Understand what an offer asks
An offer in compromise asks the IRS to settle a debt for less than the full amount. The agency considers the ability to pay, including income, expenses, and asset equity.
The IRS generally does not accept an offer when the balance can be paid in full through payments or assets. A projection from a provider is not an IRS decision.
Put this into practice.
For a first notice, begin with identification rather than guessing the seriousness from the envelope. Read all pages and look up the number on IRS.gov. Your first discussion can focus on the action requested and whether a response is required.
- Keep every page and the envelope
- Find the notice identifier
- Look it up in the official notice library
- Summarize the requested action in one sentence
Check readiness before applying
Required tax returns and current estimated payments must be addressed. An open bankruptcy prevents eligibility. Employers have additional current deposit requirements.
Use the current IRS eligibility and application instructions. The official pre-qualifier can support initial preparation but does not approve an offer.
Document the financial information
Keep figures traceable to their supporting records. Separate current facts, outdated records, and estimates. Ask which collection information forms and documents are required.
Do not omit assets or income because they seem unhelpful to a proposal. A complete and accurate review matters more than an attractive initial number.
Compare cost and alternatives
Review current official application fees and payments, including any relevant exception rules. Request private service costs, scope, and responsibilities separately in writing.
Ask how payment arrangements, collection delay, or other appropriate alternatives compare. Confirm what happens if an offer is not available or is not accepted.