Finding Relief Through IRS Payment Plans: How an Installment Agreement Can Help You Regain Control
For many Texans, the thought of owing money to the IRS can feel overwhelming. You might receive one notice, then another, and before long, the amount due — plus interest and penalties — begins to feel unmanageable. But the truth is, most taxpayers can work with the IRS to resolve their debt without losing sleep or assets. One of the most effective tools for doing that is an Installment Agreement, also known as an IRS payment plan.
At Infinity Resolution, Michelle Hiller, EA, helps individuals and business owners throughout Houston and across Texas set up customized payment plans that make sense for their financial situation. With the right strategy, it’s possible to regain control, stop collection actions, and start fresh.
What Is an IRS Installment Agreement?
An Installment Agreement is a formal arrangement with the IRS that allows you to pay your tax debt over time in monthly payments you can afford. Instead of demanding the full amount at once — which most taxpayers can’t manage — the IRS agrees to a structured plan that keeps you in good standing as long as you make timely payments.
There are several types of Installment Agreements, depending on how much you owe and your overall financial picture:
Guaranteed or Streamlined Agreements: For taxpayers who owe less than a certain threshold (typically under $50,000) and can pay it off within six years. These are the most common and straightforward to set up.
Partial Payment Installment Agreements: For those who can’t afford to pay the full balance but can make smaller, steady payments until the IRS collection period expires.
Non-Streamlined Agreements: For larger balances or complex financial situations requiring full documentation of income, assets, and expenses.
Once your plan is approved, the IRS usually stops aggressive actions such as wage garnishments, bank levies, and liens, provided you stay current with payments and future tax filings.
Why Setting Up a Payment Plan Matters
Delaying action on IRS debt only makes the situation worse. Interest and penalties accumulate daily, and ignoring notices can lead to enforcement actions that are difficult to reverse. Setting up an Installment Agreement accomplishes three key things:
Stops the Stress: Once a plan is in place, collection letters and threats of levies stop. You can focus on rebuilding instead of worrying about what might happen next.
Protects Your Income and Assets: An approved plan prevents most new garnishments and bank freezes, giving you financial breathing room.
Builds a Path to Resolution: Every payment made brings you closer to clearing your balance and restoring compliance with the IRS.
It’s not just about paying what you owe — it’s about regaining peace of mind and taking control of your financial future.
How the Process Works
Applying for an Installment Agreement requires more than just filling out a form. The IRS evaluates your financial situation carefully to ensure the plan is fair and feasible. This involves reviewing your income, household expenses, assets, and debts to determine how much you can reasonably pay each month.
For streamlined agreements, this can often be done online or through a simple request. For larger balances, though, the process is more detailed — and accuracy matters. Errors or omissions can cause delays, rejections, or future complications if your plan becomes unmanageable.
That’s where professional guidance makes a difference.
How Infinity Resolution Helps Texans Find the Right Solution
Every taxpayer’s situation is different. Some need quick relief from immediate IRS collection pressure; others want to settle a long-standing debt while avoiding new penalties. Michelle Hiller, EA, takes a hands-on, personalized approach to every case.
Here’s how she helps her clients across Texas:
Thorough Case Review: Michelle examines your IRS transcripts and financial records to understand exactly what’s owed and whether penalties can be reduced.
Customized Payment Strategies: She calculates the best payment amount based on your real-life budget — not an unrealistic number the IRS might demand.
Direct IRS Communication: Michelle handles all correspondence and negotiations with the IRS, ensuring your rights are protected and deadlines are met.
Long-Term Support: Even after your payment plan is approved, she stays available to help you stay compliant with future filings and payments.
Her professional yet compassionate approach turns what feels like a stressful process into a manageable one.
Other Relief Options to Consider
While an Installment Agreement is one of the most common IRS relief programs, it’s not the only option. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for:
Penalty Abatement, if you have a good compliance history and a valid reason for falling behind.
Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status, if your financial hardship prevents you from making payments at all.
Offer in Compromise (OIC), if you meet specific criteria to settle for less than the total owed.
Michelle can evaluate your case and determine which solution best fits your needs before recommending a plan.
The Confidence of Working with a Professional
Dealing with the IRS alone can be intimidating. With so many forms, deadlines, and legal terms, even small mistakes can lead to larger problems. Having an Enrolled Agent (EA) like Michelle Hiller on your side ensures that every step is handled correctly and with your best interests in mind.
At Infinity Resolution, you’ll receive clear guidance, transparent communication, and a trusted advocate who understands both the technical and emotional sides of tax debt.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If you’re struggling to pay off IRS debt, an Installment Agreement could be the fresh start you need. You don’t have to face the IRS alone — professional help can make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful.
Schedule a confidential consultation today with Michelle Hiller, EA and the team at Infinity Resolution at (281) 796-1143 to discuss your tax situation. Together, you can find the right payment plan and a practical path back to peace of mind. Serving Houston and all of Texas