Your Path to Freedom: A Los Angeles Tax Relief Attorney Guide

Why Los Angeles Taxpayers Need Expert Tax Relief Now

A los angeles tax relief attorney helps individuals and businesses resolve serious tax problems like back taxes, audits, wage garnishments, and IRS or FTB collection actions through legal representation and negotiation with tax authorities.

What a Los Angeles Tax Relief Attorney Can Do for You:

• Stop aggressive collection actions – Halt wage garnishments, bank levies, and asset seizures
• Negotiate debt reduction – Secure an Offer in Compromise or installment agreement
• Represent you in audits and appeals – Protect your rights and challenge incorrect assessments
• Handle Tax Court litigation – Defend you in federal or state tax disputes
• Resolve state tax issues – Deal with California FTB, CDTFA, and EDD
• Achieve tax compliance – File unfiled returns and get you back on track

If you owe money to the IRS or the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB), your finances and assets are at immediate risk. The IRS can legally garnish your paycheck without going to court, freeze your bank accounts without warning, and place federal tax liens that prevent you from selling or refinancing property.

Los Angeles taxpayers face unique pressure. The high cost of living and complex state and local tax rules create a perfect storm for tax problems. Whether you’re dealing with unfiled returns, payroll tax issues, or an aggressive audit, the consequences of inaction are severe.

The stakes are high. Without expert legal help, you risk losing your wages, your bank accounts, and even your home. Many taxpayers fall victim to national “tax relief” companies that make unrealistic promises, charge excessive fees, and provide insufficient representation. You need a local, experienced attorney who understands both federal and California tax law.

As Attorney Samuel Landis, I have over 15 years of experience helping Los Angeles taxpayers resolve complex IRS and state tax cases. My work as a los angeles tax relief attorney empowers clients to achieve financial freedom through strategic negotiation and expert legal representation.

Basic los angeles tax relief attorney glossary:

• IRS audit attorney LA
• Tax defense attorney LA
• la tax attorney

Understanding the Stakes: Common Tax Problems and Aggressive Collections

When you find yourself in a challenging tax situation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The sheer complexity of tax law, coupled with the aggressive collection tactics of federal and state agencies, can turn a financial hiccup into a full-blown crisis. We understand these pressures and are here to guide you.

Common tax problems that often bring Los Angeles taxpayers to our door include unfiled tax returns, large accumulated tax debt, and critical payroll tax issues that can jeopardize a business’s existence. The IRS audited 582,944 tax returns in Fiscal Year 2023, resulting in $31.9 billion in recommended additional taxes, illustrating the high stakes involved. State tax disputes, particularly with the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB), California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), and Employment Development Department (EDD), add another layer of complexity.

Ignoring these issues is never an option. Tax problems don’t simply disappear; in fact, they compound with penalties and interest daily. The taxing authorities are relentless in their pursuit of unpaid taxes, and their collection powers are extensive.

The Power of the IRS and FTB

Both the IRS and the FTB possess significant authority to collect what they claim taxpayers owe. These powers are designed to compel payment and can have devastating effects on your finances and personal life.

Here are some of the aggressive collection actions they can take:

• Wage Garnishment: The IRS can legally garnish a portion of your paycheck without going to court. This creates immediate financial strain by diverting your hard-earned income directly to the government. If you are facing this, we can help provide more info about The IRS can legally garnish your paycheck.
• Bank Levy: When the IRS or FTB places a tax levy on your bank account, they can freeze and seize funds without warning. This can disrupt your ability to pay bills, cover living expenses, and manage your daily finances. For more information on this, check out More info about tax levies.
• Tax Lien: Federal tax liens can prevent you from selling or refinancing property, as they establish the government’s legal claim to your assets. This significantly impacts your credit and financial flexibility. You can find a general overview of how federal tax liens work from the IRS itself at IRS tax lien information.
• Asset Seizure: In more severe cases, the IRS and FTB can seize personal or business assets, including real estate, vehicles, and business equipment, to satisfy unpaid balances.
• Passport Revocation: For significant tax debts, the IRS has the authority to request the State Department to deny or revoke your U.S. passport, severely limiting international travel.
• Redirecting Payments: For businesses, taxing authorities can compel your business clients to pay the tax agency directly instead of you, effectively cutting off your revenue stream.

It’s crucial to be aware of the different statutes of limitations. The IRS generally has a 10-year statute of limitations to collect back taxes from the date of assessment. However, the FTB in California has an even longer reach, with a 20-year statute of limitations on the amount of time they have to collect back taxes. These periods can also be “tolled” or paused by various actions, such as requesting an Offer in Compromise or filing a Collection Due Process appeal, meaning the clock stops running in the government’s favor. This makes proactive and informed action essential.

