Form preview

Get the free IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise

Get Form
We are not affiliated with any brand or entity on this form
Illustration
Fill out
Complete the form online in a simple drag-and-drop editor.
Illustration
eSign
Add your legally binding signature or send the form for signing.
Illustration
Share
Share the form via a link, letting anyone fill it out from any device.
Illustration
Export
Download, print, email, or move the form to your cloud storage.

Why pdfFiller is the best tool for your documents and forms

GDPR
AICPA SOC 2
PCI
HIPAA
CCPA
FDA

End-to-end document management

From editing and signing to collaboration and tracking, pdfFiller has everything you need to get your documents done quickly and efficiently.

Accessible from anywhere

pdfFiller is fully cloud-based. This means you can edit, sign, and share documents from anywhere using your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Secure and compliant

pdfFiller lets you securely manage documents following global laws like ESIGN, CCPA, and GDPR. It's also HIPAA and SOC 2 compliant.
Form preview

What is IRS Form 656

The IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise is a tax document used by taxpayers to request a compromise on tax liabilities owed to the IRS.

pdfFiller scores top ratings on review platforms

Users Most Likely To Recommend - Summer 2025
Grid Leader in Small-Business - Summer 2025
High Performer - Summer 2025
Regional Leader - Summer 2025
Show more Show less
Fill fillable IRS 656 form: Try Risk Free
Rate free IRS 656 form
4.5
satisfied
31 votes

Who needs IRS Form 656?

Explore how professionals across industries use pdfFiller.
Picture
IRS Form 656 is needed by:
  • Individuals with outstanding tax debts
  • Small business owners facing tax liabilities
  • Taxpayers disputing their owed amounts
  • Tax professionals assisting clients
  • Financial advisors guiding clients on tax issues
  • Individuals seeking tax relief options

Comprehensive Guide to IRS Form 656

What is the IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise?

IRS Form 656 serves as a crucial tax document enabling individuals and businesses to negotiate their tax liabilities with the Internal Revenue Service effectively. This form is particularly significant when facing situations where taxpayers believe that the IRS cannot collect the full amount owed or those who dispute their overall tax obligations.
The form is employed primarily under circumstances of financial hardship, enabling taxpayers to submit a proposal that reflects their ability to pay. Understanding its role is essential for those who may benefit from an offer in compromise, ultimately leading to a more manageable tax resolution.

Purpose and Benefits of the IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise

The primary purpose of the IRS Form 656 is to provide a platform for taxpayers to settle their outstanding tax debts for an amount less than what is originally owed. This process can significantly alleviate financial strain, especially for those facing economic difficulties.
Utilizing this form offers numerous advantages, including relief from penalties and interest that accumulate on unpaid taxes. Moreover, both individuals and businesses can leverage this offer to reach agreements that reflect their current financial situations, aiding in a faster recovery from tax-related issues.

Who Should Use the IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise?

The IRS Form 656 is particularly beneficial for taxpayers who find themselves in a situation where paying their full tax liabilities is impossible. This includes both individuals and businesses seeking to reduce their tax burdens effectively.
It's important for potential filers to assess their financial situations critically before proceeding. Understanding when to apply the offer in compromise can lead to more favorable outcomes in managing tax obligations.

Eligibility Criteria for the IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise

To successfully file the IRS Form 656, taxpayers must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements often hinge on demonstrated financial hardship, which can include factors such as income and asset limitations.
Additionally, the concepts of "doubt as to collectability" and "doubt as to liability" must be understood, as they play a crucial role in determining eligibility. Providing accurate income and asset disclosures is imperative for a smooth submission process.

How to Fill Out the IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise Online (Step-by-Step)

Filling out the IRS Form 656 online can streamline the entire process. To begin, access the form via the pdfFiller platform. Once you have the form, follow these initial steps:
  • Open the IRS Form 656 template in pdfFiller.
  • Carefully fill out the critical sections, including your name, income details, and expenses.
  • Review the completed form to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Taking the time to review your submission can help reduce common errors that may lead to rejection.

