How to Determine Outstanding IRS Tax Debt

Navigating tax obligations can be a daunting task, and the prospect of owing money to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) can be particularly stressful. If you’re uncertain about your tax status or suspect you may have an outstanding balance, there are several avenues you can explore to ascertain the truth.

1. Visit the IRS Website

The IRS website, www.irs.gov, provides a wealth of information and resources for taxpayers. To check your account status and determine if you owe any taxes, follow these steps:

Visit the IRS website and click on the “Individuals” tab.
Under the “Taxes” section, select “Get Transcript.”
You will be prompted to create an account or log in using your existing IRS credentials.
Once logged in, you can view your tax account information, including any outstanding balances.

2. Contact the IRS by Phone

If you prefer to speak to a live representative, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. The IRS phone lines are typically open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM local time, Monday through Friday. When you call, be prepared to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and mailing address. The IRS representative can provide you with information about your account balance and any payment options available to you.

3. Visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center

If you need in-person assistance, you can visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). TACs are located in major cities across the country. To find the TAC nearest you, visit the IRS website and enter your zip code. At a TAC, you can speak to an IRS representative who can help you with your tax questions and provide information about your account balance.

4. Hire a Tax Professional

If you’re uncomfortable dealing with the IRS directly or have a complex tax situation, you may want to consider hiring a tax professional. A tax professional can help you review your tax records, determine if you owe any taxes, and represent you in dealings with the IRS.

5. Check Your Credit Report

While not a direct method of determining your IRS tax debt, checking your credit report can provide insights into your overall financial situation. If you have any unpaid tax debts, they may be reported on your credit report as “federal tax liens.” Federal tax liens can negatively impact your credit score and make it more difficult to obtain loans or other forms of credit.

Determining if you owe money to the IRS is crucial for maintaining good financial standing and avoiding potential penalties. By utilizing the resources and methods outlined above, you can proactively address any outstanding tax obligations and take steps to resolve them. Remember, the IRS is committed to assisting taxpayers and providing guidance throughout the tax filing process. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact the IRS for support.

I Owe The IRS $14,000 And I’m Freaking Out

FAQ

Can you look up online what you owe the IRS?

You can access your federal tax account through a secure login at IRS.gov/account. View the amount you owe, along with details of your balance, your payment history, tax records, and key tax return information from your most recent tax return as originally filed.

How do I know if I owe money to the IRS?

Determining if you owe back taxes may be as simple as filing or amending a previous year’s tax return. Contact the IRS at 800-829-1040. You can also call the IRS to get more information on your outstanding tax bill.

Is IRS debt forgiven after 10 years?

Yes, after 10 years, the IRS forgives tax debt. However, it is important to note that there are certain circumstances, such as bankruptcy or certain collection activities, which may extend the statute of limitations.

How do I contact the IRS if I owe money?

You can authorize someone to contact the IRS with you or on your behalf. The IRS won’t call, text or contact you via social media to demand immediate tax payment. We begin with a letter in the mail and explain how you can appeal or question what you owe.

How do I find out if I owe the IRS taxes in person?

To find out if you owe the IRS taxes in person, you can visit an **IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center** or a **Low Income Taxpayer Clinic** . You can also check your tax records, make or view

What if I owe money to the IRS?

If you owe money to the IRS, you typically will receive a notice with the amount you owe. You can also check your balance by requesting a transcript, which gives you more detail than a notice would. If you can’t pay your balance in full, you can set up an online payment agreement to avoid additional fees and penalties.

How do I contact the IRS?

You’ll also find an address if you want to reach out to the IRS in writing. If you can’t find contact information on the notice, or if you misplaced your notice after receiving it, you can call the IRS’s general customer service number at 1-800-829-1040. Business taxpayers should call 1-800-829-4933.