That 'IRS' Letter Might Be Fake - Clear Start Tax Explains How to Tell a Real IRS Notice From a ScamFraudulent letters designed to look like official IRS correspondence are pushing taxpayers to pay fast - and knowing the tells can prevent a costly mistake.
How the IRS Decides Who Qualifies to Settle for Less - Clear Start Tax Breaks Down Offer in Compromise Approval Factors in 2026The IRS approves only a fraction of Offer in Compromise applications each year, and understanding the math behind the decision is the difference between an accepted offer and a wasted filing.
IRS Shifts From Audits to Collections - Clear Start Tax Warns Levies and Passport Holds Are Rising in 2026As examination activity slows, tax practitioners are reporting a marked increase in aggressive collection actions - including bank levies and passport restrictions for those with significant tax debt.
When You Truly Can't Pay the IRS - Clear Start Tax Explains How "Currently Not Collectible" Status Works and Who QualifiesFor taxpayers facing genuine financial hardship, the IRS can pause collection activity - but the status is not automatic and must be documented.
IRS COVID-Era Penalty Refunds Close July 10 - Clear Start Tax Urges Eligible Taxpayers to Act Before the DeadlineA recent court ruling has opened a narrow, time-sensitive window for some taxpayers to seek refunds of pandemic-era penalties and interest - but the deadline to file a claim is July 10, 2026.
