Government workers and contractors with tax issues or unfiled returns are often at risk of losing their high-level security clearances. At Rosefelt & Associates, our dual licensed tax attorney and CPA understands the impact this can have on your career, as well as on you and your family’s financial security. Our firm is experienced in resolving tax issues and getting clients back into compliance to preserve or facilitate the renewal of security clearances.
Government Gets Tough On Investigating Tax Debts
A September 2013 report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that close to 9,000 people who have been cleared for 
security clearances owed roughly $85 million in unpaid federal taxes. In response, the GAO has recommended implementing additional mechanisms, such as more rigorous background checks, providing proof of past tax returns, and working more closely with the Internal Revenue Service, in order to weed out the applications of those who owe tax debts.
Owing back taxes, having years of unfiled tax returns, or having tax liens are all reasons for having a security clearance denied. When filling out the U.S. Department of Personnel Management’s Questionnaire for National Security Positions, there are questions that directly ask if you have failed to file or pay federal, state, or local tax returns over the last seven years, and you are expected to provide detailed information about your tax returns, your reasons for not filing or paying, and the total amount that you owe. While answering truthfully could get your application denied, failing to disclose this information could result in criminal charges.
Resolving Tax Issues That Impact Security Clearances
Whether you currently hold a security clearance, need to renew, or anticipate applying for it at some point in the near future, the time to act in addressing your tax situation is now. You can prevent potentially damaging ramifications that impact your career and financial security but letting our tax attorney guide you through I.R.S. programs to deal with delinquent tax debt. If you have years of unfiled tax returns, we can assist you in getting caught up in your filings. If you owe money to the IRS or have tax liens, we may be able to assist you in making the following arrangements:
- Online payment agreements: If you owe under $50,000, you may be able to work out installment agreements in which you pay back the amount owed over a period of six years. If you owe more than this amount, you may be able to get an installment plan allowing additional time.
- Offer in Compromise: Depending on your situation, we may be able to negotiate a settlement for less than what you owe.
Contact Our Experienced Dual Licensed Tax Attorney and CPA Today
If your job requires a security clearance and you have years of unfiled taxes, tax liens, or received notices regarding money owed to the IRS, contact Rosefelt & Associates today. Our experienced tax attorney can work with you and negotiate on your behalf with the IRS, to find a solution to your tax debts that best serves your needs. Our office serves Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and the rest of the nation; call or contact our office online today to request a confidential case consultation.