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Phoenix Tax Debt Lawyer
The process of seeking tax debt relief in bankruptcy is a complicated matter that requires knowledgeable and experienced legal advocacy. If your tax debt is overwhelming and you are looking to explore your legal options, Wright Law Offices can help.
Contact Wright Law Offices to schedule a free consultation with a Phoenix tax debt lawyer.
Seeking Tax Debt Relief: Exploring Your Options
Eliminating tax debt is not an easy process, and it is not guaranteed in bankruptcy. The federal government has an incentive to make it difficult, as taxes are its main source of income. If you are looking to eliminate tax debt through bankruptcy, there are a few things you should know:
- The taxes you are looking to discharge through bankruptcy must be of “due and owning” status for more than three years prior to filing.
- Your taxes must be filed prior to filing bankruptcy.
- A tax assessment by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) must be completed 240 days before filing bankruptcy. If you are unsure of whether your tax assessment has been completed, you can order a transcript through the IRS.
Our law firm assists clients with both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Because tax debts are not always dischargeable in
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a debtor may wish to explore options through
Chapter 13 bankruptcy. In Chapter 13, tax debt can be reorganized and a repayment plan lasting three to five years is established. Our Phoenix bankruptcy attorneys can help determine which — if any — of your tax debts can be eliminated through Chapter 7 and whether a repayment plan through Chapter 13 is a more suitable option.
Contact an Arizona Tax Debt Relief Lawyer
Contact a tax debt relief lawyer at our law offices in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Kingman, Avondale or Prescott. Call 480-845-0145 to schedule a free initial consultation.
How a Lawyer Can Help
As a Phoenix, AZ tax debt lawyer knows well, taxes on their own are confusing and stressful. That compounds if you owe money in taxes which you are unable to pay back. Seeing those dollar amounts in black and white can make everything all too real, and it is a common human reaction to want to run away from your problems. Unfortunately, tax debt is not easily avoided and should be addressed with the help of an experienced attorney who can guide you. Learn some of the options available to you to overcome your debt, and then contact a lawyer at Wright Law offices for help immediately.
Apply for Relief
The first step on this journey is to apply for tax debt relief. There are several programs available, and depending on your circumstances you may be eligible for one of them. Many things will go into the consideration of your eligibility such as the total amount of money you make in a year, what assets you own, what kind of job you work at, and more. Be aware, tax debt is never fully forgiven. However, the available programs can lessen the amount that you owe.
One such program from the IRS is called ‘offer in compromise’ which is where you can settle with the government for less than you owe. However, very few people are accepted into this program. It is considered only for those suffering from severe hardships, which is why it is important to have a Phoenix tax debt lawyer by your side to help you know if you qualify for this or if you should focus your energy elsewhere.
Negotiate
If you are not eligible for any assistance programs, an attorney can work to negotiate what you owe with the government to protect your assets. Just like any other type of debt, the IRS can place a lien on your property which means, for example, that if you default on payments they can foreclose on your home in order to make back what they are owed.
A lawyer will work to ensure your assets, such as your home, are protected as much as possible. They will also protect your credit score as much as possible. Any sort of debt will affect it, but there are industry rules that when followed, can protect your score in the long run.
In general, most people qualify for the government’s Fresh Start program which allows you to create a payment plan to slowly pay off your debt at a much more manageable rate. This program is only available to those who have filed all tax returns in the previous years and have not recently taken advantage of the program.
Word of Caution
Tax debt relief is an area where scammers prey upon innocent people. Be vary wary of any programs that promise one hundred percent debt relief. Owing money to the government can be a scary and stressful time — do not let others take advantage of that. Instead, contact a trusted attorney to handle your case.
Reach out to a qualified Phoenix tax debt lawyer at Wright Law offices for help immediately.
If you have text debt, you may want to get in touch with a Phoenix, AZ tax debt lawyer. Not being able to pay tax debt can be stressful. A lawyer from Wright Law Offices can help you find the best solution for your situation.
Here is some further information about tax debt lawyers.
- Tax debt lawyers are legal professionals who help repair tax issues for individuals and businesses. They can provide a wide range of services, from helping you file back taxes to negotiating a settlement with the IRS.
- Here are a few different ways that a tax debt lawyer can help you:
- Assess your tax situation: A Phoenix tax debt lawyer can review your financial records and tax history to determine the extent of your tax debt and the best course of action for resolving it.
