Tax Relief Lawyers in Mattoon

The term "tax relief" can refer to various different things in Mattoon, Illinois. But, it is normally used to refer to some action that reduces the tax liability of an individual, corporation, or a certain category of individuals.

When a politician or government official uses the term "tax relief," they are typically referring to tax cuts, which are simply a reduction in the tax rate for everybody, or certain people.

But, many members of the general public, particularly in recent years, associate "tax relief" with businesses or individuals who claim they can lower your tax liability - typically advertising on the Internet or the radio. These advertisements frequently claim that they have brilliant lawyers and negotiators who can help you get out of your duty to pay taxes. While many of these organizations are valid, and are actually interested in helping their clients, a substantial percentage of "tax relief" organizations in Illinois are scams.

Tax Relief Scams in Mattoon, Illinois

Some con-artists in Mattoon, Illinois say that they have some secret technique that permits you to reduce the amount of taxes you're legally obliged to pay, or that they can erase any tax debt that you have incurred.

But you should beware: no honest tax relief business in Mattoon, Illinois will make such promises, because they know it's almost always impossible to deliver on them. Fortunately, there are several features you can look for to help you spot - and avoid - tax relief scammers.

One of the biggest warning signs that one should look for is an explicit promise that someone can eliminate your tax debt. This is simply not a promise that anyone can honestly make. While the IRS does have programs to advise people who are really unable to pay their back taxes, through no fault of their own, they only apply in the most extreme cases, so the vast majority of taxpayers in Mattoon, Illinois don't qualify for them.

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

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

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

Your tax attorney in Mattoon, Illinois will be able to give you honest advice about your tax commitments. 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 substantial legal recourse.