IRS Fresh Start Program: Orange County's Guide to Tax Debt Relief with Boulanger CPA
What Is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
What Is the IRS Fresh Start Program?
The IRS Fresh Start Program is a tax relief initiative that helps taxpayers reduce or eliminate back taxes through structured options like installment agreements, Offers in Compromise, and penalty relief. It provides a legal way to resolve IRS debt without facing aggressive collection actions.
Originally launched in 2011, the program offers multiple tax resolution tools for individuals and businesses burdened by unpaid taxes. At Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC, we specialize in helping Orange County residents navigate the IRS Fresh Start Program and achieve long-term tax relief.
Why Orange County Taxpayers Should Act Now
Orange County, California is home to a wide range of taxpayers: business owners, freelancers, investors, and high earners. With elevated costs of living and complex tax profiles, many locals fall behind on federal and state tax obligations. IRS collections—wage garnishments, bank levies, and tax liens—can create financial chaos.
The Fresh Start Program is a strategic, IRS-sanctioned solution—but the key is expert guidance. That’s where Boulanger CPA becomes your most valuable ally.
Key Components of the IRS Fresh Start Program
1. Streamlined Installment Agreements
For those who owe $50,000 or less, the IRS offers simplified payment plans. These allow you to resolve your debt over time—usually up to 72 months—without providing detailed financials.
Benefits:
- No financial disclosure required under $50K
- Easy monthly payments
- Avoids liens and levies
At Boulanger CPA, we tailor these plans to fit your monthly cash flow, ensuring affordability and IRS compliance.
2. Offer in Compromise (OIC)
Settle your IRS debt for less than you owe. OIC is available to taxpayers who demonstrate inability to pay due to financial hardship.
Key OIC factors we help with:
- Eligibility assessment
- Financial disclosure preparation (Form 433-A/B)
- Negotiation and appeals
We’ve helped Orange County taxpayers reduce tax debts by tens of thousands through expertly crafted OIC submissions.
3. Penalty Abatement
You may qualify to eliminate IRS penalties if you:
- Are a first-time offender
- Have reasonable cause (e.g., illness, disaster, hardship)
Boulanger CPA builds strong legal arguments for relief, often combining this with other programs for maximum benefit.
4. Lien Withdrawal
If you’ve entered a Direct Debit Installment Agreement and remain compliant, the IRS may agree to withdraw filed tax liens. We handle the full lien removal process, including filing Form 12277 and communicating with the IRS Collections division.
Who Qualifies for the Fresh Start Program?
We’ve helped Orange County clients from all walks of life qualify for IRS Fresh Start relief, including:
Eligibility Criteria:
- Owe $50,000 or less (or can pay down to that level)
- Filed all required tax returns
- Up to date on estimated tax payments (if self-employed)
- Not currently in bankruptcy
Common clients include:
- Self-employed consultants
- Real estate investors
- Tech professionals with 1099 income
- Restaurant and retail owners
Why Orange County Trusts Boulanger CPA
Local Expertise, National-Level Representation
We understand the local economic landscape—whether you're in Irvine, Anaheim, Newport Beach, or Santa Ana—and how IRS policies interact with California’s own tax regulations.
We Are CPAs, Not Sales people
Unlike national tax resolution chains, we are licensed CPAs who bring real accounting, tax law, and financial strategy to the table.
Virtual First, Local Always
We offer Zoom consultations for convenience and discretion, and in-person appointments at our Orange County office by request.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Going it alone can backfire. Here’s what we help clients avoid:
- Submitting incomplete or inaccurate IRS forms (e.g., 433-A, 656)
- Ignoring California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) issues
- Defaulting on installment agreements due to poor planning
- Over-promising and under-delivering in DIY OICs
Boulanger CPA handles the paperwork, strategy, and negotiations—so you don’t have to.
Real Orange County Case Study
A Santa Ana construction subcontractor owed over $70,000 in IRS back taxes and was facing levy notices. We submitted a financial disclosure, negotiated an affordable installment plan, and successfully secured lien withdrawal within 5 months. Total savings: $18,000 in penalties and interest.
Our Proven 4-Step Process
- Free Consultation – We review your IRS records, transcripts, and liabilities.
- Tax Resolution Roadmap – You receive a custom action plan.
- IRS Communication – We handle all phone calls, forms, and deadlines.
- Relief + Ongoing Compliance – We keep you tax-compliant to prevent future issues.
Get Started Today with a Free Tax Relief Consultation
If you’re ready to finally resolve your IRS tax debt, we’re here to help. Contact Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC today for expert guidance through the Fresh Start Program.
📍 Serving Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, and all of Orange County
Don’t wait for the IRS to escalate—take control of your tax future today with Orange County’s trusted tax resolution experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still qualify if I owe more than $50,000?
Yes—by paying down your balance or providing financials, we can structure a compliant resolution.
Does this program affect my credit?
IRS tax liens can impact your credit, but withdrawing them through Fresh Start may improve your score.
Can Boulanger CPA help with California FTB tax debt too?
Absolutely. While the IRS Fresh Start Program is federal, we also help with California tax relief options.
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