Common Tax Issues We Resolve

Our firm specializes in navigating the intricate landscape of tax law, offering comprehensive solutions for a wide range of common tax problems faced by Los Angeles residents and businesses. We pride ourselves on turning complex IRS issues into success stories.

Some of the most frequent challenges we help our clients overcome include:

• Back Taxes: Whether due to unfiled returns or underpayment, accumulated back taxes can lead to severe penalties and interest. We assist in quantifying the debt, exploring relief options, and negotiating with tax authorities. Find more info about More info about back taxes.
• Unfiled Tax Returns: Failing to file tax returns can result in substantial penalties, loss of refunds, and even criminal investigations. Before relief options can be pursued, all required tax returns must be properly filed. We help clients get back into compliance. Check out More info about unfiled tax returns.
• Audit Representation: The IRS audits over half a million tax returns each year. Certain categories, including self-employed individuals, high-income earners, and small business owners, face significantly higher scrutiny. We provide full-service audit defense, managing all communication with the IRS, protecting your legal rights, and building a strategic response. For an independent overview of the audit process, you can review IRS Publication 556.
• Cryptocurrency Tax Issues: The burgeoning world of digital assets introduces new and often confusing tax obligations. We guide clients through reporting requirements and resolve issues related to cryptocurrency transactions. Learn more about More info about cryptocurrency tax liability.
• Employment Tax (941) Problems: For businesses, delinquent payroll taxes are a top priority for the IRS and EDD and can lead to severe penalties, including the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty. We help employers resolve these critical issues to avoid business disruption.
• Innocent Spouse Relief: If you are jointly liable for tax debt incurred by a spouse or former spouse, we can help determine if you qualify for innocent spouse relief, which could free you from that liability.

Your Arsenal of Tax Relief Solutions

Facing tax debt can feel like an uphill battle, but you’re not alone. A qualified los angeles tax relief attorney can equip you with the right strategies and programs to resolve your tax issues effectively. We understand that each client’s situation is unique, which is why we offer custom solutions to reduce, reverse, or manage your tax debt.

Our primary goal is to achieve compliance and provide you with financial breathing room. Although the IRS and California tax authorities are aggressive in collecting taxes, they also offer programs designed to help taxpayers get back on track.

Offer in Compromise (OIC)

An Offer in Compromise (OIC) allows certain taxpayers to settle their tax liability with the IRS or state for less than the full amount owed. This can be a game-changer for those facing impossible tax debt. To qualify, you must demonstrate that you cannot pay your full tax liability or that there’s doubt as to the validity of the debt. The IRS has strict eligibility requirements; you can get a preliminary idea by using the official IRS Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier tool. The IRS will only consider an OIC if you are current on all tax filings and not in an active bankruptcy.

There are three main types of OICs:

1. Doubt as to Collectibility: This is the most common type, where you convince the IRS that you cannot pay the full amount of tax due, based on your current financial situation, including income, assets, and expenses.
2. Doubt as to Liability: This applies if there’s a genuine doubt that you actually owe the tax debt. For example, if you believe the IRS made an error in assessing your tax.
3. Effective Tax Administration (ETA): This is for situations where collecting the full amount would cause significant economic hardship or would be unfair and inequitable, even if there’s no doubt about the amount owed or your ability to pay.

Our firm boasts a high success rate in negotiating OICs, often settling debts for a fraction of the original amount. For instance, we’ve seen taxpayer liabilities of $398,864 settled for $85,000, and even $602,276.94 settled for just $1,470 in complex cases. These outcomes are possible through meticulous financial analysis and strategic negotiation. Find more info about More info about IRS Offer in Compromise.

Installment Agreements

If an OIC isn’t feasible, or if you can afford to pay your debt over time, an Installment Agreement (IA) can be an excellent solution. This allows you to make monthly payments to the IRS or state tax agency over an extended period, typically up to 72 months. A structured payment plan can stop enforced collection activity, prevent further penalties, and provide significant financial breathing room.

There are several types of Installment Agreements:

• Guaranteed Installment Agreement: For tax debt under $10,000, often secured with minimal paperwork.
• Streamlined Installment Agreement: For debt under $50,000, generally avoiding financial disclosures and lasting up to 72 months.
• Partial Payment Installment Agreement: Allows affordable monthly payments if you cannot pay the full debt within the collection statute.
• Short-Term Payment Plan: Provides up to 180 days to pay your tax debt in full.

We can help negotiate payment terms that align with your budget and protect your assets. However, be aware that IAs can be revoked if you fail to file future tax returns, miss a payment, or provide false information. Learn more about Details on IRS payment plans.

Penalty Abatement and Other Relief Options

Beyond reducing the principal tax debt, we also focus on alleviating the burden of penalties and interest. Tax penalties can quickly inflate your total debt, but they can often be reduced or removed under certain circumstances.

