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Tax Relief in Westport, CT 

If you owe back taxes or are dealing with IRS penalties, you’re not alone. Many people in Westport, CT, struggle with tax debt, unfiled returns, or aggressive IRS collections. The good news is that tax relief services can help you navigate these challenges and find a solution that works for you.

What is Tax Relief?

Tax relief refers to programs and strategies designed to help taxpayers reduce or manage their tax debt. The IRS offers several options for people who are unable to pay their full tax bill, including installment agreements, penalty abatement, and settlement programs like an Offer in Compromise. The right solution depends on your financial situation and the details of your tax issue.

How Tax Relief Services Can Help

A tax relief professional can help you:

• Negotiate with the IRS to reduce penalties and interest
• Set up affordable payment plans
• Settle tax debt for less than what you owe (if you qualify)
• Stop wage garnishments and bank levies
• Protect your assets from IRS collections
• File past-due tax returns and get back into compliance

Expert Tax Relief in Westport, CT

Working with a knowledgeable tax professional can make all the difference in resolving your tax issues. With years of experience, Rappaport Tax Relief provides personalized tax solutions to help clients regain financial stability. Whether you need help stopping an IRS levy or negotiating a tax settlement, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Call (917) 488-8295 today for a free consultation and take the first step toward resolving your tax problems.

by David Rappaport

IRS LT11 Notice – What It Means and How to Protect Yourself

Receiving an LT11 notice from the IRS is a serious matter. This letter warns that the IRS is preparing to take collection actions against you, such as levying your bank account or garnishing your wages. Understanding the implications of the LT11 and responding appropriately is essential to safeguarding your assets and financial well-being.

What Is the LT11 Notice?

The LT11 is a Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing. It signifies that the IRS plans to seize your income or property to satisfy an unpaid tax debt. This notice is one of the last warnings before the IRS enforces aggressive collection actions.

Why Did You Receive an LT11 Notice?

You likely received this notice because:

• You have an unpaid tax debt that remains unresolved.
• The IRS has previously contacted you about the balance, but no arrangements have been made.
• The IRS intends to levy your wages, bank accounts, Social Security benefits, or other assets.

What Should You Do Next?

1. Act Quickly – You have 30 days from the date of the notice to respond before the IRS moves forward with a levy.
2. Request a Collection Due Process (CDP) Hearing – This hearing allows you to dispute the levy or propose alternative resolutions, such as an installment agreement or an offer in compromise.
3. Pay the Debt (If Possible) – Paying off the balance will prevent further enforcement actions and additional penalties.
4. Negotiate a Payment Plan – If full payment isn’t feasible, you may qualify for a structured payment plan to prevent further collection efforts.
5. Get Professional Assistance – Tax professionals can negotiate with the IRS on your behalf, help you avoid levies, and explore hardship status or debt reduction programs.

Consequences of Ignoring an LT11 Notice

If you fail to respond within the 30-day window, the IRS may proceed with asset seizures, which could result in:

• Wage garnishment
• Bank account levies
• Seizure of personal or business assets
• A negative impact on your credit score

How Rappaport Tax Relief Can Help

At Rappaport Tax Relief, we specialize in stopping IRS levies and negotiating favorable resolutions for taxpayers. If you’ve received an LT11 notice, don’t wait until it’s too late. Call us today at (917) 488-8295, and let’s work together to protect your income and assets from aggressive IRS actions.

by David Rappaport

Tackling IRS Penalties in Connecticut: How Penalty Abatement Can Help You

Receiving a penalty notice from the IRS is never easy, but you don’t have to face these challenges alone. For taxpayers in Connecticut, understanding penalty abatement could be the first step toward financial relief. David Rappaport, a tax resolution expert at Rappaport Tax Relief, explains what you need to know about IRS penalties and how you can apply for penalty abatement to reduce or eliminate them.

Common IRS Penalties That Connecticut Taxpayers Face

IRS penalties are typically assessed for:

• Late filing: Failing to file your tax return by the due date.
• Late payment: Not paying the amount you owe by the deadline.
• Underpayment of estimated tax: Failing to pay enough taxes throughout the year.

