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PJN Tax Solutions Group, Inc. Get tax relief from one of the Nations Leading Experts in resolving back taxes and IRS problems!

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10/21/2026

Picked up a heart-shaped pizza for our 8 years of marital bliss

10/20/2026

What is a Levy? IRS and Other Asset Levies Explained

Falling behind on your debts is never a fun place to be. In this article, we take a look at what an IRS levy is, why it happens, and what you can do about it.

What is an IRS Levy?

Simply put, if you owe back taxes and you ignore the IRS, the IRS can seize your property, take money from your bank accounts, or sell your assets in order to satisfy the balance due.

The IRS will give you plenty of notices via mail before they take this step. If you do not satisfy the debt or make payment arrangements by the specified date, the IRS will attempt to take the amount of the levy directly out of your bank account.

Other types of levies

Private creditors may issue a levy against your bank account with a court order.

Court orders are NOT required for levies by government agencies.

Funds earned from child support, social security, unemployment, workers’ compensation settlements and certain other types of government agency payments are exempt from levy. You must request the exemption and offer proof of the source of the funds.

Wage Garnishments

Government agencies may also garnish an employee’s wages for back taxes, child support and other delinquent payments required by law.

The IRS has the authority to levy up to 85 percent of the employee’s paycheck. The levy notice will be sent to your company’s payroll or human resources department. They must then withhold the appropriate amount of money from the employee’s paycheck and send it to the IRS or state tax board. The employee must provide a wage garnishment release if he is able to work out a payment arrangement.

If you are behind on your taxes, the IRS may levy most payments from federal agencies. This includes railroad retirement benefits, Medicare supplier and provider payments, payments on contracts between your company and a government agency, federal retirement annuities and travel reimbursements.

You may apply for a hardship exemption if the levy will cause your company undue financial distress. Companies going through bankruptcy proceedings are automatically exempt from IRS levies.

Seizing Your Assets

The IRS may also seize your real estate and personal property such as a car or boat. You will receive a 30-day notice indicating that seizures will follow if you do not pay your outstanding taxes or contact the IRS to make payment arrangements. This authority also extends to property and money you own that are being held by another party, such as life insurance cash value.

What To Do If You Have An IRS Levy

Back taxes don’t just disappear if you ignore them long enough. Putting your head in the sand will cause the problem to get worse.

If you have back tax debt, we highly recommend you reach out to our firm first. Our clients never have to talk to the IRS. You might also be eligible for other IRS relief programs or get your penalties reduced or removed. Reach out to our firm today for a FREE confidential consultation.

630/415-5296

10/15/2026

Avoid These 5 Common Tax Filing Mistakes That Can Get You In Tax Trouble

Whether you file the simple 1040EZ or a complex 1040 and a raft of schedules, making a mistake on your tax form could lead to big tax trouble.

The tax agency sees mistakes every year, and IRS representatives warn taxpayers to be careful when filling out their forms. Even if you think you have everything filled out perfectly, it never hurts to double-check and look for these common tax day errors.

#1 – Assuming Your Tax Pro Prepared Your Taxes Properly

Blindly trusting your accountant or tax preparer to file your taxes correctly can be costly. Of course you want to assume they do a great job, and most tax professionals do, but letting them file without your thorough review is a mistake.

These are sometimes honest mistakes that if not caught early, can trigger red flags and have the IRS sending you letters of balances due.

No one knows your financial situation better than you do so it’s important you double check your return so you’re not blindsided with an unwanted surprise.

#2 – Waiting Until the Last Minute

Filing taxes is stressful enough. Give yourself plenty of time to gather all the necessary documents and complete your return.

Keep in mind that unexpected problems could interfere with your last-minute tax filing plans. Getting your taxes done early is the only way to protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances that can delay your tax filing.

#3 – Failing to File on Time

If you cannot file your return on time, you can ask for an extension. Even if your documents are in disarray, there is no excuse for not filing on time. Filing an extension gives you six more months to get everything in order and complete your return.

Keep in mind that you will still need to estimate the tax you owe and make your payment, even if you file an extension. Filing an extension extends the amount of time you have to get your return to the IRS, but it does not provide a reprieve from your tax debt.

#4 – Not Making a Backup or Keeping Good Records

Making backup copies of your tax returns, income documents and schedules is an essential part of tax planning and preparation.

