Penalty Abatement

Get IRS Penalties Reduced or Removed — Starting Now.

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Benefits

Our 4-step
Tax Relief Process

No more calls, no more letters — you’re breaking up with the IRS.
Once you’re our client, we take over all communication.

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Step 1 – Free Consultation

Tell us about your IRS letters, tax debt, or unfiled returns. We’ll listen, review your situation, and explain your options.

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Step 2 – Investigation & Compliance

We pull your IRS transcripts to see what the IRS sees — penalties, interest, and any missing returns — then get you filed and eligible for relief.

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Step 3 – Resolution Plan

We design a customized strategy that fits your numbers — an Offer in Compromise, Installment Agreement, Penalty Abatement, or another relief program.

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Step 4 – Peace of Mind

We negotiate directly with the IRS on your behalf, keep you updated every step of the way, and help you finally get back on track.

Use Cases

What is IRS
Penalty Abatement?

Penalty abatement is the reduction or removal of penalties and sometimes interest imposed by the IRS due to late filing, late payment, or other noncompliance. It’s a relief mechanism provided under specific conditions

It doesn’t erase the original tax you owe, but it can take a big bite out of the total tax debt you owe.

The good news? There are real, legal ways to fix this — and we handle everything for you so you can finally get a fresh start and peace of mind.

Who Qualifies?

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Common ways to Qualify:

✅ First-Time Abatement (FTA): If you have a clean filing history for the past three years, the IRS may remove a late-filing, late-payment, or late-deposit penalty as a one-time courtesy.

✅ Reasonable Cause: You tried to follow the rules but circumstances outside your control got in the way — e.g., serious illness, natural disaster, records destroyed, or a death in the immediate family. Documentation helps.

❌ If you’re not current on all required filings or repeatedly filed or paid late without a compelling reason.

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Not Guaranteed

Even if you qualify, the IRS reviews each request carefully, which is why having a professional build your case, provide the right documentation, and ensure you’re current on all filings can greatly increase your chances of approval.

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Alternative Solutions

Penalty abatement isn’t always the best solution. In some cases, programs like an installment agreement, Currently Not Collectible status, or an Offer in Compromise may provide greater relief.

We’ll carefully review your situation and guide you toward the option that gives you the best outcome.

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How We Help You Through the Process

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Clear Guidance

We start with a free consultation to review your situation and explain whether a Penalty Abatement (or another tax relief program) is the right solution for you.

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Expert Preparation

We prepare the forms, financial analysis, and documentation the IRS requires  to improve your chances of approval.

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IRS Shield

We stand between you and the IRS, taking over all communication and negotiation while fighting for the best outcome on your behalf.

Why Choose  Us?

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Awarded Rising Star in Tax Resolution (2024) by ASTPS

Jason Smith, EA, CTRS was honored by the American Society of Tax Problem Solvers for expertise and dedication in tax resolution.

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Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS)

Proven expertise in solving IRS problems.

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Enrolled Agent (EA)

Licensed to represent you directly before the IRS.

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Personalized, boutique approach

No call centers, just real experts who know your case.

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Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees, no surprises.

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Proven results

We’ve helped clients just like you get on the right track with the IRS.

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FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as “Reasonable Cause” for penalty abatement?

The IRS may consider Reasonable Cause if you:

1. Experienced serious illness, death, natural disaster, or civil unrest
Example: You were hospitalized for surgery during the filing deadline and could not file your return on time.

2. Relied on incorrect/incomplete IRS advice
Example: You received a written IRS notice incorrectly stating you had no balance due, and you relied on that information.

These must be clearly backed by documentation.

How do I request penalty abatement?

By phone: Call the IRS toll-free number on your notice. First-Time Penalty Abatement (FTA) is often granted directly; If you’re requesting relief for Reasonable Cause, the IRS agent may review your explanation and let you know what documentation they’ll need.

In writing: Complete and submit Form 843 Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement with supporting documentation.

This can take several months, especially for written submissions.

Does penalty abatement reduce the actual tax owed?

No — penalty abatement only reduces or removes the IRS penalties (and sometimes the interest tied to those penalties). It does not erase the actual tax you owe. You’re still responsible for paying the core tax balance. And because the tax itself is still owed, late-payment penalties can start building again on whatever is left unpaid — which is why clearing or arranging payment for the balance matters.

If you can’t pay the full amount right away, you may qualify for an Installment Agreement or other relief options.

This is where working with a tax professional makes all the difference. We can review your situation, explain which strategies apply to you, and even combine programs — like penalty abatement and installment agreements — to maximize your savings and get you back in good standing with the IRS.

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