• Penalty Abatement: This involves requesting the IRS or state to remove penalties due to “reasonable cause.” This means demonstrating that you exercised ordinary business care and prudence but were unable to comply with tax laws due to circumstances beyond your control (e.g., serious illness, natural disaster, incorrect advice from a tax professional).
• First-Time Abate (FTA): If you have a clean compliance history for the past three years, you may qualify for abatement of failure-to-file, failure-to-pay, and failure-to-deposit penalties for a single tax period.
• Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status: If you genuinely cannot afford to pay any of your tax debt without experiencing financial hardship, we can help you apply for CNC status. This temporarily pauses collection actions, though interest and penalties may continue to accrue, and your financial situation will be reviewed periodically. For more information, please see More info about IRS penalty abatement.

Why You Need a Los Angeles Tax Relief Attorney to Fight for You

When facing the complexities of tax law and the formidable power of tax agencies, the guidance of a skilled los angeles tax relief attorney is not just beneficial—it’s often essential. We provide legal protection, strategic negotiation, and expert navigation through the labyrinthine tax code, ensuring you avoid common pitfalls and achieve the best possible outcome.

Tax Attorney vs. Other Tax Professionals

Understanding the distinct roles of various tax professionals is crucial when seeking tax relief. While CPAs and Enrolled Agents (EAs) play vital roles in tax preparation and some aspects of representation, tax attorneys offer a unique level of legal expertise, particularly when disputes escalate or involve legal interpretation.

When it comes to complex tax disputes, criminal tax investigations, or the need to litigate in Tax Court, a tax attorney’s legal training and privilege are invaluable.

What to Look for in a Los Angeles Tax Relief Attorney

Choosing the right los angeles tax relief attorney is a critical decision that can significantly impact your financial future. Here’s what to prioritize:

• Local Expertise: A local attorney understands both federal tax laws and the specific nuances of California’s complex state and local tax codes. They are familiar with local IRS and state agency procedures and personnel.
• Verifiable Credentials: Look for attorneys with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and an active state bar license. Additional certifications, like being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or a Board Certified Taxation Law Specialist, indicate a deeper level of expertise.
• Experience with IRS & FTB: Ensure the attorney has a proven track record of successfully resolving cases with both federal (IRS) and California state agencies (FTB, CDTFA, EDD). Experience as a former IRS attorney, like our founder, provides an invaluable “inside-out” perspective.
• Clear Fee Structure: A reputable attorney will provide a clear explanation of their fees. We believe in transparency and can discuss our fee schedule at your initial consultation. See More info about our fee schedule.
• Positive Client Reviews: Look for testimonials and reviews that highlight successful outcomes, clear communication, and professional conduct.

Pitfalls to avoid: Many taxpayers fall victim to national “tax relief” companies that make unrealistic promises, charge excessive fees, assign your case to non-attorneys, and provide insufficient representation. These “tax mills” often lack the local expertise and personalized attention needed for effective resolution. Be wary of unrealistic guarantees and high-pressure sales tactics.

The Advantage of a Dual-Licensed Attorney-CPA Team

Our firm offers a significant advantage by combining legal and accounting expertise under one roof. When attorneys and CPAs collaborate, it provides a holistic strategy that leverages the best of both worlds.

• Legal Protection for Financial Data: The attorney-client privilege extends to financial information shared with our firm, protecting sensitive data that might otherwise be findable in an audit or legal proceeding.
• Seamless Tax Preparation and Defense: CPAs handle the meticulous financial analysis, accurate reporting, and preparation of tax returns, ensuring compliance. Attorneys then review legal exposure, interpret complex guidance, and identify risks or opportunities, leading to legally defensible filings.
• Proactive Planning: This integrated approach allows for proactive tax planning, identifying deductions and credits, and addressing prior-year compliance issues before they escalate into larger problems.
• Comprehensive Strategy: We can analyze your financial situation from both an accounting and legal perspective, crafting a robust defense and resolution plan that maximizes your chances of success.

This collaborative model ensures that your tax matters are handled with both financial precision and legal acumen, providing comprehensive protection and optimal outcomes.

The Path to Resolution: From Audits to Tax Court

Navigating tax problems requires a clear, strategic path. With a dedicated los angeles tax relief attorney by your side, you can move from uncertainty to resolution with confidence. Our process is designed to be transparent and effective, guiding you every step of the way.

The general steps in the tax relief process with our firm are:

1. Initial Consultation: We begin with a free, confidential consultation to understand your specific tax issues, assess your situation, and discuss your rights and available options.
2. Investigation and Strategy: We conduct a thorough investigation, retrieving IRS and state tax transcripts, analyzing your financial records, and identifying the best course of action. This leads to a customized resolution strategy.
3. Resolution and Negotiation: We then implement the strategy, negotiating directly with the IRS, FTB, CDTFA, or EDD on your behalf. This could involve proposing an Offer in Compromise, setting up an Installment Agreement, or requesting Penalty Abatement.
4. Final Compliance: Our goal is not just to resolve your current debt but to ensure you achieve and maintain full tax compliance, providing long-term financial freedom.