Each of these penalties can add up, increasing your overall debt and making it more difficult to resolve your tax situation.

Penalty Abatement: A Lifeline for Connecticut Taxpayers

Penalty abatement is a form of relief that allows taxpayers to have penalties reduced or eliminated. While the IRS is strict about tax rules, they also understand that unforeseen circumstances can cause people to miss deadlines or payments. Penalty abatement is designed to offer relief in such cases.

Key Qualifying Reasons for Penalty Abatement

1. First-Time Penalty Abatement
   • You may qualify if you haven’t been penalized for the past three tax years, are current with all filing requirements, and have paid any taxes due (or arranged a payment plan).
2. Reasonable Cause
   • If you can demonstrate that you missed deadlines or payments due to events beyond your control—such as a natural disaster, serious illness, or the loss of vital records—you may qualify for penalty abatement based on reasonable cause.
3. Administrative Error
   • If the IRS made an error that resulted in your penalties, you could apply for abatement to have these penalties removed.

How to Apply for Penalty Abatement

1. Evaluate Your Eligibility: Look at the type of penalty you’ve been assessed and determine whether you qualify for abatement. This could be based on first-time relief, reasonable cause, or IRS error.
2. Prepare Your Documentation: Gather all supporting evidence, such as medical records, financial statements, or proof of natural disasters, to demonstrate your case.
3. Submit Your Request: You can apply for penalty abatement by calling the IRS, submitting IRS Form 843 (Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement), or working with a tax professional to ensure the best outcome.

Why You Should Seek Professional Help

Navigating IRS procedures can be complicated, especially when dealing with penalties. A tax resolution expert like David Rappaport can guide you through the process and help you prepare a solid case for penalty abatement. From evaluating your situation to negotiating with the IRS on your behalf, having an experienced professional in your corner can increase your chances of success.

Act Now to Avoid Further Penalties

The IRS continues to accrue interest on unpaid penalties, which can significantly increase your tax debt. Taking prompt action to apply for penalty abatement could stop these penalties from growing and help you regain financial stability.

If you’re a Connecticut taxpayer dealing with IRS penalties, don’t wait to seek help. Contact David Rappaport at Rappaport Tax Relief today to explore your options for penalty abatement and get the expert assistance you need to resolve your tax situation.

by David Rappaport

Why Ignoring IRS Notices in Connecticut is a Bad Idea 

Receiving an IRS notice can be a stressful experience, but ignoring it is never the solution. At Rappaport Tax Relief, we understand the challenges that Connecticut residents face when dealing with tax issues. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why you should never ignore IRS notices and how we can help you navigate the process.

What Are IRS Notices?

IRS notices are official communications sent to taxpayers for various reasons, including:

• Informing you of changes to your tax return.
• Requesting additional information.
• Notifying you of unpaid taxes or penalties.

Ignoring these notices can lead to serious consequences.

The Risks of Ignoring IRS Notices

1. Increased Tax Liability: If you ignore a notice that indicates you owe additional taxes, the IRS may assess those taxes, along with penalties and interest.
2. Final Assessment: Many IRS notices come with a deadline for response. If you don’t respond within the specified time, the IRS will finalize their assessment, leaving you with little recourse.
3. Collection Actions: The IRS has the authority to initiate collection actions, including wage garnishments, bank levies, and property liens.
4. Damage to Credit: Unresolved tax issues can lead to liens against your property, negatively affecting your credit score.

How Rappaport Tax Relief Can Help

At Rappaport Tax Relief, we specialize in helping Connecticut taxpayers understand and respond to IRS notices. Here’s how we can assist:

• Personalized Review: We’ll conduct a thorough review of your notice to identify the best course of action.
• Expert Representation: Our team will communicate with the IRS on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected.
• Timely Response: We’ll help you formulate a response strategy to meet IRS deadlines and avoid escalation.

