FAQ – YourIrsTaxAdvocate.com

Question 1

What is an IRS tax advocate?

Accepted Answer

An IRS tax advocate is a professional who represents taxpayers before the IRS and state tax agencies. We act as your voice — negotiating on your behalf, responding to IRS notices, and working to resolve tax disputes, audits, and collection actions. Unlike a general accountant, a tax advocate specializes in resolving problems that have already arisen with the IRS.

Question 2

Who do you represent?

Accepted Answer

We represent individuals, businesses, estates, and trusts. Whether you're a sole proprietor dealing with back taxes, a corporation facing a payroll tax issue, or an estate administrator navigating complex tax obligations, we have the experience to help.

Question 3

Are you different from the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is a free government program that helps taxpayers navigate IRS problems. We are a private, boutique tax advocacy firm. We provide personalized, hands-on representation and work exclusively in your interest — not the government's. Many clients find that private advocacy provides more focused attention and faster results.

Question 4

What types of tax issues do you handle?

Accepted Answer

We handle a wide range of issues including IRS audits, tax liens, wage garnishments, bank levies, installment agreements, offers in compromise, penalty abatement requests, unfiled tax returns, payroll tax problems, and state tax agency disputes. If you've received a notice from the IRS or a state agency, we can help.

Question 5

What happens during the free consultation?

Accepted Answer

During your free consultation, we'll review your situation, discuss the notices or issues you've received, and explain your options in plain language. There's no obligation — we simply want to understand your case and give you an honest assessment of what resolution might look like.

Question 6

How long does the resolution process take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the complexity of your case. Simple penalty abatement requests can be resolved in a few weeks. More complex matters like offers in compromise or audit representation can take several months. We'll give you a realistic timeline after reviewing your specific situation.

Question 7

Will I have to deal with the IRS directly?

Accepted Answer

No. Once you retain us, we handle all communication with the IRS or state agency on your behalf. You won't need to take calls from the IRS or respond to notices — we do that for you. Our goal is to take the stress off your plate entirely.

Question 8

What documents will I need to provide?

Accepted Answer

Typically we'll need copies of any IRS or state notices you've received, your most recent tax returns, financial statements (for businesses), and information about your income and assets. We'll walk you through exactly what's needed once we understand your case.

Question 9

Can you stop IRS collection actions like levies or garnishments?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes. We can request a collection hold while we work on a resolution, negotiate installment agreements, or pursue other remedies that stop or delay collection actions. The sooner you contact us after receiving a notice, the more options we typically have available.

Question 10

How much does it cost to hire a tax advocate?

Accepted Answer

Our fees vary depending on the complexity of your case. We offer a free initial consultation so we can assess your situation before quoting a fee. We believe in transparent pricing — you'll know exactly what you're paying for before we begin any work.

Question 11

Do you charge by the hour or a flat fee?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the nature of the engagement. Some matters are handled on a flat-fee basis; others are billed hourly. We'll discuss the fee structure that makes the most sense for your situation during the consultation.

Question 12

Is the initial consultation really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. We offer a no-obligation free consultation to every prospective client. We'll review your situation, answer your questions, and explain your options — at no charge. We want you to feel confident before making any commitment.

Question 13

Can you help with estate or trust tax issues?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Estate and trust tax matters can be especially complex, particularly when dealing with back taxes owed by a deceased taxpayer or disputes over fiduciary responsibilities. We have specific experience in this area and can guide estate administrators and trustees through the resolution process.

Question 14

My business has unpaid payroll taxes. Can you help?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Payroll tax issues are among the most serious tax problems a business can face — the IRS can hold business owners personally liable through the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty. We've helped many business owners navigate these situations and find workable resolutions before they escalate further.

Question 15

Do you work with clients outside of California and Florida?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While our principals are based in California and Florida, we represent clients nationwide before the IRS and various state tax agencies. Tax resolution work is largely conducted remotely, so geography is rarely a barrier.

Frequently Asked Questions

About IRS Tax Advocacy

The Resolution Process

Costs & Fees

Estates, Trusts & Businesses

Still have questions?