Q. I just completed my return and find that I owe the IRS money. What should I do?

A. You should file your return even if you can't pay all of the amount you owe. File by April 15, 1997, and pay as much as possible. By filing on time, you avoid the late filing penalty. By paying as much of the amount you owe as possible, you reduce the amount of interest and late payment penalty that you will owe. For more details on interest and penalties, refer to Tax Topic 201, The Collection Process, or Publication 594, Understanding the Collection Process.

Q. Can I ask to make installment payments on the amount I owe?

A. Yes. If you cannot pay the full amount due with your return, you may ask to make monthly installment payments. However, you will be charged interest and a late payment penalty on the tax not paid by April 15, 1997, even if your request to pay in installments is granted. Before requesting an installment agreement, you should consider less costly alternatives such as a bank loan. For more details on installment payments, refer to Tax Topic 202, What to do if You Can't Pay Your Tax, or Publication 594, Understanding the Collection Process.

Q. Can my refund be used to pay other debts?

A. Under the law, state and federal agencies refer to the IRS the names of taxpayers who are behind in their support payments, taxes, and loans. Your tax refund may not be refunded to you if you are delinquent in child support payments or you have a past due federal debt (such as a student loan). Therefore, your refund may be used to pay other debts you owe. For additional information, refer to Tax Topic 203, Failure to Pay Child Support and Other Federal Obligations.

Q. I am unable to pay my delinquent taxes. Will the IRS accept an "offer in compromise?"

A. An offer-in-compromise may be an alternative for resolving your tax delinquency. The IRS accepts an offer in compromise to settle unpaid accounts for less than the amount owed when doubt exists as to whether you owe the liability or when there is doubt that the liability can be collected in full and your offer reasonably reflects collection potential. Refer to Tax Topic 204, Offers-in Compromise, for additional information.

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