Take Action Now

If you’ve received an IRS notice, don’t ignore it! Contact David Rappaport at Rappaport Tax Relief at (917) 488-8295 for a free consultation. Let us help you take control of your tax situation.

by David Rappaport

Understanding the CP3219A Notice: What You Need to Know in Connecticut

If you’ve received a CP3219A notice from the IRS, you’re likely feeling a mix of confusion and anxiety. At Rappaport Tax Relief in Connecticut, we understand that dealing with tax notices can be overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll explain what a CP3219A notice is, why you received it, and the steps you should take to address it.

What is a CP3219A Notice?

The CP3219A notice, also known as a Notice of Deficiency, is sent by the IRS when they believe you owe additional taxes. This notice is issued when discrepancies are found in your tax return. Common reasons for receiving this notice include:

• Unreported income.
• Incorrect deductions.
• Issues with tax credits.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore This Notice

Ignoring a CP3219A notice can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Increased Tax Liability: If you don’t respond, the IRS will proceed with the proposed changes, and your tax liability may increase.
• Penalties and Interest: Additional penalties and interest will accrue on any unpaid amounts, making your financial situation worse.
• Enforcement Actions: The IRS may initiate enforcement actions, such as wage garnishments or bank levies, if you fail to respond.

How Rappaport Tax Relief Can Assist You

At Rappaport Tax Relief, David Rappaport and his team are committed to helping Connecticut residents navigate the complexities of tax notices. Here’s how we can help:

• Review Your Notice: We’ll carefully analyze your CP3219A notice and determine the best course of action.
• Communicate with the IRS: Our team will handle all communication with the IRS, ensuring your rights are protected.
• Develop a Response Strategy: We’ll work with you to formulate a response to the IRS, whether you agree with their findings or want to challenge them.

Get Started Today

If you’ve received a CP3219A notice, don’t delay—contact David Rappaport at Rappaport Tax Relief today at (917) 488-8295 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate this process and find peace of mind.

by David Rappaport

Understanding IRS Levies: What You Need to Know

If you’re dealing with unpaid taxes, you may have heard the term “levy” tossed around. But what does it mean, and how can it affect you? Let's take a look at what an IRS levy is, how it works, and what steps you can take to protect yourself.

What Is an IRS Levy?

An IRS levy is a legal way for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to collect the money you owe in unpaid taxes. Unlike a lien, which is a claim against your property to secure payment of a tax debt, a levy allows the IRS to seize your assets to satisfy your tax liability. This can include:

• Wage Garnishment: The IRS can take a portion of your paycheck directly from your employer until your tax debt is paid off.
• Bank Account Seizure: The IRS can freeze your bank accounts and take money directly from them.
• Property Seizure: In extreme cases, the IRS can seize other assets, such as your car or home.

How Does a Levy Happen?

Before the IRS can levy your assets, they must follow certain steps:

1. Tax Assessment: The IRS will assess your tax debt and send you a bill outlining how much you owe.
2. Multiple Notices: If you don’t pay the debt, the IRS will send several notices over time, including a Final Notice of Intent to Levy.
3. 30-Day Response Period: After the final notice, you typically have 30 days to respond before the IRS can proceed with the levy.

Why You Should Take IRS Notices Seriously

Ignoring IRS notices won’t make your tax debt disappear. In fact, it will likely make the situation worse. If you receive a notice, it’s essential to take action.

What You Can Do If You Face a Levy

If you find yourself facing an IRS levy, don’t panic! You have several options to address the situation:

1. Request a Collection Due Process (CDP) Hearing: You have the right to appeal the levy and request a hearing. This can provide a temporary stop to the levy while you work to resolve your tax issues.
2. Set Up a Payment Plan: The IRS offers payment plans that allow you to pay off your tax debt over time. This can prevent the levy from happening if approved.
3. Apply for an Offer in Compromise: If you can’t pay the full amount, you may be eligible to settle your tax debt for less than what you owe. This is known as an Offer in Compromise.
4. Prove Financial Hardship: If paying your tax debt would cause severe financial difficulty, you can request to be classified as Currently Not Collectible. This status halts collection efforts, including levies, but doesn’t erase your tax debt.

