Common Tax Problems Georgia Residents Face—and How a Tax Attorney Can Help
Getting an IRS letter, seeing a levy hit your bank account, or learning that a lien was filed against your home are among the most stressful money problems a person can face. If you need the best tax attorney in Atlanta to intervene quickly, start with a free consultation.
Keep reading for the top five tax problems Georgia residents face and the practical fixes a tax attorney legally uses to win holds, secure plans, and pursue settlements.
IRS Audit Notice and Information Document Requests (IDRs)
An IRS audit is an examination of your return to verify that reported income, deductions, and credits are correct. Audits may be by mail, in office, or in the field; selection can be random, data-driven, or triggered by mismatches. Responding on time, narrowing scope, and presenting substantiation in an organized way can reduce proposed changes and penalties. An Atlanta tax attorney manages IDRs, prepares you for interviews, and preserves appeal rights if adjustments are proposed.
Federal Tax Lien Filed (and Georgia State Tax Execution)
If a balance remains after notice and demand, a Notice of Federal Tax Lien may be filed to alert creditors of the government’s legal claim to your property. Georgia may also record a state tax lien (tax execution) with a Clerk of Superior Court, encumbering real and personal property. Options include withdrawal, release after full payment, subordination, or discharge in limited circumstances. A Georgia tax attorney evaluates which option fits your facts and helps you remain compliant to prevent new filings.
Bank Levy or Wage Garnishment in Effect
When a case moves into collections, the IRS can levy bank accounts or garnish wages and may continue to file liens while you seek relief. Immediate steps often include securing a short hold, demonstrating hardship, or packaging a resolution (installment agreement, offer in compromise, or temporary “currently not collectible” status). A tax attorney can request levy release where criteria are met and position your file for a sustainable solution.
Unfiled Returns and Back Taxes Requiring a Payment Plan
If you owe and can’t pay in full, the IRS offers short-term and long-term payment plans—often requested online or with Form 9465. Eligibility depends on balance thresholds and filing compliance. The right plan can stop enforced collection, reduce setup fees (e.g., direct-debit), and create space to address penalties. Our top IRS collections attorney prepares accurate financials and keeps agreements in good standing.
Large Tax Debt Needing Settlement (Offer in Compromise)
Some taxpayers qualify to settle for less through an Offer in Compromise (OIC), based on “Reasonable Collection Potential.” Eligibility requires current filings and a complete financial package (Form 433-A(OIC)/433-B(OIC) and Form 656) with evidence of income, expenses, assets, and equity. Submitting a tight, well-documented proposal aligned with the IRS booklet and pre-qualifier guidance can shorten review and improve results.
Get Trusted, Hands-On Tax Help in Atlanta
The Law Office of Max Benkel resolves audits, levies, tax liens in Georgia, payment plans, and OICs with careful attention to records and deadlines. Contact us today to work with an Atlanta tax attorney grounded in current IRS and Georgia authority.
