The Truth About IRS Debt (And How to Fix It)

📌 Overview:

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Derek Dombeck sits down with Carlos Samaniego, a former medic-turned-enrolled agent who helps individuals and small business owners resolve their most stressful tax problems. From his own 8-year battle with the IRS to starting Tax Debt Consultants with his wife, Carlos shares raw, inspiring insights and busts myths about dealing with Uncle Sam. Whether you're behind on your taxes or know someone who is, this episode is a must-listen.

✅ Key Takeaways:

1. Carlos’ Backstory: How bad financial advice led to 8 years of unfiled taxes — and how it almost ruined his life.

2. The IRS Isn’t Out to Get You: Understanding the IRS’s actual goal: resolution, not destruction.

3. How to Legally Fight Back: The 4 main solutions for resolving tax debt: Installment Agreement, Offer in Compromise, Currently Not Collectible, Partial Pay.

4. IRS Myths Debunked: No, the IRS doesn’t want your house. Yes, they care about your financial reality.

5. Why You Should Always File, Even if You Can’t Pay: Not filing is worse than owing.

6. How to Know If You Qualify for a Settlement: The truth behind “Fresh Start” ads.

7. Step-by-Step Resolution Plan: Carlos’ 3-phase system—Investigate, Comply, Resolve.

8. Bankruptcy & Tax Debt: Yes, in some cases, IRS debt can be discharged in bankruptcy.

🎯 Why Should You Listen:

• You're behind on taxes or know someone who is.

• You’re a real estate investor, small business owner, or entrepreneur confused about IRS processes.

• You want honest, clear, and expert guidance on dealing with tax issues without getting scammed.

• You enjoy stories of redemption, perseverance, and heart-centered service.

🧠 Relevant Topics Discussed:

• IRS myths and realities

• Personal story of overcoming $100K+ tax debt

• How the IRS evaluates ability to pay

• The danger of tax resolution scams

• The real rules behind Offers in Compromise (Fresh Start)

• What states like California can legally do

• Penalties, interest, and how to manage them

• How unfiled tax returns compound problems

• Bankruptcy as a last resort for tax debt

• Importance of professional representation

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