Once you have completed your return, be sure to make copies of every document, including your W-2 form and tax schedules, before sending the return to the IRS. If you file electronically, be sure to save a PDF copy of your return before completing the final step. Ordering a lost copy of a past year’s return from the IRS is time-consuming and expensive.

#5 – Ignoring Letters From The IRS After You File Your Taxes.

Even if you have the intention of paying your taxes soon you should still take action and either get on an installment agreement or reach out to a tax relief firm if your financial situation requires it.

OWE BACK TAXES?

Reach out to our firm and we’ll schedule a no-obligation confidential consultation to explain your options to permanently resolve your tax problem.

Call us 630/415-5296

10/14/2026

Avoiding Wage Garnishments: What to Do When the IRS Comes After Your Paycheck

What Is Wage Garnishment?

Wage garnishment is a legal process where the IRS directs your employer to withhold a portion of your wages to satisfy an outstanding tax debt.

Here’s how it typically works:

Notice of Intent to Levy: Before garnishing wages, the IRS sends a Notice of Intent to Levy (Form CP504), informing you of their plan to seize your assets if you don’t address the debt.

Final Notice and Hearing: The IRS then issues a Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Your Right to a Hearing (Form LT11 or Letter 1058). You have 30 days to request a hearing or resolve the issue.

Wage Garnishment Begins: If no action is taken, the IRS notifies your employer to start withholding a portion of your paycheck.

How Much Can the IRS Garnish?

The IRS doesn’t take your entire paycheck but rather a portion based on exemptions determined by federal law. The exempt amount is typically minimal, and the garnishment can leave you struggling to cover basic living expenses.

Steps to Avoid or Stop Wage Garnishment

If you’ve received a notice from the IRS or are already experiencing wage garnishment, there are several actions you can take to protect your paycheck:

1. Address the Problem Immediately
Ignoring IRS notices will only worsen the situation. As soon as you receive a Notice of Intent to Levy, take it seriously and act promptly

2. Request a Collection Due Process (CDP) Hearing
If you receive a Final Notice of Intent to Levy, you have 30 days to request a CDP hearing. This hearing gives you the opportunity to present your case, negotiate a resolution, or contest the garnishment.

3. Enter into a Payment Agreement
One of the most effective ways to stop wage garnishment is to enter into a payment agreement with the IRS. This could include:
Installment Agreement: Spread your payments over time to resolve the debt in manageable installments.

Offer in Compromise (OIC): Settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed if you qualify.

Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status: Temporarily halt collection efforts if you’re experiencing significant financial hardship.

What to Do If Wage Garnishment Has Already Begun

If the IRS has already started garnishing your wages, don’t despair—you still have options to stop or reduce the garnishment:

Negotiate a Payment Plan: Contact the IRS to discuss payment options and request that the garnishment be lifted in exchange for entering into a payment agreement.

Prove Financial Hardship: If the garnishment is causing significant financial hardship, you may be able to convince the IRS to stop or reduce the garnishment.

Pay the Debt in Full: If possible, paying the debt in full will immediately stop the garnishment.

If you’re facing wage garnishment or want to avoid it altogether, don’t wait—reach out to PJN Tax Solutions at 630/415-5296

10/13/2026

Are You Eligible for Penalty Abatement?

Tax penalties can significantly increase the amount you owe to the IRS or state tax agencies, turning an already challenging financial situation into an overwhelming one. However, you might not have to pay those penalties in full. The IRS offers penalty abatement programs that can reduce or eliminate penalties in certain situations.

What is Penalty Abatement?

Penalty abatement is a relief option provided by the IRS to reduce or eliminate certain penalties imposed on taxpayers.

Common penalties that may qualify for abatement include:

Failure to File penalties for not submitting your tax return on time.
Failure to Pay penalties for not paying the full amount of tax owed by the due date.

Eligibility Requirements for Penalty Abatement

The IRS evaluates penalty abatement requests based on specific criteria. Here are the most common scenarios under which taxpayers may qualify:

Reasonable Cause

The IRS may grant penalty relief if you can show that your failure to comply was due to a reasonable cause. Acceptable reasons include:

Serious illness or injury affecting you or a family member.
Natural disasters, fires, or other unforeseen events.
Inability to obtain necessary financial records.
Reliance on incorrect professional advice.

