Tax debt help should be easy to understand. Call about an unpaid balance, a notice, or difficulty paying and explore the payment, settlement, or penalty questions that may need closer 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
A reading list can explain how records may be obtained, but the filing question still needs actual evidence. Pair each missing source with the purpose it would serve in preparation.
Ask a preparer which source is needed first and how unavailable material should be discussed. Track requests, records received, and further review on separate lines. A list can be fully read while the document gap remains open. Preserve that distinction so progress reflects the actual evidence instead of the number of links visited.
Read the current official instructions: IRS guidance on past-due returns.