Tax Relief in Orange County How to Stop IRS Wage Garnishments Fast
Introduction
If you're dealing with IRS wage garnishment in Orange County, you're not alone—and you're not out of options. Wage garnishments can feel like financial handcuffs, draining your paycheck before it ever hits your bank account. But with the right strategy and a qualified tax resolution expert on your side, you can stop IRS wage garnishment with help from a local Orange County CPA and reclaim control over your finances.
At Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC, based in Orange County, CA, we specialize in helping individuals and business owners navigate complex IRS issues, including wage garnishments, tax liens, levies, and back taxes. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about stopping wage garnishment and how our tax resolution services can help.
What Is IRS Wage Garnishment ?
Wage garnishment is a legal process where the IRS takes a portion of your paycheck to collect unpaid tax debt. Unlike private creditors, the IRS doesn’t need a court order—they can initiate garnishment once they’ve sent you proper notice and you haven’t responded.
How It Works:
- The IRS sends a Final Notice of Intent to Levy.
- You have 30 days to respond or appeal.
- If no action is taken, the IRS notifies your employer.
- Your employer is legally required to withhold a portion of your wages and send it directly to the IRS.
Why the IRS Garnishes Wages
Wage garnishment is one of the IRS's most aggressive collection tools, typically used when:
- You owe back taxes and haven’t made payment arrangements.
- You've ignored IRS notices or failed to respond.
- You've defaulted on an existing payment plan or Offer in Compromise.
The good news? You have legal rights and options to stop garnishment—especially if you act quickly and respond to IRS levy or garnishment notices as soon as possible.
How Much Can the IRS Garnish From Your Paycheck?
Unlike other creditors who are limited by state law, the IRS calculates garnishment based on your standard deduction and number of dependents. This means they can often leave you with just enough to survive.
For example:
- A single filer with no dependents may keep less than $400/week.
- The rest goes straight to your tax bill.
If you’re a resident of Orange County, where the cost of living is high, this can quickly lead to financial disaster unless you act fast to protect your bank account from IRS enforcement.
How to Stop IRS Wage Garnishment Fast
Here are the most effective and legal ways to stop wage garnishment:
1. Contact a Local Tax Resolution Expert Immediately
Working with a local CPA who understands California tax laws and has experience dealing directly with the IRS gives you the best shot at fast resolution.
Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC, located in Orange County, has successfully negotiated garnishment releases for dozens of local clients. We move quickly and act on your behalf.
2. File for a Collection Due Process (CDP) Hearing
If it's been less than 30 days since the IRS issued their Final Notice, you may request a CDP hearing to temporarily halt garnishment.
3. Set Up an IRS Payment Plan (Installment Agreement)
A payment plan can reduce financial strain and pause IRS collections if you can’t afford to pay. We’ll help you determine what plan you qualify for:
- Guaranteed Installment Agreements
- Streamlined Agreements
- Partial Pay Agreements
4. Submit an Offer in Compromise (OIC)
An OIC allows you to settle your tax debt and lift the garnishment for less than the full amount owed. If accepted, garnishment stops immediately.
We help Orange County clients prepare thorough, compelling OIC packages that maximize chances of acceptance.
5. Prove Financial Hardship (Currently Not Collectible Status)
If wage garnishment creates an undue hardship, you may qualify for CNC status, temporarily stopping all collection activities.
6. Bankruptcy (Last Resort)
Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy may discharge or restructure your tax debt. This should only be considered after all other avenues are explored.
Why Work With a Local Orange County Tax Resolution Expert?
Choosing a local CPA firm like Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC means:
- Face-to-face support and personalized attention
- Deep understanding of California tax regulations
- Connections with local IRS agents and appeals officers
- Faster response times and more effective resolution strategies
Many national tax resolution companies overpromise and underdeliver. We’re based right here in Orange County, and our reputation is built on results.
Real Client Success Story from Orange County
"I was losing over $1,200 a month to IRS garnishments and couldn’t keep up with rent. I called Boulanger CPA, and within 48 hours, they got the garnishment lifted and put me on a manageable payment plan. They literally saved me." – Mike H., Santa Ana
What To Expect When You Call Us
When you reach out to us for help with IRS wage garnishment:
- Free Initial Consultation – We assess your situation and review IRS notices.
- Compliance Check – We’ll ensure your tax returns are up to date.
- Action Plan – We develop a customized strategy to stop garnishment.
- Immediate IRS Contact – We notify the IRS that you have representation and begin negotiations.
Don’t Wait—Take Action Today
IRS wage garnishment doesn’t go away on its own. In fact, it can escalate. The longer you wait, the more difficult (and costly) it becomes.
If you're located in Orange County, CA and need fast, reliable help, contact Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC today. We specialize in IRS tax relief, and we’re ready to defend your paycheck and your peace of mind.
📍 Visit Us: https://www.orangecounty.cpa
📞 Call Now: 657-218-5700
📧 Schedule a Free Consultation
Need Help Right Now?
We’re here for you. Call our Orange County office today to stop garnishment fast
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IRS wage garnishment?
The IRS can take a portion of your paycheck directly from your employer until your tax debt is paid or resolved.
How much of my paycheck can the IRS take?
They can take nearly everything above a minimal exempt amount—often leaving you with far less than you need to live on.
How do I stop an IRS wage garnishment quickly?
You must contact the IRS or have a CPA do it for you. Options include a payment plan, CNC status, or an Offer in Compromise.
Will my employer know I owe taxes?
Yes. When the IRS issues the garnishment, they notify your employer directly. That’s why quick action matters.
How long does it take to remove a garnishment?
It can take as little as 1–3 business days with proper documentation and a CPA who knows how to negotiate quickly.
Why should I hire a CPA in Orange County?
A local CPA can act fast, knows how to speak directly to IRS personnel, and can build a strategy that protects both your paycheck and long-term finances.
📣 About the Author
Marc Boulanger, CPA is the founder of Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC, a boutique tax resolution firm based in Orange County, California and trusted by high-income individuals and business owners across Southern California.
He is the author of Defend What’s Yours: A California Taxpayer’s Guide to Beating the IRS and FTB at Their Own Game, available now on Amazon. The book offers a step-by-step plan for resolving IRS and FTB tax debt without losing your business, your home, or your peace of mind.
With over a decade of experience resolving high-stakes IRS and State tax matters, Marc brings strategic insight to complex cases involving wage garnishments, bank levies, unfiled returns, and six-figure tax debts. He is known for helping clients reduce or eliminate tax liabilities through expertly negotiated settlements and compliance plans.
Marc is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in California and Oklahoma and holds the designation of Certified Tax Representation Consultant. He is a member of the American Society of Tax Problem Solvers (ASTPS) — the national organization founded by the educators and practitioners who have trained thousands of CPAs, EAs, and tax attorneys in IRS representation strategy.
Every case is handled with discretion, proven methodology, and direct CPA-led representation — not call center scripts.
📍 Learn more at www.orangecounty.cpa or call (657) 218-5700.
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