Don’t Panic: IRS Payment Relief Options Exist

The 2024 tax season officially closed on April 15, 2025, with automatic extensions granted to those living abroad, in a combat zone, or within a declared disaster area. But what if you couldn’t pay your tax bill in full?

First, take a breath — you’re not alone, and the IRS has flexible tools to help taxpayers settle their obligations. Whether you're a U.S.-based entrepreneur, a green card holder, or part of the African diaspora managing business and remittances across borders, there are structured ways to manage your tax debt without fear or shame.

We don’t just prepare taxes — we help you protect your financial future.

Give us a call or send an email today.

If You Owe Taxes But Can’t Pay In Full — Here's What To Do:

The IRS offers several payment options for individuals and small business owners who are unable to pay their tax obligations immediately. These range from online payment agreements to temporary collection delays and even settlements for those in financial hardship.

1. Online Payment Plans: Easy and Accessible

Most individuals qualify for a payment plan directly through IRS.gov.

Short-Term Payment Plan

  • For balances under $100,000 (including penalties and interest).

  • You get up to 180 days to pay in full.

  • No need for detailed paperwork or phone calls.

Long-Term Payment Plan (Installment Agreement)

  • For balances under $50,000.

  • Payments spread across up to 10 years, depending on IRS guidelines.

  • Direct debit is encouraged to reduce risk of default.

Note: Interest and late payment penalties still apply — so paying sooner saves money.

 

2. Beyond Online: Other IRS Relief Programs

If you don’t qualify for a standard online payment plan or your situation is more complex:

Offer in Compromise (OIC)

This lets some taxpayers settle their bill for less than owed. Use the IRS OIC Pre-Qualifier Tool to check eligibility before applying.
This may apply to families juggling multi-country obligations or seasonal income.

Temporary Delay of Collection

If you're going through financial hardship, you can request the IRS to pause collection efforts. This isn’t forgiveness, but it buys time.

 

3. Penalty Relief May Be Available

If you made a good-faith effort to comply with tax laws but failed due to unforeseen circumstances — such as job loss, medical expenses, or immigration status disruptions — you may qualify for penalty relief.

 

4. Protect Yourself: Know IRS Communication Rules

Be alert:

  • The IRS will not call, text, or DM you for immediate payments.

  • You’ll always receive a letter in the mail first.

  • To confirm your tax status, access your IRS Individual Online Account on IRS.gov.

 

Help is available

At Ntare Financial, we serve clients with complex cross-border finances, international student tax issues, small business owners, and diaspora investors. Our Taxpayer Relief Review Service helps:

  • Analyze your IRS notices or tax transcripts

  • Match you with the best resolution option (payment plan, offer in compromise, delay request)

  • Set up your Online IRS Account and track your case

  • Navigate penalty relief and appeal processes

Resources You Should Bookmark

  • Tax Topic 202: Payment Options

  • Topic 653: IRS Notices, Penalties, and Interest

  • IRS Individual Online Account

  • Offer in Compromise Tool

Final Thought: Build, Don’t Burn Bridges with the IRS

Filing and paying taxes on time is part of building financial credibility in the U.S. economy. But even if you fall behind, the IRS provides structured recovery tools — and Ntare Consulting is here to walk with you step by step.

Need help setting up a payment plan or responding to a tax notice?
Contact Ntare Consulting & Financial today and take control of your tax journey.

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