the IRS or state tax agencies on your own, many people find it's better to hire a tax relief service or an attorney. Here's why. First, tax laws and IRS rules can be really complicated. A professional who knows these rules inside and out can guide you through the process and make sure you don't miss any important details.

Also, tax relief professionals are experienced in dealing with the IRS and state tax agencies. They know how to negotiate effectively and might be able to get you a better deal than you could on your own. And, of course, putting someone else between you and the IRS can not only keep the stress off your shoulders, but it also makes it less likely that you'll make a mistake that could delay your process or result in a denial of your paperwork.

Now that you're convinced that hiring a tax relief specialist is the way to go, which one should you pick? They're not all created equal, so here are some criteria you can use to make your choice:

• Fees. Unfortunately, working with a tax relief service isn't free. But, the good news is that the best services will base their fees on a percentage of the amount that they've saved you, so you're still coming out on top. Make sure you're clear on what you'll pay later during your initial (no-cost) consultation.
• Minimum debt requirements. Many services expect you to have at least $10,000 in tax debt to use their program. Others will accept clients with lower tax liabilities.
• Services offered. Some tax relief programs only help you complete the basic application paperwork with the IRS, while others actively negotiate on your behalf. And, not every service works with both federal and state tax debt. Be sure that the one you choose can provide you with the help you need.
• Reputation. What have other clients said about their overall experience with the tax relief service? Has it been worth what they've paid? Has it been easy to work with their assigned case managers? Above all, did it deliver the tax relief they were looking for?

Tax relief can be a lifeline if you're struggling with tax debt, so the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have done the research on today's top providers and ranked them from best to worst. Use this information to choose a service that fits your needs, and don't hesitate to reach out for an initial consultation. Good luck!