Tax Relief

What Steps to Take After Receiving an IRS Collection Notice of Unpaid Taxes — And How Mike Habib, EA Can Help

August 29, 2025 | Mike Habib, EA

Have you just opened your mailbox to discover a dreaded letter from the IRS demanding payment for unpaid taxes? You’re not alone, and you’re not without hope. This comprehensive, answer-engine-optimized FAQ guide will walk you through the smartest moves you can make from the moment you receive an IRS Collection Notice. It also explains how the specialized tax representation firm of Mike Habib, EA, can be your best ally in resolving tax debts and restoring peace of mind.

What is an IRS Collection Notice and Why Did I Receive One?

An IRS Collection Notice is a formal letter from the Internal Revenue Service stating that you have unpaid federal taxes and demanding payment. If you haven’t paid your full balance of taxes after a return was processed, failed to pay installments on a payment agreement, or were audited and didn’t pay the assessed tax, the IRS will send formal notices seeking payment.

You might receive a notice if:

You underpaid on your tax return or missed payments.
Your account hasn’t been settled following an audit.
The IRS counts penalties and interest against your debt.

What Types of IRS Collection Notices Are There?

Here are the most common types of notices and what they mean for you:

Notice Type	Letter Number	What It Means
Friendly Reminder	CP14	First notice about unpaid tax
Urgent Bill	CP501, CP503, CP504	Escalating reminders, increasing urgency
Intent to Levy	LT11, CP504	IRS is planning to seize assets
Final Notice	L-1058, LT16	Immediate action required to avoid collection actions

Each subsequent notice is more serious than the last. Ignoring any of these letters will not make your tax debt disappear—in fact, it will likely make matters worse.

Liens vs. Levies: Understanding the Key Differences and Their Impact on Taxpayers

July 11, 2025 | Mike Habib, EA

When dealing with tax debts, two terms often come up in discussions with the IRS or state tax authorities: liens and levies. While both are tools used by the government to ensure the collection of unpaid taxes, they serve very different purposes and have distinct implications for taxpayers. Understanding these differences is crucial for managing tax obligations effectively and avoiding unnecessary financial hardship.

This article will explore the nuances of liens and levies, their impact on taxpayers, and strategies to address or appeal them. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of why avoiding levies is critical and how liens, while serious, can be managed with proper planning.

Frequently Asked Questions: Resolving IRS and State Tax Problems with Mike Habib EA

February 7, 2025 | Mike Habib, EA

Tax problems can feel overwhelming, whether you’re dealing with the IRS, the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB), or another state tax agency such as EDD or CDTFA. From audits and back taxes to penalties and liens, the stakes are high, and the process can be incredibly complex. That’s where Mike Habib EA comes in. As a Los Angeles-based tax representation firm, Mike Habib EA specializes in resolving IRS and state tax problems, helping clients regain control of their financial lives. In this FAQ-style article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about tax problems and how Mike Habib EA can help you find solutions.

Options for Taxpayers Who Owe Money to the IRS: Payment Plans, Offers in Compromise, and Other Relief Options

August 23, 2024 | Mike Habib, EA

Owing money to the IRS can be a daunting experience, but it’s important to know that you have options. The IRS offers several programs to help taxpayers manage their tax debt, including payment plans, offers in compromise, and other relief options. In this article, we will explore these options in detail and discuss how our representation tax firm can assist you in navigating these complex processes.

Understanding Your Tax Debt
Before diving into the available relief options, it’s crucial to understand the nature of your tax debt. Tax debt can arise from various sources, including underpayment of taxes, failure to file tax returns, or errors on previously filed returns. The IRS is authorized to collect unpaid taxes, and they have several tools at their disposal, including wage garnishments, bank levies, and property liens.

Get tax help today by calling us at 1-877-788-2937.

Tax Problem Resolution in the Inland Empire, CA

April 22, 2024 | Mike Habib, EA

IRS – FTB – EDD – CDTFA Tax Help

Navigating tax issues can be daunting, especially when facing audits, unpaid taxes, or payroll problems. In Corona, CA, part of the Inland Empire, taxpayers and businesses often seek clarity on resolving these issues effectively. This FAQ guide provides insights into common tax problems and solutions available in Corona, CA.

