How to Choose a Tax Relief Attorney

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By Sarah Wilson CCRP
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Tax Relief

If you have a tax debt that you need help resolving, consider calling a tax relief attorney. The important thing is to choose one that have a record of successes. Here is what you should do when choosing a lawyer to help with your tax debt.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Tax debt
Computer with internet access

Step 1

Assess qualifications.

When hiring someone to do something for you, always find out the persons qualifications. Many tax relief attorneys are advertising their expertise on TA. Having good marketing advertisement is not acceptable proof that a person is qualified to perform a task. Check the lawyer's background and find out if they passed the BAR and if they are licensed to practice in your state? Is he or she a member of the American Bar Association or the State Bar Association?
Step 2

Assess experience.

Know your lawyers limitations. Has the attorney dealt with the IRS in the past? Did he or she work as a tax relief attorney before or as a tax consultant for the IRS at one time? Did the attorney have experience as a Certified Public Accountant or (at a minimum), a background in accounting? What is the attorney's reputation in the industry? Is there a proven track record of helping individuals or businesses achieve tax debt relief from the IRS? If it is a firm, exactly who in the firm will be handling your case?
Step 3

Assess cost.

Can you afford a tax relief attorney? Most lawyers have hourly rates. Some require a retainer and all require payment. Once you've found attorneys that meet your requirements, choose a minimum of 3 and conduct your assessment, including cost. They will not hesitate to tell you their pay requirement. Sometimes, you can give them a brief description of the situation over the phone and they will tell you what it will cost to handle your tax problem with the IRS.
Step 4

Find out what he or she can do for you.

When you see tax attorney advertisements, they claim the ability to stop garnishment, reduce tax debt, erase your tax problems and stop or prevent liens and so much more. Ask the lawyer exactly what will be done to resolve your tax problems. Get a plan in writing and work with the tax relief attorney to achieve your best outcome.

Comments

luv2blog said

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on 10/26/2008 Too bad she didn't listen, 2besure. Now make her chant ten times...THE IRS IS NOT MY FRIEND!!! (lol) She should know by now that the government (period) is not our friend.