Attention:  Overdue taxes can prevent you from returning to the U.S.

At the start of this year, the policy for passport issuance and renewal has changed. This revision in the 2015 policy has been estimated to affect nearly 362,000 Americans who are currently classified as delinquent on their taxes and may owe $51,000 or more.

As of now, the State Department has already been notified by the IRS and individuals are being denied their passports (as well as renewals). Regardless of your location, in the U.S. or abroad, your passport can also be suspended until your tax issue is resolved. In order to return to the U.S., delinquent taxpayers have the option to request a permit from the State Department known as a limited validity passport. However, the processing alone can take up 4-6 weeks unless you decide to expedite it; which can take up to 3 weeks.

How to Ensure You Are Not Affected

If you have received a letter from the State Department, then you already know what your next step is. However, for those who don’t regularly check their mail or may be working overseas, you can call 1 (877) 487-2778 or contact the National Passport Information Center. If you believe that your notification was made in error, you can challenge the decision by filing a suit with the U.S. Tax Court. However, it is best to contact a professional accountant for a review of your notification.

How We Can Help

The IRS has two options for those who may be affected by this change: pay your balance in full or arrange an installment agreement. By making an installment agreement or an offer in compromise, taxpayers won’t have to worry about their passports being revoked or suspended. The downside to this would be the 30 day wait period before being removed off of the IRS and State Department’s list. Once removed, taxpayers can apply, renew, or continue using their passport. 

Don’t leave it up to the IRS to determine what you owe, our team of experienced professionals can assist you with the accurate filing of your taxes and help you in the setup of an installment plan. 

Call today to get started: (866)-272-9224