First-Time Penalty Abatement (FTA)

If you’ve been compliant with your tax filings and payments in the past, you may qualify for First-Time Penalty Abatement. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

No penalties for the prior three tax years.
All required returns filed for the current year.
Any outstanding tax due has been paid or arrangements made to pay.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Requesting Penalty Abatement

Submitting a request for penalty abatement can be challenging, and mistakes may lead to delays or denials. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Failing to Provide Sufficient Documentation

Your request must be backed by evidence. Without proper documentation, the IRS is unlikely to approve your claim.

Overlooking the First-Time Penalty Abatement Option

Many taxpayers don’t realize they qualify for First-Time Penalty Abatement. Review your history to see if you meet the criteria.

Ignoring the Importance of Compliance

You must be current with all tax filings and payments before the IRS will consider your request. Ensure your current tax obligations are up to date.

Procrastinating

The sooner you address penalty abatement, the better. Delays can lead to additional penalties and interest accumulating on your tax debt.

Conclusion

If you’re unsure of your eligibility or need help navigating the process, one of our tax resolution specialists can guide you every step of the way. Don’t let penalties hold you back. Contact PJN Tax Solutions to start resolving your tax issues today.

Call us today 630/415-5296

10/08/2026

Understanding Offer in Compromise: Can You Settle for Less?

If you’re overwhelmed by tax debt and struggling to see a way out, the IRS has a program that might be the lifeline you need. It’s called an Offer in Compromise (OIC), and it allows taxpayers to settle their tax debt for less than the full amount owed.

What Is an Offer in Compromise?

An Offer in Compromise is a program offered by the IRS that allows eligible taxpayers to resolve their tax debt for less than the total amount owed.

How Does the Offer in Compromise Process Work?

The Offer in Compromise process involves several key steps:

Submitting Your Application
Taxpayers must submit Form 656, Offer in Compromise, along with Form 433-A (OIC) for individuals or Form 433-B (OIC) for businesses.

Paying the Application Fee
Most applicants are required to pay a $205 application fee.

Choosing a Payment Option
When submitting an OIC, you must propose how you plan to pay the offered amount. The IRS offers two main payment options:

Lump-Sum Cash Offer: Pay 20% of the offered amount upfront and the remaining balance within five months of acceptance.

Periodic Payment Offer: Make the first payment with your application and continue paying monthly installments while the IRS reviews your offer.

IRS Evaluation
The IRS carefully reviews your application, assessing whether the amount you’re offering is the most they can reasonably expect to collect.

Decision
If the IRS accepts your offer, you must comply with all tax laws for the next five years to avoid defaulting on the agreement.

Reasons the IRS May Accept an Offer in Compromise

Doubt as to Collectibility
This applies when there is little chance the IRS will collect the full tax debt due to your financial situation.

Doubt as to Liability
If there’s a legitimate dispute over whether the assessed tax debt is correct, the IRS may accept an OIC.

Effective Tax Administration
Even if you can technically afford to pay the full amount, the IRS may accept an OIC if collecting the debt would create economic hardship or be unfair due to special circumstances.

Challenges of the Offer in Compromise Process

Complex Application Process
Submitting an accurate and compelling OIC application requires extensive documentation and knowledge of IRS procedures.

Low Acceptance Rate
The IRS accepts only a fraction of OIC applications each year, last year
around 20%.

Continued Compliance Requirement
Even after your offer is accepted, you must comply with all tax laws for five years. Failure to do so can void the agreement.

Conclusion
If you’re considering an Offer in Compromise, contact PJN Tax Solutions to schedule a consultation with an experienced tax resolution specialist.

Call us at 630/415-5296

10/07/2026

How to Prepare for an IRS Appeals Hearing

An IRS appeals hearing can be an intimidating experience, but it’s also an opportunity to resolve tax disputes without going to court. This blog outlines the steps you can take to prepare effectively and increase your chances of success.

What Is an IRS Appeals Hearing?

An IRS appeals hearing is a formal process where taxpayers can contest IRS decisions regarding audits, penalties, or other tax-related matters. The Office of Appeals is an independent division of the IRS.

Step 1: Understand Your Appeal Rights

Before attending an appeals hearing, familiarize yourself with your rights as a taxpayer. These include the right to:

Be treated professionally and respectfully.
Dispute the IRS’s findings if you believe they are incorrect.
Retain legal representation or hire a tax professional.
Access your case file to review the IRS’s evidence.

By understanding your rights, you’ll be better equipped to advocate for yourself during the hearing.

Step 2: Review the IRS Notice Carefully

Carefully review this notice to:

Identify the specific issue(s) being contested.
Note any deadlines or required actions.
Understand the IRS’s position and evidence.

