Fresh Start Division publishes independent, plain-language guides to every major IRS issue a taxpayer might face. Each guide explains the underlying law, IRS procedures, and realistic next steps — with citations to primary sources where possible.
Our editorial team focuses on accuracy over persuasion. We do not sell tax services. We do receive referral fees when taxpayers choose to be connected with vetted partner firms from our network, but that does not influence our editorial positions.
Complete resource index
Back Taxes
What to do when you owe the IRS for prior years.
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Unfiled Tax Returns
Getting caught up on missing returns without making things worse.
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Federal Tax Liens
How IRS liens work and how to remove them.
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Tax Levies
When the IRS seizes property or accounts.
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Wage Garnishment
How to stop the IRS from taking your paycheck.
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Innocent Spouse Relief
Relief from tax debt caused by a spouse or former spouse.
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The Tax Gap
Understanding the gap between taxes owed and taxes actually paid.
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Taxpayer Bill of Rights
The ten fundamental rights every taxpayer has.
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The IRS Fresh Start Program
For taxpayers who owe the IRS and cannot pay in full, the IRS Fresh Start Program provides a framework of relief options: Offer in Compromise, installment agreements, Currently Not Collectible status, and penalty abatement. Start with the Fresh Start overview to understand which option applies to your situation.
IRS notices decoded
If you received a notice from the IRS, start with our IRS notices index, which covers the 20 most common notices in plain language — CP14, CP504, Letter 1058, Letter 3172, and more.