The IRS Fresh Start Initiative, launched in 2011 and expanded since, made three significant changes. First, the threshold for streamlined installment agreements (no financial disclosure required) increased to $50,000. Second, the IRS will now withdraw a Notice of Federal Tax Lien once you enter a Direct Debit Installment Agreement. Third, the Offer in Compromise formula was adjusted to make more taxpayers eligible.
Before Fresh Start, a taxpayer owing $35,000 had to provide full financial disclosure on Form 433-A. Now that same taxpayer qualifies for a streamlined agreement with no financial questions asked, paid over 72 months.
Lien Withdrawal Under Fresh Start
This is the biggest win for most taxpayers. A lien withdrawal removes the public filing entirely. It is not just a release (which shows the lien was satisfied) but a withdrawal (which removes it as if it never existed). This matters enormously for credit scores and future borrowing.
To qualify, you must owe $50,000 or less, be in a Direct Debit agreement, and have made three consecutive payments. We handle the application.
Want to talk through your situation?
Call the Law Offices of Darrin T. Mish, P.A. at (813) 229-7100. For the numbers behind these topics, see the calculation guides.
Call (813) 229-7100