Tax Relief Lawyers in Cortland

"Tax relief" in Cortland, Illinois can refer to a wide range of subjects. However, it almost always refers to lowering the tax liability, either of an individual, or a group of people.

When the term "tax relief" is used in the media, it's usually in the context of a politician, or someone running for elected office, promising that they'll reduce tax rates. Basically, "tax relief" is, in this context, another term for "tax cut."

However, many people in the general public, especially in these troubled economic times, often hear the words "tax relief" used in a completely different context. The phrase has become synonymous with businesses and individuals who claim they have some special method to help you lower your tax liability in Illinois. While some of these offers are legitimate, many of them are scams, and if you hire them, you'll end up in a worse position than you were before.

Tax Relief Scams in Cortland, Illinois

Many scammers in Cortland, Illinois claim that they can completely relieve you of your obligation to pay your taxes - for a fee, of course.

However, in many cases, these people have no ability or intent to help their "clients," and will simply take the money and run. In order to spot a tax relief scam, there are a few things that residents of Cortland, Illinois can look for.

One of the strongest indications that you're dealing with a scammer is if they guarantee that they can deliver a particular result. When it comes to negotiating with the IRS or state tax authorities, there are simply no guarantees, and a competent and ethical tax relief professional will know this, and tell you as much. The unfortunate fact is that, while the IRS does have programs allowing people to negotiate a lower tax bill, they only apply to people in extreme situations, who are unable to pay their taxes through no fault of their own. Most Cortland, Illinois residents will not be eligible.

And if a tax relief organization demands up-front payment, this should raise a big red flag for you. Many scammers in Cortland, whether they're promising tax relief, or anything else, will take your money, and then disappear, without even pretending to try to help you. The worst of the worst will also take the money you agreed to pay them, and then make unauthorized charges to your credit card, or withdrawals from your bank account.

How Can a Tax Relief Attorney in Cortland, Illinois Help?

If you owe a huge amount in back taxes, and are unable to pay them, it may well be helpful to seek the advice of a Cortland, Illinois tax attorney.

Your tax attorney in Cortland, Illinois will be able to give you honest advice about your tax obligations. While they may not tell you what you want to hear, unlike a scammer, they won't steal your money or put you deeper into debt. And in the off chance that you are scammed by a licensed attorney, you have significant legal recourse.