You’ve filed your returns and find you owe the IRS money. Now what do you do?
Many companies claim to be able to help consumers settle their tax debt.
Some of these are attorney firms that specialize in tax law. Others are debt counseling agencies that have dealt with the Internal Revenue Service. Here are a few tips to help you get the right help to settle your IRS tax debt settlement.
Think locally
If at all possible, you want to sit down and discuss your tax debt matter face to face. Interacting with contacts at the firm can help to build a rapport between you and your debt counselor that would otherwise not be possible. Always check for resources in your local area before branching out.
Do your research
If you live in an area where there are few local resources, or the quality of the services available are questionable, then look to other avenues. Check with state associations to find reputable, reliable firms to assist you. Even though the firm may not have an office in your city, it may still be possible to travel to their place of business and at least meet face to face.
Online resources
If you can’t find a resource for tax debt settlement help, turn to the Internet. Many firms will claim to be effective in working with the IRS, but don't take those claims at face value. Do some digging and see what you can find about where the firm is based, what is being said about them by other consumers, and if they are registered with the Better Business Bureau.
You're sinking fast in credit card debt, and there's not a life preserver in sight. Loans and balance transfer offers involve applying for more credit. Follow these tips for rescuing yourself from the dangers of excess debt.
Reducing debt or building savings?Even if you are following a debt reduction plan, it is important to try and build emergency savings.
When debt help is not enough: 3 reasons for filing bankruptcySituations can arise that make paying your bills impossible, or that render you ineligible for participating in debt relief efforts such as credit counseling. When you're enduring any of these circumstances, consulting a bankruptcy attorney can provide information about your rights and the consequences of filing bankruptcy.
Personal spending rises as income slipsPersonal income declined in August, but personal consumption expenditures rose, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis.
3 reasons for consolidating credit card debtAre you paying more than one credit card bill each month? Have you overlooked a bill and incurred penalty interest rates or late charges? Consider credit card debt consolidation for simplifying debt management chores.
Are you a would-be student who would like to attend college, graduate school, or professional school, but are hesitant because you…
The advantages of using your local credit union to refinance your mortgageLocal credit unions increasingly are popular alternatives to traditional banks. While banks are privately owned,…
Debt Consolidation for Senior CitizensFew people have more financial choices, yet more opportunities to be overwhelmed by those choices, than senior citizens. Seniors…
What is the Best Loan and Debt Repayment Program?Incurring debt sometimes is necessary in order to meet one’s financial and personal goals, or to make payments for necessary…
Bad Credit Student Loans for High Risk StudentsCollege costs nowadays are through the roof and are only expected to rise in the future. Most students and/or their parents…