How Bankruptcy Can Help You With Your Tax Debt

Many people who are financially struggling also struggle with tax debt. As a result, many turn to bankruptcy as a solution to their tax problems. Although bankruptcy can help with many types of tax issues, it cannot solve all tax problems. Knowing how bankruptcy deals with tax debt is critical in deciding whether bankruptcy is the right solution for your situation.

Bankruptcy And Taxes

In bankruptcy, tax debt is treated rather differently than other types of debt such as medical bills and credit card debt. In determining whether tax debt qualifies for a discharge, it is considered separately according to each tax year and tax return. Therefore, some tax debt may qualify for a discharge and some of it will not.

In general, in order for tax debt to be dischargeable under the bankruptcy code, it must meet several criteria:

• The person filing for bankruptcy must have completed and filed tax returns for at least two years before filing the bankruptcy petition.

• The tax debt in question must have been due for a minimum of three years. Any tax debt due for less than three years after the tax return was due (including extensions) is not dischargeable.

• There must be no attempt on the bankruptcy filer to commit tax fraud or evade his or her taxes.

• The Internal Revenue Service must have assessed the tax debt at least 240 days before the bankruptcy petition was filed. If, for whatever reason, the IRS stopped attempting to collect the tax debt during this time, the 240-day period may be extended.

If the tax debt meets all of these criteria, bankruptcy can discharge the tax debt, including any late payment penalties associated with it. Once the tax debt is discharged, the IRS can no longer collect the amount owed. However, if the debt in question does not meet these criteria, filing for bankruptcy will have no affect on it.

Consult A Cherry Hill Bankruptcy Attorney Today!

If your tax debt does not meet the above criteria, bankruptcy may still be able to help, especially if you are struggling with other debts. Since bankruptcy would eliminate most of your other debt, it would free up more of your finances to devote to paying your back taxes.

In addition to bankruptcy, there are other options for dealing with tax debt. In some cases, you may be able to negotiate with the IRS to settle the debt for a fraction of what you owe. Additionally, it is possible to work out a payment plan with the IRS.

For people struggling with tax debt, there are many options. If you are in this situation, the right option for you depends on several factors. The advice of an experienced bankruptcy attorney can be invaluable in determining the best course to take.

As an experienced bankruptcy lawyer, Attorney Joel R. Spivack has helped countless families, in Camden County and throughout South Jersey, resolve their debt issues and get a fresh financial start. Let him help you today. Call Attorney Joel R. Spivack today at 856-488-1200.