Tax liability can easily tear down the life you’ve made for yourself. Fortunately, you can find help getting your back taxes under control by contacting a Michigan tax attorney with the W Tax Group.
If you’re facing tax problems with the IRS or the Michigan Department of Treasury, W Tax Group is here to help. Based in Michigan, our team is well-versed in both federal and state tax issues. We offer free consultations and have earned a strong reputation for effective, client-focused service. Whether you’re dealing with back taxes, wage garnishments, or unfiled returns, our experienced professionals will work with you to find a clear path forward.
Meet Our Michigan Tax Lawyers
Stephen Weisberg
Stephen is an experienced tax attorney known for his strategic approach to resolving complex tax cases. He has helped countless clients navigate serious IRS and state tax issues with confidence.
Lyle D. Warren
Lyle is a skilled negotiator with a strong background in both federal and Michigan tax matters. His practical insight and deep knowledge of tax law make him a trusted advocate for clients seeking relief.
What Can the IRS and Michigan Department of Treasury Do if You Don’t Pay Taxes?
If you fall behind on your tax obligations, both the IRS and the Michigan Department of Treasury have powerful tools to collect what they’re owed. Unlike private collectors, these agencies don’t need to sue you before taking action – they have a legal right to levy your wages or seize your assets as long as they send you the right notices.
If you live in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor, or anywhere else in Michigan, it’s important to know your rights. Here are the consequences of unpaid taxes.
Financial Penalties and Interest
Unpaid taxes can lead to mounting penalties and interest. Even if you don’t file a return, state and federal agencies can estimate your income based on other available data and assess what they believe you owe. That estimate is rarely in your favor, but once it’s assessed, they can backdate penalties and interest on the balance due.
Tax Collection Letters and Notices
The IRS and the Michigan Department of Treasury will send notices warning you about your outstanding balance. These letters can feel aggressive, but they shouldn’t be ignored. They mark the beginning of more serious enforcement efforts.
Wage Garnishment
Both the IRS and the state of Michigan have the authority to garnish your wages. This means a portion of every paycheck can be taken to cover your tax debt, which can quickly disrupt your ability to cover basic expenses.
Bank Account Levies
Tax agencies can also issue levies on your financial accounts. This includes checking, savings, and investment accounts. Once a levy is in place, funds may be frozen or withdrawn to satisfy your debt.
Property Liens
If you own a home, car, or other property, a tax lien can be filed against it. The IRS can file liens for personal or business federal taxes. Liens are also common in Michigan tax enforcement cases involving unpaid income tax, sales and use tax, or corporate income tax. A lien can prevent you from selling or refinancing your property until the debt is cleared.
Seizure of Assets
In more severe cases, the IRS or Michigan Department of Treasury may seize and sell your personal property. This could include real estate, vehicles, or other valuables. The proceeds are used to pay down your tax liability.
Jail Time for Serious Offenses
While rare, criminal prosecution is possible in cases of tax fraud or willful evasion. This typically involves situations where someone had the means to pay their taxes and actively chose not to comply.
How Your Michigan Tax Attorney Can Help You
Falling behind on your taxes isn’t something to take lightly. Both the IRS and the Michigan Department of Treasury have broad authority to collect unpaid taxes, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. With the help of an experienced Michigan tax attorney, you can take control of the situation and start working toward a solution.
Tax agencies may be aggressive, but they’re often willing to work with taxpayers who make a good-faith effort to resolve their debt. Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away. Taking action with the support of a knowledgeable tax lawyer in Michigan gives you the best chance at protecting your finances and your future.
W Tax Group can guide you through the available options and advocate on your behalf with both the IRS and state tax authorities. Here’s how:
Set Up an Installment Agreement
If you can’t pay your tax bill in full, your attorney can help you set up a monthly payment plan with either the IRS or the Michigan Department of Treasury. Many taxpayers in cities like Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Lansing find relief through structured payment plans that fit their budget.
Negotiate an Offer in Compromise
You may qualify to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount through an offer in compromise. Your Michigan tax lawyer will evaluate your eligibility, prepare the application, and work to negotiate a fair outcome.
Prove Financial Hardship or “Currently Not Collectible” Status
If you’re unemployed, facing medical issues, or dealing with another serious hardship, your attorney can help you request currently not collectible status. This temporarily halts collection actions until your financial situation improves.
Handle Communication with Tax Agencies
Dealing with IRS agents or Michigan tax collectors can be overwhelming. A tax attorney can speak on your behalf, reducing your stress and ensuring nothing is missed or misunderstood during negotiations.
Help You File Back Tax Returns
Unfiled returns are a common issue. Your tax lawyer in Michigan can help you gather the necessary documents, file correctly, and develop a plan for resolving any resulting liabilities.
Call a Michigan Tax Attorney
You’ve spent long enough worrying about your tax situation. If you owe taxes to the IRS, the Michigan Department of Treasury, or both, we’re here to help. From Michigan income tax to sales and use tax to corporate income tax issues, the W Tax Group has the experience to guide you toward a resolution that works.
Call us at 1-877-500-4930 or complete the form at the bottom of this page to schedule your complimentary consultation. We’ll review your case and connect you with the right team member to help you move forward.