WASHINGTON—Since 2011, the IRS has offered multiple tax forgiveness programs to help Americans with tax debt find relief. But each year, only a small percentage of taxpayers who qualify for these programs actually apply for them.
IRS programs like Offer in Compromise and Currently Non-Collectible allow taxpayers to pause collection actions or settle their debts for less than the full amount owed.
While the IRS does not actively promote these programs, a small group of tax professionals is working to raise awareness about the power of tax forgiveness.
“There continues to be a huge discrepancy between the number of people eligible for an Offer in Compromise and the number of people who actually submit an application,” explained George Miller, a Virginia-based CPA.
When taxpayers fill out our Tax Relief Survey, they are able to see if they qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program and begin their journey toward tax resolution in minutes.
The Fresh Start Program helps thousands of Americans reduce or even completely erase their tax debts each year—but it remains underutilized so far in 2025.
“Many Americans assume they don’t qualify without ever checking,” Miller continued. “In reality, a broad range of circumstances can make someone eligible for significant relief.”
Thanks to last year’s budget increase from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the IRS has the resources to approve more Fresh Start applications than ever before—but that could change soon.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) continues to cut the IRS budget and lay off employees, challenging the IRS’ ability to fund and operate the Fresh Start Program.
If you owe federal back taxes and can’t afford to pay them in full, the Fresh Start Program may be your financial lifeline. However, qualifying for the program before it becomes underfunded is crucial.
Take this 60-second Quiz to See if You Qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program.
Tax debt affects thousands of Americans; however, few seek assistance to resolve their debts with the IRS. It’s not that the resources are unavailable, but that the IRS bureaucracy often gets too complicated for the average American to handle.
In truth, fighting the IRS is a full-time job, so Americans are turning to reputable tax relief firms to ensure that they receive the most relief possible.
Many Americans do not realize they qualify for tax relief because they never took the time to check their eligibility.
Remember, it’s 100% free to see if you qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program, and a few minutes could help you save thousands.
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Every day, your tax debt grows larger due to penalties and fees. It is vital to act now and partner with a tax relief expert to receive the best resolution possible.