Handling IRS Audits and Appeals

IRS audits can be daunting, but with proper representation, they don’t have to be devastating. The IRS closed 582,944 tax return audits in Fiscal Year 2023.

• Audit Triggers: Audits can be triggered by various factors, including mismatches on W-2s or 1099s, unusual deductions, or random selection. Certain categories, like self-employed individuals and high-income earners, face higher scrutiny.
• Correspondence vs. Field Audits: Audits can range from simple correspondence audits (by mail) to more invasive field audits conducted at your home or business.
• Managing IRS Communication: We manage all communication with the IRS, protecting your legal rights and preventing you from inadvertently providing more information than required.
• Protecting Your Rights: An experienced attorney ensures that the audit process adheres to legal standards and that your rights are upheld throughout.
• The IRS Office of Appeals: If you’re not satisfied with the outcome of an audit, you have the right to challenge it through the IRS Office of Appeals. This independent organization functions separately from enforcement divisions and aims to resolve disputes fairly, often leading to a settlement without litigation. We can handle all aspects of the appeals process. Learn more about More info about IRS audit representation.

Tax Court Representation and Statutes of Limitation

Sometimes, administrative appeals aren’t enough, and litigation becomes necessary.

• When to Go to Tax Court: If you’ve received a final decision from the IRS that you believe is incorrect, or if a settlement cannot be reached through appeals, you may need to petition the United States Tax Court.
• 90-day Notice of Deficiency Deadline: It’s critical to act quickly. You must file a petition in the U.S. Tax Court within 90 days of receiving a Notice of Deficiency, as required by the statute of limitations under IRC § 6213(a). Missing this deadline can lead to immediate collection actions.
• Litigation Strategy: While you can represent yourself, Tax Court involves strict procedural rules, evidentiary standards, and complex litigation strategy. A qualified los angeles tax relief attorney can draft the petition, represent you in pre-trial conferences, and argue your case effectively if it goes to trial. Our experience in Tax Court, both from the government and private sector, gives us a unique advantage. Learn more about More info about IRS appeals.

Frequently Asked Questions about Los Angeles Tax Relief

How much does it cost to hire a tax relief attorney in Los Angeles?

The cost of hiring a los angeles tax relief attorney can vary significantly based on the complexity of your case, the amount of debt involved, and the specific services required (e.g., audit defense, Offer in Compromise, collection defense). Some firms, like ours, may offer a free initial consultation to assess your situation. Fees can be structured as flat fees for specific services or hourly rates for ongoing representation. We believe in transparency and will discuss our fee structure clearly during your initial consultation so you understand the investment involved.

Can a tax attorney really reduce my IRS debt?

Yes, absolutely. A skilled los angeles tax relief attorney can significantly reduce your IRS debt through various programs and strategies. This includes negotiating an Offer in Compromise to settle for less than the full amount, securing penalty abatements for reasonable cause, or challenging incorrect tax assessments through audits and appeals. While success depends on your financial situation and the specifics of your case, our goal is always to achieve the maximum possible reduction or the most favorable payment terms. We have a proven track record of saving clients millions of dollars.

How quickly can a Los Angeles tax relief attorney stop a wage garnishment?

Stopping a wage garnishment is often a top priority for our clients, and we can typically act very quickly, sometimes within 24-48 hours. Upon engaging our services, a los angeles tax relief attorney can immediately contact the IRS or state agency to negotiate a release. This usually involves demonstrating that you are working towards a resolution, such as submitting a payment plan proposal or an Offer in Compromise. Immediate action is key to minimizing the financial impact of a garnishment.

Take the First Step Towards Financial Freedom

The severe consequences of unresolved tax debt, from wage garnishments and bank levies to the inability to sell your property, are a heavy burden to bear. We understand the stress and anxiety that tax problems can cause, especially in a vibrant city like Los Angeles where financial stability is paramount.

You don’t have to face the IRS or state tax authorities alone. A professional los angeles tax relief attorney provides not just legal representation, but a clear path to resolution and the peace of mind you deserve. With over 33 years of experience and 25,000+ satisfied clients, Segal, Cohen & Landis has built a reputation for expert, accessible service, helping individuals and businesses across Los Angeles and beyond reclaim their financial lives.

We are committed to providing sophisticated guidance and steadfast advocacy, ensuring you receive the best possible outcome. Don’t let tax debt control your future. Take the proactive step towards financial freedom today.

Contact us today for a consultation