Can I Do It Myself?

If you owe the IRS less than $10,000 you can complete Form 9465, tell the IRS how much you want to pay each month, and what time of the month to expect the payment. That should do it! Note that most states have different rules. You must check with your state's requirements, and comply with them.

If you owe the IRS more than $10,000, the requirements are more stringent. More information must be provided, on the proper forms. You must be familiar with the collection rules and regulations, and you must be prepared to deal with professional level IRS Collection Officers. If your forms submission is incorrect, you may end up paying more per month than you can really afford. That could push you into default, causing more problems.

The IRS Collection Officer works with a four-volume rulebook called the Internal Revenue Manual (IRM). If your problem is bigger than the two mentioned above, you must have a good working knowledge of the IRM, or you will be at a distinct disadvantage. (Keep this last sentence in mind when you read about the low prices quoted by some practitioners. Some are just typing services. Knowledge of the IRM is mandatory to presenting your case in the best possible light.) This is where you should turn to a professional for help.

Read my contact page. If you don't, you might be missing the best part of tax problem resolution. Call me.