You may not be aware that the IRS has many payment plans that you can access when you find out that you owe back taxes.
A tax professional can help you learn about these payment plans and then assist you in negotiating the solution that's best for your particular financial situation.
When it comes to payment plans, you'll first have to decide if you need one.
Don't rule out paying in full.
If there's some way that you could gather the money from accounts that you have in order to pay in full, you should consider it.
That way the bill will be paid and the burden lifted off your shoulders.
You won't be dragging out the repayment process and accruing more interest.
This might be the way to go even if you fear severely depleting your funds.
It's also possible to borrow the money from family, friends, and other sources in order to pay in full.
If that's an option, consider it seriously.
If you can't pay in full, you'll have to think about a payment installment plan.
You can work this out with the IRS.
They may not seem sympathetic at first, but once it's known that you're sincere and intend to pay back the money, you'll receive fair treatment.
Maybe you'll even be forgiven part or all of the penalties that have been added to the amount if the IRS is happy with the terms you are accepting.
You can also pay a good share of the full amount at once and then make installments for the balance.
The choices are many and varied, but they have to be agreed upon by both sides.
You probably want to find a good tax professional or firm to help you negotiate these waters.
You need to use specific forms and follow specific steps.
A tax professional knows what is needed.
You'll offset the expense for the service because of the money you will be saving with their help.
Once you've shown that you mean business and are not avoiding your responsibilities, the IRS will be willing to help you make a payment plan that works for both of you.