Nobody wants to deal with IRS penalties—they add unnecessary stress and financial strain. But here’s the good news: the IRS actually offers ways to reduce or even eliminate these penalties through IRS penalty abatement. If you’ve been hit with late filing fees, late payment charges, or other penalties, don’t panic. There are solutions available, and this guide will walk you through them in plain English.
What Is IRS Penalty Abatement?
Think of IRS penalty abatement as a second chance. The IRS understands that life happens—sometimes, unexpected events prevent you from filing or paying on time. If you can show that your situation was out of your control, they may remove your penalties. Common reasons for approval include:
A serious illness or hospitalization (yours or a close family member’s)
Natural disasters (like wildfires or hurricanes)
The death of an immediate family member
Receiving incorrect advice from the IRS itself
Which Penalties Can Be Removed?
The IRS imposes different penalties, but the most common ones that qualify for relief are:
✅ Failure-to-File Penalty – If you missed the tax deadline (even by one day), this penalty kicks in.
✅ Failure-to-Pay Penalty – If you owed taxes but couldn’t pay on time, this fee adds up fast.
✅ Accuracy-Related Penalty – If the IRS finds mistakes in your return, they may charge extra—but you can dispute it.
How to Request Penalty Relief (Step by Step)
First-Time Penalty Abatement (FTA) – If you’ve had a clean record for the past three years, the IRS may remove penalties as a one-time courtesy. Just ask!
Reasonable Cause Request – Write a letter (or use Form 843) explaining your situation and provide proof (like medical records or disaster declarations).
Set Up a Payment Plan – If you can’t pay all at once, an installment agreement can stop new penalties from piling up.
Need Help? You’re Not Alone
Dealing with the IRS can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Sullivan for IRS Matters, we specialize in helping people just like you resolve tax problems—including IRS penalty abatement.
Take Action Today
The sooner you address the issue, the better. Penalties and interest keep growing over time, but relief is possible. Let’s get those penalties removed so you can move forward with peace of mind.
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