- Handle negotiations with the IRS: A tax debt lawyer can communicate with the IRS on your behalf and negotiate a settlement or payment plan that works for your financial situation.
- Help you file back taxes: If you have unfiled tax returns, a tax debt lawyer can assist you in preparing and filing them.
- Represent you in court: In some cases, you may need to go to tax court to resolve your tax debt. A tax debt lawyer can represent you in court and present your case to the judge.
- Provide advice and guidance: A tax debt lawyer can help you understand your rights and obligations under the tax code and provide advice on how to avoid future tax issues.
- If you’re facing tax debt, the lawyer you hire should have experience and expertise in this area. Here are some tips for choosing a tax debt lawyer:
- Look for experience: Make sure the lawyer you choose has experience working with clients who have tax debt issues. You may also want to ask for references from past clients.
- Check credentials: Look for a lawyer who is licensed to practice law in your state and who has a good standing with the bar association.
- Evaluate communication skills: It’s important to choose a lawyer who communicates clearly and regularly with you throughout the process.
- Understand that working with a tax debt lawyer can be expensive, so it’s important to weigh the costs against the potential benefits. However, in many cases, hiring a tax debt lawyer can save you money in the long run by helping you negotiate a lower settlement with the IRS or avoiding future tax issues.
- Here are some things to consider when it comes to the cost of hiring a tax debt lawyer:
- Hourly rate: Many tax debt lawyers charge an hourly rate for their services, which can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per hour.
- Flat fee: Some tax debt lawyers offer flat-fee services for specific tasks, such as preparing and filing back taxes.
- Payment plans: Some tax debt lawyers may offer payment plans or other flexible payment options to make their services more affordable.
If you have tax debt, you may want to schedule a meeting with a Phoenix tax debt lawyer from Wright Law Offices.
Five Key Differences Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
If you are in need of securing tax debt relief, our Phoenix, AZ tax debt lawyer can help you determine the best path forward. When facing financial distress, understanding your options is crucial. Bankruptcy may offer a viable path to regaining financial stability, and if you’re considering bankruptcy in Arizona, you’re likely evaluating Chapters 7 and 13 — the two most common forms.
Below, we elucidate five key distinctions between them to help clarify which might be the best fit for your situation. If you believe Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy is the right path forward for you or are interested in learning more about the legal avenues for seeking tax debt relief, contact Wright Law Offices today to discover how we can help you.
Type Of Bankruptcy: Liquidation Vs. Reorganization
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is known as a liquidation bankruptcy. It’s designed to eliminate most unsecured debts quickly, often within a few months. In contrast, Chapter 13 is a reorganization bankruptcy, where debtors propose a repayment plan to settle their debts, usually over a three- to five-year period. This fundamental difference sets the stage for how each type of bankruptcy handles your debts and assets.
Handling Of Assets
A primary concern when filing for bankruptcy is whether you’ll be able to keep your property. In Chapter 7, non-exempt assets can be sold off by a trustee to pay creditors, although many assets are protected under state exemption laws. On the other hand, Chapter 13 typically allows you to retain your assets, assuming you continue to make payments according to the plan approved by the court. Our Phoenix tax debt lawyer will consult with you on your assets and how to best protect them and you in the process of filing for Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy.
Income Requirements
Eligibility for Chapter 7 requires passing a means test, which compares your income to the median income for a household of your size in Arizona. If your income is too high, Chapter 7 may not be an option. Conversely, Chapter 13 does not have a means test, but it does require that you have a regular income high enough to meet your repayment plan obligations, as well as necessitates that you abide by debt limits set forth in the bankruptcy code.
Duration And Impact On Credit
The time it takes to discharge debts in Chapter 7 is relatively short — typically between four to six months. The brevity of the process means you can begin rebuilding your credit sooner, although the bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for up to 10 years. Chapter 13 takes longer, due to the repayment plan, and it stays on your credit report for seven years from the filing date. However, the commitment to repay some or all of your debts can be seen positively by future creditors.
Dealing With Secured Debts And Liens
Chapter 7 can eliminate your personal liability for secured debts, but it does not remove liens from property, meaning creditors can still repossess secured assets if you don’t keep up with payments. In contrast, Chapter 13 can offer more protection for your assets and may allow for lien stripping or cramdowns, where the amount you owe on certain secured debts can be reduced to the value of the asset.
