Dealing with the IRS and tax debt can be a confusing and frustrating endeavor. All the forms (W-2s, 1040s, etc.) and terminology (what exactly is a lien?) just add to the confusion. Before you attempt to tackle your tax debt, it can help to understand some tax debt myths. Avoiding filing is not helpful. In fact, most tax debt comes from a failure to file a tax return. When you don’t file, the IRS does what is called an SFR (Substitute For Return) filing. Basically, they take all the W-2 forms they have received from your employers, tally up the total, and calculate your taxes. So whether you file or not, the IRS has a way to keep track of what you owe - this isn’t the honor system! Secondly, bankruptcy may not be a good option to obtain tax debt relief. If you owe significant tax debt and are considering filing for bankruptcy, remember it is likely that your tax debt cannot be rolled into your bankruptcy. Even after you emerge from your bankruptcy proceedings, you will likely still owe the IRS. Third, remember that interest and penalties don’t just stop when you negotiate an agreement with the IRS. As long as your still have an outstanding balance on your tax debt, interest and penalties can still affect you. Remember that the faster you pay off your tax debt, the better! Lastly, don’t be scared of the IRS. Though they are an often-feared part of the government, remember that they are bound by rules and regulations - and their power is not omnipotent. In many cases, they are willing to work with you to help resolve your tax debt. As with most serious matters, default to an expert when you feel you are in over your head. Working with a qualified tax attorney or specialist can help you fully understand what your tax debt is, what your options are, and how you can obtain tax debt relief.