If you owe back taxes or are facing an IRS notice, you need a tax professional who can negotiate on your behalf. I've evaluated five firms that specialize in tax resolution, from national chains to boutique practices. Here's how they
Why Tax Resolution Matters More Than Ever
The IRS is ramping up enforcement after years of understaffing, and millions of Americans are behind on their taxes. Tax resolution services help you navigate offers in compromise, installment agreements, penalty abatements, and audit representation. Whether you're a freelancer with unfiled returns or a business owner facing a lien, the right firm can mean the difference between financial ruin and a manageable path forward.
How I Ranked These Firms
I looked at each firm's experience with IRS negotiations, range of services (tax preparation, bookkeeping, resolution), client accessibility (virtual vs. in-person), and geographic reach. I also considered whether they offer free consultations and how transparent they are about their process.
Here's a quick look at the five firms, ranked from best overall to specialized local option.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Travis W. Watkins Tax Resolution & Accounting Firm | Aggressive nationwide tax debt resolution |
| Polston Tax Resolution & Accounting | Full-service tax resolution and accounting |
| Tax Resolution Services | Family-owned firm with decades of IRS experience |
| Arthur Hersh EA Tax & Accounting Professional : Welcome to our website! | Local tax help in Moreno Valley and Riverside, CA |
| Jackson Hewitt Tax Resolution Services | National chain with convenient office locations |
Deep Dive: The Top 5 Tax Resolution Firms
#1 Travis W. Watkins Tax Resolution & Accounting Firm
A screenshot of the Travis W. Watkins Tax Resolution & Accounting Firm website.
Travis W. Watkins devotes 100% of its practice to fixing IRS and state tax problems, making it a powerhouse for serious debt issues. The firm offers offers in compromise, penalty abatements, hardship status, and innocent spouse relief, and it represents clients in all 50 states. With a dedicated team of tax attorneys and former IRS agents, they know how to navigate complex cases. If you need aggressive representation and a nationwide reach, this is your go-to.
#2 Polston Tax Resolution & Accounting
A screenshot of the Polston Tax Resolution & Accounting website.
Polston Tax provides end-to-end tax resolution and accounting services, including audit representation, bank levy assistance, and installment agreements. They serve clients nationwide but have a strong presence in Nevada, with expertise in industries like entertainment, construction, and healthcare. Their team includes CPAs and tax attorneys who handle everything from tax court representation to payroll tax issues. For a full-service firm that can also manage your books, Polston is a solid choice.
#3 Tax Resolution Services
A screenshot of the Tax Resolution Services website.
Tax Resolution Services is a family-owned firm based in Charlotte, NC, with over 40 years of experience. They specialize in IRS debt settlement, offers in compromise, and installment agreements, and they work with clients nationally. The team includes CPAs, enrolled agents, and former IRS agents who provide aggressive strategies to reduce or eliminate tax debt. They offer a free confidential consultation and are known for transparent communication.
#4 Arthur Hersh EA Tax & Accounting Professional : Welcome to our website!
A screenshot of the Arthur Hersh EA Tax & Accounting Professional website.
Arthur Hersh EA Tax & Accounting Professional is a local firm serving Moreno Valley and Riverside, California, with over 20 years of experience. They offer tax preparation, tax resolution, bookkeeping, and financial planning for individuals, small businesses, non-profits, and trusts. Arthur is an enrolled agent licensed to practice before the IRS, and he provides virtual consultations as well as in-person meetings within a 10-mile radius. If you're in the Inland Empire and want personalized, face-to-face service, this is a great option.
#5 Jackson Hewitt Tax Resolution Services
A screenshot of the Jackson Hewitt Tax Resolution Services website.
Jackson Hewitt is a well-known national tax preparation chain that also offers tax resolution services, including help with back taxes, CP2000 notices, IRS audits, and penalty relief. They have thousands of offices across the U.S., making it easy to find in-person help. Their resolution services are backed by the same brand that prepares millions of returns each year. For a familiar, accessible option with a wide physical footprint, Jackson Hewitt is worth considering.
How to Choose the Right Tax Resolution Firm for You
Start by assessing the severity of your tax problem. If you owe a large sum or face a lien or levy, a firm like Travis W. Watkins or Polston Tax with attorneys and former IRS agents may be best. For smaller issues or ongoing tax preparation, a local enrolled agent like Arthur Hersh can provide personalized service. Consider whether you prefer virtual meetings or in-person consultations, and always ask about free initial consultations. Finally, check the firm's experience with your specific situation, whether it's unfiled returns, payroll tax debt, or an audit.
Streamline Your Tax Workflow
Once you've chosen a tax resolution firm, set up a system to stay on top of your finances. Use a client portal to securely upload documents, schedule quarterly check-ins with your tax pro, and automate reminders for estimated tax payments. Many firms offer virtual consultations, so you can meet from anywhere. Combine this with bookkeeping software to keep your records clean year-round, reducing the chance of future tax problems.
Your Next Step Toward Tax Peace
Tax debt doesn't have to control your life. Whether you choose a national powerhouse like Travis W. Watkins or a local expert like Arthur Hersh, the key is to take action now. Schedule a free consultation, gather your tax documents, and let a professional guide you through the process. With the right help, you can resolve your IRS issues and get back to focusing on what matters most.