Tax Debt Infographic
Obtaining Legal Counsel For The Path Forward
Navigating the process of tax debt relief is seldom straightforward, and when it comes to filing for Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy, the counsel of our Phoenix tax debt lawyer becomes indispensable. Certain tax debts may be discharged under Chapter 7, while Chapter 13 could provide a structured repayment approach without the heavy penalties that typically accrue with tax debt.
Phoenix Tax Debt Statistics
According to national statistics, there are approximately 165 million individual income tax returns filed each year. However, the IRS audits about 700,000 of those returns. If you have received notification that you are being audited, do not try to deal with this on your own. Call our office to speak with a skilled Phoenix tax debt lawyer and make sure you are protected.
Phoenix Tax Debt FAQs
Tax debt law can be a daunting process that will likely require the help of our Phoenix, AZ tax debt lawyer. As your trusted advisors in Phoenix, our team of experienced professionals is here to provide you with valuable information about tax debt law. In this article, we’ll address five frequently asked questions related to tax debt, offering clarity and insights to help you make informed decisions regarding your tax matters.
What Is Tax Debt?
Tax debt is the amount of money owed to the government, typically the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), or state tax agencies, due to unpaid taxes. This debt can accumulate from various sources, including income tax, property tax, or business tax liabilities. Tax debt arises when a taxpayer fails to pay the full amount of taxes owed by the designated deadline, leading to penalties and interest charges.
How Does Tax Debt Accrue?
Tax debt can accrue in several ways. One common scenario is underreporting income or failing to report income altogether, resulting in unpaid income tax. Additionally, errors or omissions on tax returns, such as improper deductions or credits, can lead to discrepancies and potential tax debt. Failure to make estimated tax payments, as required for self-employed individuals or businesses, can also contribute to the accumulation of tax debt. Ultimately, any situation in which a taxpayer owes more in taxes than they have paid can lead to the accrual of tax debt.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Tax Debt?
The time period within which the government can legally collect unpaid taxes is referred to as the statute of limitations. For federal taxes in the United States, the statute of limitations is typically ten years from the date of assessment. This means that after ten years, the IRS cannot legally collect the outstanding tax debt. However, it’s crucial to note that certain actions, such as filing for bankruptcy or submitting an Offer in Compromise, can extend or pause the statute of limitations.
Can Tax Debt Be Discharged In Bankruptcy?
Tax debt can be discharged in bankruptcy under specific circumstances. Chapter 7 bankruptcy may allow for the discharge of income tax debt if it meets specific criteria, such as being at least three years old, accurately filed on time, and assessed at least 240 days before the bankruptcy filing. However, some tax debts, such as those resulting from fraud or payroll taxes, may not be dischargeable in bankruptcy. Consulting with a Phoenix tax debt lawyer is essential to determine your eligibility and explore your options for tax debt relief through bankruptcy.
What Are The Consequences Of Not Paying Tax Debt?
Failing to pay tax debt can lead to severe consequences. The IRS and state tax agencies have various tools at their disposal to enforce tax collection. These consequences may include wage garnishment, bank levies, tax liens on your property, and the seizure of assets. Additionally, accruing tax debt can result in substantial interest and penalties, significantly increasing the total amount owed over time. Ignoring tax debt can ultimately lead to financial distress, legal issues, and a negative impact on your credit score.
Taking Control Of Your Tax Debt
Tax debt is a complex and serious matter that requires careful consideration and professional guidance. If you find yourself facing tax debt issues in Phoenix, it’s essential to seek the assistance of a qualified Phoenix tax debt lawyer. Our firm is committed to offering our clients with solutions that will assist in regaining financial stability by properly addressing tax debts.
Don’t let tax debt overwhelm you. Contact Wright Law Offices today, and let us help you navigate the complexities of tax debt law. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the guidance and support you need to resolve your tax debt issues and secure a brighter financial future.
Deciding between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a significant decision with long-lasting implications. If you’re wrestling with tax concerns as part of your financial challenges, consulting with a tax debt lawyer should be your next step. We invite you to contact our experienced team at Wright Law Offices to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards financial freedom.
Why should you hire our firm to represent you in bankruptcy?
