If tax debt involves business activity or changing income, discuss the account and payment problem together. Get help understanding notices, overdue return questions, and payment or relief options that deserve review.
Identify what is known
If you are unsure whether a return was filed, explain what records you have rather than assuming that a prepared copy proves submission. Past-due filing questions and a balance already shown by the IRS may require different follow-up.
Discuss the information needed
Ask which tax years require attention and what income or other records would be useful. Filing a past-due return can be important even when full payment is not possible. The relevant filing requirements and payment questions should be discussed separately.
Keep the work understandable
A proposal should explain whether it includes return preparation, account review, notice response, or payment assistance. Ask what remains your responsibility and how missing information will be handled. Keep copies of submissions and relevant confirmation.
Practical questions for your discussion
Name the affected period and relevant sources available. Distinguish a record not found in storage from a conclusion about whether a return was submitted. Ask which official or other evidence can clarify the status and what source preparation is useful. Avoid filling a missing figure from a different year merely because that source is easy to locate.
Keep any current letter’s instructions visible while the older question is reviewed. Clarify whether preparation work is included in the service proposal and how its costs and responsibilities are explained. The IRS transcript resource supports official record information. Gathering business sources is a preparation task, not proof that filing or account requirements have been satisfied.
Read the current official instructions: IRS guidance on past-due returns.