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documentation

To build a strong case, you’ll need to provide evidence that supports your position. Examples of supporting documentation include:

Tax returns and related records.
Receipts, invoices, and bank statements.
Correspondence with the IRS.
Expert opinions or valuations, if applicable.

Organize your documents in a logical order and highlight key points for easy reference during the hearing.

Step 4: Prepare a Written Summary

A written summary of your case can help you present your argument clearly and concisely.

Step 5: Practice Your Presentation

Effective communication is essential during an IRS appeals hearing. Practice presenting your case in a clear, confident, and respectful manner.

Step 6: Understand the Appeals Process

Familiarize yourself with the steps involved in the appeals process so you know what to expect. Key stages include:

Pre-Hearing Preparation:
Submit requested documents and prepare your presentation.

The Hearing:
Present your case and respond to the appeals officer’s questions.

Post-Hearing Deliberation:
The appeals officer will review the evidence and make a decision.

Final Decision:
You’ll receive a written determination outlining the outcome.

Step 7: Consider Professional Representation

Navigating an IRS appeals hearing can be complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with tax laws and procedures. A tax professional can:

Provide expert advice tailored to your situation.
Help you prepare your case and documentation.
Represent you during the hearing and negotiate on your behalf.

Take Action Today

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, Call us at 630 415-5296 to schedule a FREE consultation and take the first step toward resolving your tax dispute.

10/06/2026

How to Know When You Need a Tax Resolution Specialist and How They Can Help

Dealing with tax issues can be one of the most stressful experiences in life.

Signs You Need a Tax Resolution Specialist

If you’re unsure whether you need professional assistance, here are some common signs that it’s time to contact a tax resolution specialist:

Receiving Notices from the IRS or State Tax Agency
If you’ve received letters or notices from the IRS or your state tax agency, it’s essential to address them promptly.

Facing Wage Garnishments or Bank Levies
When the IRS or a state tax agency begins garnishing your wages or levying your bank account, it’s a clear sign that immediate action is needed.

Owing Back Taxes You Can’t Afford to Pay
If you owe more taxes than you can reasonably pay, a specialist can help you explore options like installment agreements or Offers in Compromise to reduce your burden.

Being Selected for a Tax Audit
Audits can be intimidating, especially if you’re unsure of how to respond.

Struggling with Complex Tax Laws
Tax laws are notoriously complicated, and even small mistakes can lead to significant penalties.

What Does a Tax Resolution Specialist Do?

Assessing Your Tax Situation
Tax resolution specialists begin by analyzing your financial records, tax returns, and correspondence with the IRS or state tax agencies.

Navigating Tax Laws and Procedures
With their in-depth knowledge of tax laws and IRS procedures, specialists can ensure compliance and help you avoid additional penalties.

Representing You Before Tax Agencies
Dealing with the IRS or state tax agencies can be stressful and intimidating.

Negotiating Settlements and Payment Plans
Whether it’s an Offer in Compromise, penalty abatement, or an installment agreement, tax resolution specialists are skilled negotiators.

Protecting Your Rights
Taxpayers have rights, and a tax resolution specialist ensures that those rights are upheld.

Common Tax Issues Addressed by Specialists

Here are some of the most common problems a tax resolution specialist can help with:

Unpaid Tax Debts
If you owe back taxes, a specialist can help create a plan to address the debt.

Tax Liens and Levies
A specialist can negotiate to have liens and levies removed or prevented, protecting your assets.

Wage Garnishments
Specialists can work to stop wage garnishments and help you resolve the underlying tax issue.

Tax Audits
Facing an audit? A tax resolution specialist can represent you during the process.

Penalty Abatement
If you’ve been hit with penalties, a specialist can request abatement if you have reasonable cause.

Conclusion

If you’re dealing with tax problems, take the first step toward resolution today. Call PJN Tax Solutions to speak with a qualified tax resolution specialist.

Our office number is 630/415-5296

10/01/2026

Tax Debt Resolution Options: Which One Is Right for You?

Dealing with tax debt can feel overwhelming. Whether you owe a small amount or a significant sum, finding the right resolution option is essential to avoiding penalties, interest, and enforcement actions from the IRS. In this blog, we’ll explore these options in detail to help you determine which one might be right for you.

