sard0nicpan
Junior Member
What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state?Louisiana
Situation: I owe about 20,000 in taxes in penalties for unfiled tax returns between 1995-2001.
History
uring that time I had a head injury and ended up with epilepsy. Somehow, although I was in a haze most of the time due to medication, I still worked and made decent money. Problem was I was not handling my personal life very well, sufferred from extremely bad judgement, and let myself fall into a fiscal hole.
I declared and was granted Bankruptcy in 1998--most of my debt was discharged except taxes and my student loan (which is still in default).
By 2002, my condition improved markedly (actually, I have not had a seizure in nearly 5 years and I have been off medication for three years). Since that time I have been putting things back together.
For the years 2002 & 2003, I made no more than 11,000 in either year. By 2004, I was working more (contract related) and made 27,000. In 2005, I have become a permanent worker at 40,000 per annum. Now that I am back on my feet, I see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, I also realize that the IRS will be standing there blocking the way.
As you might realize, my savings are still quite meager (I have about 1600 in my account). So, I need to negotiate some sort of deal before garnishments etc begin.
I know I need representation, however, how can I afford it? I am considering using PRE-Paid Legal for at least some advice, however, I am leary of them. Are they trustworthy? I see they have problems with people who work for them, yet, on the legal side I still see them being recommended.
Any opinions? Should I try them out?
I know eventually I will need someone to actually represent me before the IRS. The horror stories about those who go it alone do not persuade me otherwise. Am I correct in this assumption?
Please share your experiences in this manner, I need all the help I can get.
Thanks,
SP
Situation: I owe about 20,000 in taxes in penalties for unfiled tax returns between 1995-2001.
History
uring that time I had a head injury and ended up with epilepsy. Somehow, although I was in a haze most of the time due to medication, I still worked and made decent money. Problem was I was not handling my personal life very well, sufferred from extremely bad judgement, and let myself fall into a fiscal hole.I declared and was granted Bankruptcy in 1998--most of my debt was discharged except taxes and my student loan (which is still in default).
By 2002, my condition improved markedly (actually, I have not had a seizure in nearly 5 years and I have been off medication for three years). Since that time I have been putting things back together.
For the years 2002 & 2003, I made no more than 11,000 in either year. By 2004, I was working more (contract related) and made 27,000. In 2005, I have become a permanent worker at 40,000 per annum. Now that I am back on my feet, I see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, I also realize that the IRS will be standing there blocking the way.
As you might realize, my savings are still quite meager (I have about 1600 in my account). So, I need to negotiate some sort of deal before garnishments etc begin.
I know I need representation, however, how can I afford it? I am considering using PRE-Paid Legal for at least some advice, however, I am leary of them. Are they trustworthy? I see they have problems with people who work for them, yet, on the legal side I still see them being recommended.
Any opinions? Should I try them out?
I know eventually I will need someone to actually represent me before the IRS. The horror stories about those who go it alone do not persuade me otherwise. Am I correct in this assumption?
Please share your experiences in this manner, I need all the help I can get.
Thanks,
SP