First of all you can count on this information that I am providing. I am an Enrolled Agent, licensed by the IRS to represent taxpayers and I handle these issues everyday.
A few things.
I. There is no such thing as a 100% wage levy. The amount is substancial, but it is not 100%. If you would like to see exactly how much will be deducted from your paycheck via an IRS wage levy, you can refer to the following tables to calculate the amount:
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1494.pdfII. Chances are you do not qualify for an Offer in
Compromise if you only owe the IRS $5k and are still actively working. The offer in compromise program is hugely overpromoted by poor tax resolution companies looking to make a quick buck.
III. It is possible to have the wage levy removed immediately and before any money is taken out of your paycheck, but you have to act quickly. It will be necessary for you to be in compliance, meaning you are current on all of your tax filings to date.
IV. Acting quickly may also help you avoid a tax lien which will have harsh consequenes on your credit report and credit score.
V. If the amount of tax you owe is based upon a tax return the IRS filed for you, you will most likely want to file a return to replace the IRS substitute for return to reduce the liability.
V. In addition to the wage garnishment, you are also currently subject to bank levy action. That means that as of RIGHT NOW THE IRS CAN LEVY YOUR BANK ACCOUNT AND TAKE ANY MONEY YOU HAVE IN IT UP TO THE AMOUNT OF TAX DUE. You need to resolve your issue immediately to prevent this from happening. Once the IRS levies a bank account it is nearly impossible to get them to release the funds.
VI. The best way to resolve your tax debt is likely going to be by setting up what is called a guaranteed or streamlined installment agreeement. For information on these types of agreements you can view a short video I have put togather free of charge on my youtube channel at:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=b5SnqFLTJGYI hope this information helps.
Christopher R. Jacquez, EA