How David Rappaport Can Help

Navigating the complexities of IRS levies can be challenging. That’s where David Rappaport comes in. As a tax resolution professional, he helps individuals and businesses address tax issues and negotiate with the IRS. Here’s how he can assist you:

• Evaluate Your Situation: David will review your tax situation to determine the best course of action.
• Negotiate on Your Behalf: He'll work directly with the IRS to negotiate terms that work for you, whether it’s a payment plan or an Offer in Compromise.
• Protect Your Assets: His goal is to help you keep your hard-earned assets while resolving your tax issues.

Final Thoughts

Facing an IRS levy can be stressful, but it’s essential to remember that you have options. Don’t ignore the IRS or assume that the problem will go away. The sooner you take action, the better chance you have of resolving your tax issues without losing your assets.

If you’re facing a levy or have received an IRS notice, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can work on a solution that helps you regain control of your financial future. Contact David Rappaport today.

by David Rappaport

Tax Relief for House Flippers

House flipping—buying homes at a low price, fixing them up, and selling them quickly for a profit—can be a great way to make money. But it can also lead to big problems with the IRS if you're not careful. Many house flippers get into trouble because they don’t fully understand the tax rules. If you’re in this situation, it's important to know where things can go wrong and how to fix them.

Common Problems for House Flippers:

1. Misclassifying Income: One of the most common mistakes is treating income from flipping houses as capital gains rather than ordinary income. The IRS often sees it as ordinary income, which is taxed at a higher rate. Mislabeling it can lead to penalties and back taxes.

2. Not Reporting All Income: With so many transactions happening quickly, it’s easy to forget to report some income. But the IRS is strict about this, and missing even a little bit can trigger an audit.

3. Claiming the Wrong Deductions: Many house flippers try to deduct all their expenses, but not everything is deductible the same way. Claiming the wrong deductions can draw IRS attention.

4. Underestimating Quarterly Taxes: Flipping houses means you’re making money throughout the year, so you need to pay taxes quarterly. Many flippers underestimate how much they owe, which can lead to a big tax bill at the end of the year and penalties for underpayment.

How to Fix IRS Problems:

If you’re already facing IRS issues, or you think you’ve made mistakes, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s what you can do:

• Talk to a Tax Professional: A tax expert like David Rappaport can help you navigate the complex tax rules related to flipping properties. With over 36 years of experience, David can help you correct mistakes and reduce penalties.

• Amend Your Tax Returns: If you’ve made errors on past tax returns, you may need to file an amended return. A tax professional can guide you through this process.

• Explore Your Options: Depending on your situation, you might qualify for IRS programs like an Offer in Compromise or an installment agreement to help settle your tax debt.

• Plan for the Future: To avoid future problems, work with a tax expert to make sure you’re reporting income correctly, claiming the right deductions, and paying your quarterly taxes on time.

If you’re a house flipper dealing with IRS issues or want to prevent future problems, contact David Rappaport at Rappaport Tax Relief.

With hundreds of clients helped and nearly four decades of experience, David can guide you through the process and help you get back on track.

Call David at 917-488-8295 NOW for a free consultation, and secure a brighter financial future.

by David Rappaport

Help! The IRS Sent Me a CP1058 Letter. What Do I Do Now?

Receiving a letter from the IRS is never a pleasant experience, especially when it's a CP1058.

But don't panic! Understanding what this letter means and how to respond can make a big difference in how you handle the situation.

What Is a CP1058 Letter?

A CP1058 letter is a final notice from the IRS indicating their intent to levy, which means they plan to seize your property or assets to satisfy your unpaid taxes.

This could include your wages, bank accounts, or other financial assets. It's essentially the IRS saying, "We need you to pay your tax debt, and if you don't, we will take action."

What Happens in 30 Days?

When you receive a CP1058 letter, you have 30 days to respond before the IRS moves forward with their levy. During this time, you have the opportunity to resolve the issue by paying the owed amount, setting up a payment plan, or disputing the amount if you believe it's incorrect. If you don’t act, the IRS intends to take action. 

What Can You Do?

