Find the Best Tax Relief in Bakersfield, CA

How to get tax debt relief in Bakersfield

Common tax issues include:

• Debt from back taxes
• Audits
• Bank levies
• Wage garnishments
• Unfiled or missing tax returns
• Asset seizures
• Form 1040 or 1099 disputes
• Collections

If you are facing any of these issues, tax relief is available, but only the IRS can determine if you are eligible for tax debt relief programs. Luckily, tax relief companies guide you through the process and help you negotiate with the government.

Tax debt relief programs in Bakersfield include payment plans; interest or penalty abatement; and an Offer in Compromise that settles the debt for less than you owed. While the IRS only approves the OIC in certain cases, tax relief companies can help navigate this and other tax debt forgiveness programs.

How much does tax relief cost in Bakersfield?

The cost of tax relief in Bakersfield depends on the complexity of the case and the debt amount, but it usually costs between $2,000 and $5,000. Many tax relief companies only work with a minimum tax debt of $10,000. The tax relief company’s contract should clearly state the fee structure and they will charge you.

Contracts might charge based on a lump sum, time or a percentage of your tax debt. Tax attorneys typically charge a retainer fee or bill in increments of time spent researching and working on your case. Ask about rates for all the employees working on your case. In general, complex cases require more time and, thus, cost more.

Tax relief takes anywhere from one week to six months. The complexity of the case and how much you owe can affect the timeline. Before hiring a tax relief company, ask for an estimate of how long the process will take.

Finding legitimate tax relief in Bakersfield

If you’re seeking tax debt relief in Bakersfield, check that potential tax relief companies meet certain qualifications. Only specific tax professionals are qualified to represent you before the IRS:

• Attorneys
• Certified Public Accountants
• Enrolled agents (federally authorized tax practitioners)

Ask the tax debt relief company if it has staff with these qualifications and what their names are. Attorneys practicing tax debt relief in Bakersfield must have licenses with the California State Bar Association. Bakersfield residents can also check CPA licenses and verify the status of enrolled agents.

Beware of companies that ask for upfront fees or guarantee that they can reduce your debt without researching your case first. Make sure the company is not asking you to surrender your assets or savings to them in return for IRS relief programs. Also, watch out for companies that pay their agents on commission.

Ask about potential refunds if the company is unable to complete any type of tax resolution for you, and make sure you understand its cancellation fees and policies. Finally, read tax debt relief company reviews to learn about other customer experiences before signing a contract.