1. What is Audit Representation and How Can It Help Me in Corona, CA?
Audit Representation, also known as Tax Audit Defense, is a service where a tax professional represents you before the IRS or state tax authorities (FTB, EDD, CDTFA) during an audit. In Corona, CA, having an expert who understands local and federal tax laws can be crucial.

Benefits:
Expert Guidance: Professionals handle all communication with the tax authorities, reducing the stress of direct dealings.
Better Outcomes: Experienced representatives can negotiate more effectively and understand what the auditors are looking for.
Compliance Assurance: Ensures that your rights are protected and that the audit process adheres to the law

Tax Debt Relief: What You Need to Know When You Owe the IRS

April 12, 2024 | Mike Habib, EA

Tax debt can be a significant burden, causing stress and financial strain for many individuals. However, there are several avenues for tax relief available to those who owe the IRS. This comprehensive guide will explore the options for obtaining tax relief, aiming to provide clarity and hope to those grappling with tax debt concerns.

Get professional representation today! Call us at 1-877-788-2937.

Navigating Tax Relief Services in Whittier, California: A Lifeline for Taxpayers

March 15, 2024 | Mike Habib, EA

In the bustling city of Whittier, California, individuals and businesses alike face the daunting task of navigating the complex world of taxes. From unfiled tax returns to unpaid back taxes, and from employment 941 payroll issues to the intimidating process of IRS, FTB, EDD, and CDTFA audits, the challenges can seem insurmountable. However, tax relief services offer a beacon of hope, providing expert guidance and support to those in immediate need.

Get representation today by calling 562-204-6700.

Tax levies, liens representation – getting professional tax relief help

February 9, 2024 | Mike Habib, EA

When the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) imposes a wage or bank levy, it can create a significant financial strain on individuals and businesses alike. A levy is a legal seizure of property to satisfy a tax debt, and when it comes to wages or bank accounts, the impact is direct and immediate. However, there are avenues for obtaining relief from these levies, and understanding these options is crucial for those affected.

Get professional representation help today 1-877-78-TAXES [1-877-788-297].

Understanding IRS Levies

Tax problem resolution – get tax-iety relief today

February 1, 2023 | Mike Habib, EA

Tax anxiety, TAX-IETY, comes in different forms of tax problems such as:

What is an IRS audit tax-iety?

An IRS audit is a review or examination of an individual’s or organization’s tax return to ensure that the information is accurate and that the tax return is being filed in compliance with the tax laws. If the IRS finds errors or discrepancies in the tax return during the audit process, it may result in an adjustment to the tax liability and possibly additional taxes owed, penalties and interest. The IRS may conduct audits through various methods, including correspondence audits, in which the taxpayer is asked to provide additional documentation by mail, or field audits, in which an IRS agent visits the taxpayer’s place of business or home to review the tax return and related records in person. If you are selected for an IRS audit, it is important to cooperate with the process and provide the necessary documentation to support the information reported on your tax return.

Our Whittier, Los Angeles, CA tax representation firm represents audited taxpayers before the IRS & Appeals, contact us today at 1-877-78-TAXES [1-877-788-2937].

Los Angeles Tax Services – Local tax firm serving all Southern California

October 3, 2022 | Mike Habib, EA

If you own a property, a business, or are employed, you’ll likely have to pay taxes. According to the 16th Amendment in our Constitution, individuals are required to pay taxes from income sources. Taxes can be broken down into three categories: what you purchase, what you own, and what you earn. Some may wonder why we have to pay them and for what purpose. They contribute to resources such as our government, educational systems, law enforcement, libraries, and others. However, individuals who fail to pay taxes can suffer penalties and potential criminal charges.

There is a substantial amount of time you have to file your taxes, but the process can seem hefty. With the help of Los Angeles tax services firms, you can receive information on your tax return, the amount you owe, and various resources for tax preparation service. Furthermore, there are different kinds of tax advisors that serve a purpose to fit your needs. Our Los Angeles tax services can become an essential part of the taxing process.

Call us today at 1-877-788-2937.