You’ve probably seen them: late-night or daytime TV commercials promising to “settle your IRS tax debt for pennies on the dollar.” These ads often feature dramatic testimonials or urgent messages suggesting the IRS is handing out easy tax forgiveness—if you just call now.
But how much of this is real, and how much is misleading marketing? According to the team at Tax Resolution Services, it’s important to approach these offers with a healthy dose of skepticism—and a clear understanding of what’s actually possible under IRS settlement programs.
David’s Take: Beware of False Promises
David Yarborough, a former IRS Revenue Officer and co-owner of Tax Resolution Services, shares a perspective rooted in experience:
“Approximately 20% of tax settlement cases are actually approved by the IRS. That tells you a lot of the companies promising massive reductions simply aren’t able to deliver. They’re selling services to taxpayers who may not even qualify for relief.”
The reality is that not everyone is a good candidate for an Offer in Compromise, which is the program these commercials often reference. The IRS has strict eligibility requirements, and every case needs to be evaluated on an individual basis. At Tax Resolution Services, we never make promises without doing our due diligence—analyzing your income, expenses, assets, and tax liability before recommending a solution.
If a company offers you a guaranteed tax reduction during your first call, that’s a red flag.
Gerald’s Take: If It Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is
Gerald Yarborough, also a former IRS insider and co-owner of Tax Resolution Services, echoes this caution:
“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. A lot of these companies will take your money and never deliver what you hoped for. You need to do your research. Google them. Add words like ‘complaint,’ ‘scam,’ or ‘lawsuit’ after their name and see what comes up.”
Many taxpayers looking for help are in vulnerable financial positions, and these misleading advertisements prey on that desperation. They charge thousands of dollars upfront, only to go silent, delay filings, or outsource your case to someone unqualified.
Instead, look for firms with:
- A track record of success
- Transparent fees and service agreements
- Licensed professionals such as Enrolled Agents or former IRS employees
- A willingness to evaluate your eligibility before taking your money
What Real Tax Relief Looks Like
The IRS does offer legitimate relief programs, but they aren’t quick fixes or one-size-fits-all solutions. These include:
- Offer in Compromise (OIC) – A program that may allow you to settle for less than the full amount you owe, but only if you meet strict financial criteria
- Installment Agreements – Monthly payment plans for taxpayers who can’t pay in full immediately
- Currently Not Collectible Status – A temporary pause in collection activity for taxpayers experiencing serious financial hardship
- Penalty Abatement – Relief from penalties in cases of reasonable cause or first-time compliance
Each option has eligibility requirements, documentation needs, and IRS review processes. At Tax Resolution Services, we work with you to determine the most viable path forward and never push a strategy that won’t work just to make a sale.
Know Who You’re Hiring
When seeking help with a tax problem, your best defense is knowledge and credible support. Choose a team that has experience not just in tax law or accounting but also inside the IRS itself.
At Tax Resolution Services, we’ve built our reputation by being honest, strategic, and results-focused. You’ll never get false promises or high-pressure sales tactics—just straight talk from former IRS agents who know how the system works.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Think you’ve been misled by a tax relief company—or want to avoid becoming a victim in the first place? Reach out to Tax Resolution Services today. We offer free case evaluations and a candid assessment of your options—no gimmicks, no pressure.
Call us at 704-727-2709 or contact us online to get started.