State Tax Relief
While some tax firms refuse to engage with state tax authorities, I gladly take on the challenge. I've worked with state agencies across the country and I regularly win for my clients.
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State Tax Agencies Play by Different Rules
Most people think the IRS is the scariest tax authority out there. In many cases, state agencies are worse. They have smaller caseloads, which means more attention on your account. They can do everything the IRS can do, and then some.
What States Can Do That the IRS Can't
- Suspend your driver's license
- Revoke professional licenses (medical, real estate, nursing, etc.)
- Deny license applications and renewals
- Collect for 20+ years (IRS only gets 10)
- Track and collect across state lines
What I Bring to the Table
- 15+ years working with state agencies nationwide
- Direct experience with CA FTB, NY DTF, and others
- Hundreds of state cases resolved
- I handle IRS and state together when needed
- License reinstatement and appeals
State Tax Issues I Handle
Every state has its own rules. I know how to navigate each one.
Offer in Compromise
Many states have settlement programs similar to the IRS. California's FTB program is nearly identical to the federal version. Not every state offers one, but I'll find out what's available in yours.
Payment Plans
I'll negotiate an affordable monthly payment with your state agency. Most states are willing to work with you once a competent representative is involved.
Wage Garnishment Release
States can garnish your wages just like the IRS, and sometimes more aggressively. I can get it stopped or reduced so you can keep paying your bills.
Bank Levy Release
State agencies can freeze your bank accounts and take your money. Not all states release levies the same way the IRS does, but there are almost always options. Call me ASAP if this has happened to you.
Penalty Abatement
States love adding penalties and fees, often worse than the IRS. I can get excessive penalties reduced or removed from your account.
Tax Liens
A state tax lien can wreck your credit and make it impossible to buy or sell property. I can get it released, withdrawn, or subordinated.
Hardship Status
If you can't afford payments and don't qualify for a settlement, hardship status can pause collections. Not every state has a formal program, but I know what's available.
Unfiled State Returns
Behind on state filings? I'll get you caught up and compliant. This is often the first step before we can resolve the underlying debt.
Appeals & License Issues
State suspended your license? Denied a renewal? I've helped hundreds of taxpayers get licenses reinstated through proper appeals. Contact me if your license is in jeopardy.
Questions About State Tax Debt
I owe the IRS and my state. Do I need to resolve both?
Usually, yes. Most of my clients owe both federal and state taxes. The good news is I handle both simultaneously. In many cases, getting the IRS resolved first actually strengthens your position with the state.
I'll coordinate the strategy so you're not getting pulled in two directions. One person, one plan, both debts addressed.
Are state tax agencies easier or harder to deal with than the IRS?
It completely depends on your state. Most state revenue officers are easier to work with than the feds. They're less aggressive and more willing to help. But agents in California, New York, and some southern states can be equally or more aggressive than the IRS.
State agents are also notoriously difficult to reach. Staff changes frequently and their systems aren't as organized as the IRS. Having a power of attorney who knows how to navigate the system makes a real difference.
I moved to a different state. Can they still come after me?
Yes. State tax authorities track debtors across state lines. Moving doesn't make the debt go away. I've had clients contacted by agencies from states they left years ago. If anything, it makes things messier because notices may be going to an old address. If you think you might owe a state you no longer live in, contact me and I'll sort it out.
Do state tax debts ever expire?
The IRS has 10 years to collect. States are a different story. California and New York, for example, have 20 years. Some states have no expiration at all. There's no real rhyme or reason other than states can do what they want.
If you think your state debt might be close to expiring, call me. I can pull your records and figure out exactly where things stand.
Can states settle tax debt like the IRS does with Offers in Compromise?
Some can, some can't. California's Franchise Tax Board has a settlement program very similar to the federal version. New York's Department of Taxation is different. They'll only allow penalty removal, not a full compromise of the debt. Each state has its own rules.
I've settled hundreds of state offers over the years. If your state has a program, I'll know about it. And if they don't, I'll find the next best option.
IRS Tax Relief Services
Most of my state clients also owe the IRS. I handle both simultaneously. Here are my federal tax relief services:
Offer in Compromise
Settle your IRS debt for less than you owe. An accepted federal Offer often strengthens your case with state agencies.
IRS Payment Plans
Set up affordable monthly payments with the IRS while I coordinate a separate agreement with your state.
Wage Garnishment Release
If both the IRS and your state are garnishing your wages, I can coordinate releases for both to protect your paycheck.
Don't Let State Tax Problems Linger
States can be relentless. The longer you wait, the more penalties pile up and the more tools they bring out. Call me and let's get it handled.