What Is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
Quick Answer
The IRS Fresh Start Program expanded access to installment agreements and Offers in Compromise, raised the lien filing threshold to $10,000, and made it easier for taxpayers to resolve tax debt without aggressive collection actions.
Detailed Explanation
The Fresh Start Program, launched in 2011 and expanded since, made several taxpayer-friendly changes to IRS collection policies. Key features include: raising the threshold for automatic tax lien filing from $5,000 to $10,000, allowing lien withdrawal after meeting certain payment conditions, expanding streamlined installment agreements to debts up to $50,000, extending payment terms to 72 months, and making Offers in Compromise more accessible by changing how future income is calculated. These aren't separate programs you apply for—they're built into existing resolution options.
Key Points to Remember
- Not a separate program—it's built into existing resolution options
- Liens not automatically filed for debts under $10,000
- Streamlined installment agreements available up to $50,000
- 72-month payment terms available
- Lien withdrawal possible after meeting payment conditions
Timeline
Benefits apply to all current resolution requests
Related Resolution Options
Related IRS Notices
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