A structured monthly payment that resolves the balance without upending your budget. Here is how installment agreements work.
An IRS installment agreement is a monthly payment plan that lets you pay a tax balance over time while active collection stops.
Individuals who owe $50,000 or less can often qualify for a streamlined plan over up to 72 months. A properly negotiated agreement reflects what you can actually afford, not just the IRS default number.
An installment agreement is the IRS version of a payment plan. Instead of paying a balance in full, you pay a set amount each month until it is satisfied. In exchange, the IRS holds off on active collection as long as you stay current.
The catch is that the IRS default terms are not always the terms you can afford. The amount can be negotiated based on your income and allowable living expenses, and getting that number right is where representation pays for itself.
Most taxpayers who are current on filing can qualify for some form of plan. The type depends on how much you owe:
Two things affect the total:
Our own fee is quoted as a flat amount in writing after your free consultation, with no obligation.
A free, confidential review of your options. No obligation.
The same three-stage approach, applied to your case.
We build the financial picture that supports the lowest defensible monthly payment for your situation.
We request an agreement that stops active collection and reflects what you can actually afford, not just the IRS default.
We get the terms in writing and make sure the agreement holds, so collection stays paused.
It depends on your income, allowable living expenses, and the balance owed. For streamlined plans it can be as simple as the balance divided over the term; for larger balances it is based on your ability to pay. We present that picture so the payment is one you can carry.
In most cases an accepted agreement leads the IRS to release levies and garnishments, as long as it stays in good standing. See wage garnishments.
Yes, but it generally requires a financial statement rather than the streamlined process. We prepare that statement to support affordable terms, and in some cases a partial-pay agreement.
No. Interest and penalties continue on the unpaid balance while you pay, which is why we aim for the shortest affordable term and pursue penalty relief alongside it.
A missed payment can put the agreement in default and restart collection. The IRS usually sends a warning (Notice CP523) first. If you are at risk, tell us early, because agreements can often be reinstated or renegotiated.
Yes. State agencies like the California FTB have their own installment agreement programs, and we handle those alongside any IRS plan. See state tax resolution.
A free, confidential consultation about your federal or state tax matter. No obligation, no pressure.