Required Documents and Supporting Materials for IRS Form 656

Submitting the IRS Form 656 requires specific supporting documents to substantiate the request. A detailed inventory of documents needed includes:
  • Form 433-A, which outlines individual financial details.
  • Form 433-B, for business financial disclosures.
  • Any additional financial records that demonstrate your economic situation.
Accurate financial disclosures are vital to avoiding delays and ensuring a successful application process.

Submission Methods for the IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise

Taxpayers can submit the completed IRS Form 656 through various methods. The acceptable submission options include both online and traditional mail methods:
  • Mail to the designated IRS unit based on your location.
  • Submission through the IRS online platform.
When mailing, it’s advisable to include a cover letter outlining your submission details, which can assist the IRS in processing your application more efficiently.

Tracking Your Submission of the IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise

After submitting Form 656, taxpayers can confirm the status of their application through several methods. By contacting the IRS, you can inquire about the timing and expected feedback regarding your submission.
Understanding common reasons for delays—such as incomplete documentation or issues with financial disclosures—can also help you prepare to address any potential concerns proactively.

Avoiding Common Mistakes with IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise

Minimizing errors during the filling and submission process is crucial to securing a successful offer in compromise. Common mistakes that lead to rejections include:
  • Incomplete financial information disclosures.
  • Failure to properly sign and date the form.
To improve the accuracy of your submission, thoroughly review the form and utilize available resources for validation prior to submission.

How pdfFiller Can Help with Your IRS Form 656 Offer in Compromise

pdfFiller enhances the form-filling process for the IRS Form 656 by providing intuitive tools designed for ease of use. With secure editing and eSigning features, users can manage their sensitive information safely while completing forms efficiently.
Embracing pdfFiller’s capabilities can lead to a more seamless experience, ensuring that your offer in compromise gets noticed and processed expediently.
Last updated on Apr 6, 2016

How to fill out the IRS Form 656

  1. 1.
    Access pdfFiller and search for 'IRS Form 656' in the template library. Open the required form to begin your completion process.
  2. 2.
    Use pdfFiller's interface to navigate through the form fields. Click on each blank space to fill in with your personal information, ensuring accuracy.
  3. 3.
    Gather all necessary financial documents prior to starting, including income statements, asset details, and liabilities. This information will be required to substantiate your offer.
  4. 4.
    Review your entries carefully as you fill out the form. Ensure you’ve correctly filled out information, particularly your name, Social Security number, and tax liabilities.
  5. 5.
    After completing the form, utilize pdfFiller's review tools to finalize your document. Check for any omissions or errors that need correction.
  6. 6.
    Once reviewed, you can save your work directly on pdfFiller. Choose to download the form as a PDF file or use an electronic submission option if available.
Regular content decoration

FAQs

If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact us anytime!
Taxpayers who owe taxes to the IRS and believe they cannot pay the full amount owed are eligible to file IRS Form 656. This includes individuals and small businesses experiencing financial difficulties.
Along with IRS Form 656, taxpayers must submit supporting documents such as Form 433-A or 433-B, providing detailed financial information including assets, income, and expenses.
There are no strict deadlines for submitting IRS Form 656; however, taxpayers should file as soon as they determine they cannot meet tax liabilities. Timely submissions can lead to reductions in owed amounts.
After accurately completing IRS Form 656, you can submit it directly to the IRS either via mail or through electronic submission if using an approved portal. Ensure to follow the instructions provided on the form.
Common mistakes include providing incorrect personal information, failing to sign the form, and not including necessary supporting documents. Double-check each section and ensure completeness before submitting.
Typically, the IRS takes approximately six months to process an Offer in Compromise. Processing times may vary depending on the complexity of your case and the current IRS workload.
Yes, there is a fee to file IRS Form 656, which varies based on the specific circumstances. However, taxpayers who demonstrate low income can have this fee waived.
If you believe that this page should be taken down, please follow our DMCA take down process here .
This form may include fields for payment information. Data entered in these fields is not covered by PCI DSS compliance.