Great question. Here are a few reasons:
Ways we can help…
Our Locations
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Phoenix Office
Wright Law Offices
2999 N. 44th St., Ste 250
Phoenix AZ 85018
Telephone: 602-456-6085 / 866-703-3287
Phoenix Law Office -
Scottsdale Office
Wright Law Offices
7135 East Camelback Road, Ste 230
Scottsdale AZ 85251
Telephone: 480-845-0145 / 866-703-3287
Scottsdale Law Office -
Tempe Office
Wright Law Offices
2238 S. McClintock Dr.
Tempe AZ 85258
Telephone: 480-845-0145 / 866-703-3287
Tempe Law Office -
Avondale Office
Wright Law Offices
12725 W Indian School Rd, Suite E-101
Avondale AZ 85392
Telephone: 623-258-4480 / 866-703-3287
Avondale Law Office -
Mesa Office
Wright Law Offices
4856 E. Baseline Rd. Suite #104
Mesa, AZ 85206
Telephone: 480-845-0145 / 866-703-3287
Mesa Law Office -
Glendale Office
Wright Law Offices
20325 N. 51st Ave., Suite 134
Glendale, AZ 85308
Telephone: 623-258-4480 / 866-703-3287
Glendale Law Office -
Prescott Office
Wright Law Offices
3623 Crossings Dr Suite 334
Prescott, AZ 86305
Telephone: 602-932-6600
Prescott Law Office
What our clients are saying…
Mr. Wright and his staff were amazing. They made a negative situation a lot better and turned it into a positive. Could really tell they care helping people and I will refer their Phoenix Bankruptcy Attorney firm to friends and family. Thanks again.
I called around looking for the right bankruptcy lawyer and came across Benjamin Wright. He personally called me for the consultation seeing how I live in Kingman AZ. He was very helpful from the start and his staff was very friendly and explained any questions I had, sorry for all the questions. I would definitely recommend Wright law offices, and I do!! Thanks for everything, you made what seemed like a hard thing to do simple!! You guys rock!!!
Great lawyer, he really helped my mother out of a jam. She was totally new to bankruptcy and he talked with us for about an hour and a half to make sure she wouldn’t be worried.
Ben is a kind and down to earth attorney. He worked around my busy schedule as a single mom (school, full-time job, and daycare pick up and drop off times). He explained absolutely everything to me and was good about e-mailing. I am writing this review as a THANK YOU.
I had a very positive experience with Attorney Wright. He or his staff returned my e-mails and calls promptly (even after business hours occasionally). His fees were reasonable. He was patient with me when I showed up in court missing an important document. He is aggressive, but fair and nice.
How does Chapter 13 bankruptcy work?
For individuals who maintain a steady income but are grappling with debts that need more time to be cleared, Chapter 13 bankruptcy could provide a viable solution. This form of bankruptcy enables debtors to retain their property while adhering to a three to five-year repayment plan. In Scottsdale, the bankruptcy attorneys at Wright Law Offices utilize their expertise in developing personalized Chapter 13 plans that are uniquely designed to suit your circumstances and work in your favor.
What role can a lawyer play in tackling credit card debt?
When credit card debt spirals beyond control, the feelings of isolation and stress can be daunting. However, with a knowledgeable lawyer by your side, the situation can be transformed significantly. Lawyers are experienced in negotiating with formidable credit card companies, often succeeding in achieving reduced interest rates or a minimized debt total. At Wright Law Offices, located in Phoenix, our committed legal team stands ready to help you take back control of your financial situation and direct you towards other potential debt relief avenues like bankruptcy.
What happens when foreclosure is knocking on my door?
The prospect of foreclosure can make it seem like your world is tumbling down. Yet, it's vital to remember that there are legal routes available to navigate this challenging situation. Foreclosure is a process initiated by lenders when mortgage payments are overdue, leading them to recover their loan by selling your property. While it sounds intimidating, our adept team at Wright Law Offices in Tempe is here to assist. We guide you through every step of the process, thoroughly exploring all viable options, such as loan modification, bankruptcy, or even contesting the foreclosure in court.
What is a tax debt lawyer's role?
Being in debt to the IRS can create enormous stress. However, a tax debt lawyer can intervene and significantly improve your situation. They're skilled in negotiating a viable payment plan with the IRS, striving to reduce the tax debt you owe, and in certain scenarios, even getting penalties and interest absolved. The proficient team of Scottsdale tax debt lawyers at Wright Law Offices is committed to helping you face this challenge with optimism. Leveraging our deep knowledge of tax law, we're dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for every client we represent.