1. Pay the Amount Owed: The quickest way to resolve the issue is to pay the amount owed in full. This stops the levy process and clears your tax debt.

2. Set Up a Payment Plan: If you can't pay the full amount, you can set up a payment plan with the IRS. This allows you to pay off your debt over time, usually in monthly installments.

3. Dispute the Amount: If you believe the IRS has made a mistake, you can dispute the amount owed. This involves providing evidence to support your claim that the tax debt is incorrect.

4. Request a Collection Due Process Hearing: If you need more time to resolve the issue or wish to dispute the levy, you can request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing. This hearing gives you the chance to discuss your situation with an independent IRS Office of Appeals.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional

Dealing with the IRS can be complex and intimidating. Having a professional on your side can make the process much smoother and increase your chances of a favorable outcome. A tax resolution expert knows the ins and outs of the system and can provide the guidance and support you need.

Why David Rappaport Is the Professional You Need

When it comes to handling IRS issues, David Rappaport is the expert you want in your corner. With over 30 years of experience as an Enrolled Agent, David specializes in representing clients before all administrative branches of the IRS and State Taxing Authorities. His hands-on approach and commitment to Concierge Accounting mean he goes the extra mile to ensure his clients' complete satisfaction.

David believes in establishing personal relationships with each of his clients, ensuring they receive the highest level of service tailored to their specific needs. Whether you're facing a CP1058 letter or any other tax issue, David Rappaport has the expertise and dedication to help you navigate the complexities of the IRS.

Call David Rappaport Now

Don't wait until it's too late. If you've received a CP1058 letter or are dealing with any other tax issues, call David Rappaport now. Let his experience and commitment to exceptional service guide you to a resolution and peace of mind.

If you’ve received a CP1058 notice, you’re running out of time.

Call David NOW at (917) 488-8295.

by David Rappaport

CP71a Letter in Connecticut

Receiving a CP71a letter from the IRS is more than just a reminder—it's a warning that your tax debt is growing. 

The CP71a letter is sent annually to remind you that you still owe taxes, and with each passing day, interest and penalties continue to pile up. If you've received this letter, you need to act fast. Here’s what it means and why you can’t afford to wait.

What the CP71a Letter Means

The CP71a letter is a yearly notice alerting you to an unpaid tax balance. It shows the total amount you owe, including all accumulated interest and penalties since the debt was first assessed. 

While this letter doesn’t mean the IRS will take immediate action like garnishing your wages or levying your bank account, it’s a clear signal that they could do so if you don’t take action. Your tax debt is not going to disappear on its own.

Why You Can’t Afford to Ignore the CP71a Letter

Ignoring the CP71a letter is a mistake that can lead to serious, irreversible consequences. If you continue to ignore your tax debt, the IRS won’t hesitate to escalate their efforts to collect what you owe. This could mean wage garnishment, bank account seizures, or even a lien on your property. The longer you wait to deal with your tax debt, the more difficult and costly it will become to fix.

What to Do If You Get a CP71a Letter

If you receive a CP71a letter, don’t ignore it—act now. Here’s what you should do:

1. Read the Letter Carefully: Understand the full amount you owe, including how much of it is due to interest and penalties.
2. Consider Payment Options: The IRS expects you to pay what you owe, but if you can’t pay the full amount, there are other options. You might qualify for an installment agreement, allowing you to pay off your debt in smaller, manageable payments over time.
3. Consult a Tax Resolution Expert: If you owe $20,000 or more or have unfiled tax returns, getting professional help is crucial. David Rappaport, with 36 years of experience in tax resolution, can help you understand your options and negotiate with the IRS on your behalf.

Act Now Before It’s Too Late

The CP71a letter is a clear warning to address your tax debt immediately, before things get worse. 

By taking action now, you can avoid the severe consequences that come with ignoring the IRS. 

If you need help with your tax debt, contact David Rappaport at Rappaport Tax Relief today. With a proven history of helping clients resolve their tax issues, David is ready to provide the expert guidance and support you need to get back on track.

Call David at 917-488-8295 for a free consultation today.

by David Rappaport