Older tax balances and unfinished return questions can need different kinds of attention. Get help discussing what is owed, what the IRS is asking, and which payment or relief options are worth exploring.
Identify what is known
If you are unsure whether a return was filed, explain what records you have rather than assuming that a prepared copy proves submission. Past-due filing questions and a balance already shown by the IRS may require different follow-up.
Discuss the information needed
Ask which tax years require attention and what income or other records would be useful. Filing a past-due return can be important even when full payment is not possible. The relevant filing requirements and payment questions should be discussed separately.
Keep the work understandable
A proposal should explain whether it includes return preparation, account review, notice response, or payment assistance. Ask what remains your responsibility and how missing information will be handled. Keep copies of submissions and relevant confirmation.
Practical questions for your discussion
Name the year and list return copies, source documents, and any filing confirmations. Record the private location and completeness of each item. Where a source is missing, explain why it matters and how it may be obtained. Avoid an unexplained complete label that combines several different tasks.
Ask a preparer what additional material is required for the proposed work. Update the checklist when a record arrives, while leaving assessment status unchanged until that assessment actually occurs. The list is a preparation aid, not an individual filing determination or a substitute for evidence of a completed submission.
Read the current official instructions: IRS guidance on past-due returns.