Offer in Compromise

An Offer in Compromise is the closest thing to the "pennies on the dollar" settlement you have heard about — but only when it is done correctly and you genuinely qualify.

An Offer in Compromise (OIC) is a formal agreement that settles your tax debt for less than the full amount you owe. It is a real IRS program — but it is also the most misrepresented one in the industry. The IRS accepts offers only when the amount offered reflects your reasonable collection potential: roughly what the IRS believes it could realistically collect from your income and assets before the collection statute expires.

Do you qualify for an Offer in Compromise?

The IRS considers an OIC under three grounds, the most common being doubt as to collectibility — you simply cannot pay the full amount. Eligibility hinges on a detailed analysis of your:

  • Monthly income versus allowable living expenses,
  • Equity in assets (home, vehicles, retirement, savings),
  • Future earning capacity, and
  • Full compliance — all returns filed and current on estimated payments.

Free eligibility check

Submitting an OIC you do not qualify for wastes the application fee and months of time. We run the same calculation the IRS uses before recommending an offer, so you know your real odds first. The IRS also publishes a free Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier.

How we build offers the IRS accepts

A successful OIC is part calculation, part documentation, and part negotiation. We make sure your allowable expenses are fully claimed under IRS standards, that your offer amount is supportable, and that the package is complete — incomplete offers are returned without consideration. If an OIC is not your best path, we will tell you honestly and recommend an installment agreement or other option instead.

Find out if you qualify to settle — for free.

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Frequently Asked Questions

It can be, for taxpayers who genuinely cannot pay. But it is not automatic and not for everyone. Be wary of any company that promises a specific settlement before reviewing your finances — the offer amount is driven by an IRS formula, not marketing.
Most offers take roughly 6 to 12 months for the IRS to investigate and decide. While the offer is pending, most enforced collection is paused, which is itself a benefit.
You have the right to appeal, and we often resolve cases at the appeal stage. If an OIC ultimately is not viable, we pivot to another resolution so you are never left without a plan.

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