Why Resolving Tax Debt Matters

Unresolved tax debt doesn’t just go away—it grows. The IRS adds penalties and interest to unpaid taxes, which can quickly turn a manageable debt into a substantial financial burden. Beyond monetary consequences, the IRS can take enforcement actions such as wage garnishments, bank levies, or property liens.

Here’s an overview of the most common resolution options available.

1. Installment Agreement
An Installment Agreement allows you to pay your tax debt over time in manageable monthly installments.

Key Benefits:
Spreads payments over time.
Prevents more aggressive IRS enforcement actions.
Easy to set up for debts under $50,000.

Considerations:
Interest and penalties continue to accrue until the balance is paid in full.
Missing payments can result in default and additional penalties.

2. Offer in Compromise (OIC)

An Offer in Compromise allows eligible taxpayers to settle their tax debt for less than the full amount owed.

Key Benefits:
Potentially reduces your overall tax liability.
Provides a fresh start if approved.

Considerations:
Strict eligibility criteria.
Requires full disclosure of financial information.
The application process can be time-consuming.

3. Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status

This status temporarily halts IRS collection efforts, such as wage garnishments or levies.

Key Benefits:
Provides immediate relief from collection actions.
Allows you to focus on improving your financial situation.

Considerations:
Interest and penalties continue to accrue.
The IRS will review your financial situation periodically to determine if CNC status should continue.

CNC status can be a lifeline for those in financial distress.

4. Bankruptcy

In some cases, tax debt can be discharged through bankruptcy.

Key Benefits:
Offers a potential fresh start.
Can eliminate other financial obligations in addition to tax debt.

Considerations:
Significant impact on your credit score.
Complex legal process requiring professional guidance.

How to Choose the Right Option

Selecting the right tax debt resolution option depends on several factors, including:

The total amount of your debt.
Your current financial situation.

Take Action Today

Call us today at 630/415-5296 to schedule your free confidential consultation.

09/30/2026

Filing Back Taxes to Avoid IRS Trouble: A Simple Guide

Falling behind on filing your taxes can be a daunting situation. For many, the fear of penalties or the complexity of filing multiple years’ worth of taxes prevents them from taking action.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to file back taxes and explain why it’s important to do so.

Filing Back Taxes is Critical

Ignoring unfiled taxes doesn’t make the problem disappear. In fact, it often makes matters worse. Here’s why filing back taxes is essential:

Avoid Penalties and Interest: The IRS charges both penalties and interest on unpaid taxes EVERY SINGLE DAY!

Prevent IRS Enforcement Actions: If you fail to file, the IRS can take enforcement actions like wage garnishments, bank levies, or property liens.

Protect Your Future Refunds: If you have unfiled returns, the IRS can withhold any future tax refunds to offset your unpaid debt.

Stay Compliant: Filing your taxes is a legal obligation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Back Taxes

The process of filing back taxes may feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make it much easier.

1. Gather Your Financial Records

The first step is collecting the necessary documents for the years you need to file. These include:

W-2s or 1099s from employers or clients.
Bank and investment account statements.
Receipts for deductible expenses, such as medical bills or charitable donations.
Prior tax returns (if available).

2. Use the Correct Tax Forms

Each tax year requires its own specific forms and instructions. These can be downloaded from the IRS website. Be sure to use the correct year’s form to ensure accurate reporting.

3. Prepare Your Tax Returns

Accurately complete each return, ensuring all income and deductions are properly reported.

4. Submit Your Returns

If you owe taxes, include a payment or set up a payment arrangement to begin addressing your balance.

What to Do If You Owe Back Taxes

Owing money to the IRS can feel intimidating, but there are several options to resolve your debt:

Installment Agreements: Spread your payments over time with a manageable monthly plan.

Offer in Compromise: Settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed if you meet certain qualifications.

Currently Not Collectible Status: Temporarily halt collection efforts if you’re facing financial hardship.

The Risks of Not Filing Back Taxes

Failing to address unfiled taxes can lead to severe consequences, including:

Substitute for Return (SFR): If you don’t file, the IRS may file a substitute
return on your behalf.

Loss of Refunds: Refunds for unfiled returns are forfeited if not claimed within three years.

Tax Liens and Levies: The IRS can place liens on your property or seize your assets to collect unpaid taxes.

Criminal Charges: In extreme cases, failure to file can result in criminal prosecution.

At PJN Tax Solutions , we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Call us today 630/415-5296

Address

1601 East Main Street, Suite A
Saint Charles, IL
60174

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