Tax controversy, in plain language

If you have just opened a tax assessment from the Washington State Department of Revenue, you probably have two questions: how did this happen, and can I fight it? The answer to…

If the IRS has disallowed your refund claim, a two-year deadline started running the day that letter was dated — and filing an administrative appeal does not pause it. Worse, if the…

Introduction Tax Day—April 15—arrives every year whether you’re ready or not. For many taxpayers, the biggest stress isn’t filing the return, it’s realizing they can’t pay the full balance due. If you’re in…

Introduction Every year, thousands of taxpayers miss the April 15 deadline. Sometimes it’s due to procrastination, sometimes because of financial hardship, and sometimes because life simply gets in the way. But failing to…

Introduction Freelancers, gig workers, and independent contractors enjoy flexibility and independence—but with that freedom comes responsibility. Unlike traditional employees, no employer is withholding taxes from your paycheck. That means you’re responsible for paying…

Introduction Many taxpayers try to handle IRS negotiations on their own. While the IRS offers programs like installment agreements and Offers in Compromise, mistakes can cost you thousands of dollars. Mistake #1: Ignoring IRS Deadlines Missing…

Introduction Whether you live in Oregon or Washington State, owing money to the IRS can feel overwhelming. From IRS back taxes to wage garnishments and tax liens, the IRS has powerful tools to collect what it’s…

Introduction The rise of platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and other short-term rental sites has created new income opportunities for property owners. But with that extra income comes extra responsibility—especially when it comes to taxes.…

Introduction You’ve probably seen the late-night commercials or online ads promising to help you “settle your IRS tax debt for pennies on the dollar.” It sounds too good to be true—and for most…

When you’re in a tax dispute with the IRS, the costs of litigation can add up quickly. Fortunately, Congress created a tool called the Qualified Offer under IRC §7430(g)(1). If used correctly, it…

Settling your tax debt for less than you owe sounds too good to be true—but the IRS Offer in Compromise (OIC) program makes it possible in certain cases. Here’s how it works, who…

Getting a letter from the IRS is never fun—but a Notice of Deficiency (also called a “90-day letter”) is one you can’t afford to ignore. It’s the IRS’s way of saying: We think…