Behind on Taxes? A Tradesman’s Guide to IRS and State Tax Resolution

If you’re a contractor, mechanic, electrician, or run any type of trade business, you’re no stranger to long hours, physical work, and unpredictable income. That’s why we’ve created this Guide to IRS and State Tax Resolution—to help you handle tax issues with confidence. But if you’ve fallen behind on your taxes—or received a letter from the IRS—you’re also familiar with another kind of stress: tax trouble.

Whether it’s unpaid taxes, unfiled returns, or a letter you don’t understand, James D. Miller CPA is here to help blue-collar workers and trade professionals fix their tax problems and move forward with confidence.


Tax Issues Are Common in the Trades

It’s more common than you think: You were busy finishing jobs, chasing payments, or dealing with seasonal slowdowns—and now you’re behind on taxes. Maybe you didn’t file last year. Maybe you owe the IRS more than you can pay. Or maybe you didn’t even know you had a problem until that notice came in the mail.

Here are just a few reasons trade professionals find themselves in tax trouble:

  • Didn’t file one or more tax returns
  • Failed to make estimated payments as a self-employed worker
  • Misclassified employees or subcontractors
  • Took cash jobs and didn’t report all income
  • Fell behind during a tough year (injury, weather, slowdown, COVID, etc.)

What Happens If You Ignore It?

If the IRS or your state tax agency believes you owe money, they won’t just forget about it. Ignoring tax debt can lead to:

  • Wage garnishment
  • Bank levies (account seizures)
  • Liens against your home or property
  • Seized tax refunds
  • Penalties and interest piling up daily

For blue-collar professionals trying to grow a business or support a family, these consequences are devastating—but avoidable.


We Fix Tax Problems for Trade Professionals

At James D. Miller CPA, we’ve helped roofers, masons, mechanics, welders, and all kinds of hands-on workers resolve IRS and state tax issues—without judgment or lectures. We understand that you’re doing your best, and our job is to clean up the mess and protect your future.

Here’s how we help:

Unfiled Tax Returns

We investigate IRS records on what has been filed attributable to you. We’ll prepare and file any missing returns in accordance with what we find—accurately and fast—so you stop accumulating late fees and penalties.

Back Tax Negotiation

We negotiate directly with the IRS or your state tax agency to restructure, and when possible reduce, what you owe. Depending on your circumstances you may qualify for:

  • Installment Agreement: Pay over time
  • Offer in Compromise: Settle for less than the full amount
  • Penalty Abatement: Remove fees if there’s a reasonable cause
  • Currently Not Collectible: Pause collection if you can’t pay now

Wage and Bank Levy Release

If the IRS has started garnishing your wages or seized funds, we’ll act quickly to release levies and stop collections.

Tax Lien Management

We help remove or subordinate liens to protect your property and credit—especially important if you’re trying to buy a house or equipment.


We Speak Your Language—No Tax Jargon

In another time in life Jim had a contractors license so he can speak your language. You’re not just another file to us. You’re a skilled worker with real responsibilities. We break things down simply, explain your options clearly, and handle the paperwork so you can focus on your work.

Our process:

  1. Free consultation to assess your situation
  2. Tax transcript review to understand what the IRS has on record
  3. Personalized resolution plan
  4. Ongoing support to stay compliant in the future

Prevent Future Tax Trouble

Once we’ve resolved your current issue, we help you stay ahead. That includes:

  • Easy-to-use bookkeeping solutions
  • Quarterly tax estimate planning
  • Help structuring your business for better cash flow
  • Reminders and guidance to file on time, every time

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the trades and facing tax problems, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. With expert help, you can resolve your tax issues, regain control of your finances, and build a stronger business future.


Behind on taxes or dealing with IRS letters?

Contact James D. Miller CPA today for a free, confidential consultation. We help trade professionals like you resolve tax issues fast—and get back to what you do best.

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James D. Miller, CPA is a trusted accounting firm with over 30 years of experience serving individuals and businesses. The firm specializes in tax preparation, tax planning, bookkeeping, and business advisory services, delivering personalized solutions with integrity and expertise.

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