What Forms Are Required for an IRS Offer in Compromise? (Oklahoma CPA Guide)

Filing an IRS Offer in Compromise (OIC) can be one of the most powerful ways to settle your tax debt for less — but it’s also one of the most paperwork-heavy.
Missing even one form can cause delays, rejection, or worse: IRS collections continuing while you wait.
At Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC, we help Oklahoma clients file successful, complete Offer in Compromise packages the first time. In this guide, we’ll show you which forms are required, how they work, and what the IRS expects in 2025.
The 3 Required Forms for Most OIC Submissions
You’ll typically need the following:
1. IRS Form 433-A (OIC)
This is the financial disclosure form for individuals, including self-employed taxpayers. It shows:
- Income and expenses
- Assets and debts
- Equity in vehicles, property, bank accounts, and more
Learn more in our full IRS Form 433-A (OIC) guide for Oklahoma taxpayers.
2. IRS Form 656
This is the actual offer form where you propose a settlement amount.
It includes:
- Tax periods and types you’re settling
- Payment method (lump sum or short-term plan)
- Whether you qualify for the Low-Income Certification
Most offers will not be considered without Form 656 signed and submitted with payment.
3. $205 Application Fee + Initial Payment
Unless you qualify for Low-Income Certification (based on household size and income), you’ll need to send:
- $205 nonrefundable application fee
- 20% down if using lump sum method
- First monthly payment if proposing a short-term plan
Use our OIC Calculator to estimate what your payment should look like.
Additional Forms You May Need (Depending on Your Case)
▪️ IRS Form 433-B (OIC)
Used if you are submitting an offer on behalf of a business.
See our full post on IRS Form 433-B and payroll tax debt in Oklahoma.
▪️ IRS Form 2848 (Power of Attorney)
Required if you want a CPA or tax professional to represent you.
At Boulanger CPA, we file this the same day we take your case.
▪️ IRS Form 656-L (Doubt as to Liability Offer)
Used only if you disagree with the underlying tax debt (not based on ability to pay).
This is rare and must be handled carefully.
Common Mistakes That Cause OIC Delays
Even when the right forms are submitted, the most common mistakes we see are:
- Missing signatures
- Outdated financial info (older than 6 months)
- Omitting required attachments (bank statements, pay stubs, etc.)
- Failing to send initial payment or application fee
- Using the wrong forms (e.g., 433-A instead of 433-A (OIC))
Let us help you get it right the first time with a CPA-reviewed OIC submission.
How We Help Oklahoma Clients Get It Right
When you work with Boulanger CPA, you get:
- A local CPA-led firm who understands Oklahoma IRS collection standards
- Same-day Power of Attorney filing
- Help preparing all forms and financial disclosures
- Direct contact with the IRS Offer Examiner
- Flat-fee pricing — no commissions, no hidden costs
Read our Offer in Compromise Myths blog to see why most OICs fail.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about settling your IRS debt, filing an Offer in Compromise is a strong option — but only if the paperwork is complete, accurate, and supported by real financials.
Want help?
Use our Offer in Compromise Calculator or schedule a strategy call to get started.
📞 Call
(405) 384-4900
🗓️
Schedule Your Free Strategy Call
🧠 FAQ – IRS Offer in Compromise Forms
What is the difference between Form 433-A (OIC) and 433-A?
Form 433-A (OIC) is specifically designed for Offer in Compromise submissions. The regular 433-A is used in general collections. Don’t mix them up.
Do I need to submit all forms at once?
Yes. The IRS requires your full OIC package at the same time, including financials, Form 656, payment, and documentation.
Can I file Form 656 without a CPA?
Yes, but mistakes can delay or kill your offer. A CPA helps ensure everything is accurate and complete on the first submission.
What happens if I leave out a document?
The IRS may return your entire OIC as “not processable” and resume collections while you fix it. We help prevent that.
✍️ About the Author
Marc Boulanger, CPA, is the founder of Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC, a CPA firm based in Oklahoma City, OK.
Marc is the author of Oklahoma Taxpayers' Guide: Taking a Stand Against the IRS and has resolved hundreds of complex federal and state tax cases.
With over a decade of experience in IRS and OTC representation, Marc helps Oklahomans navigate high-stakes tax problems with clear strategy and calm expertise.
He is a Certified Tax Representation Consultant and a member of the American Society of Tax Problem Solvers (ASTPS).
📍 Office: Oklahoma City, OK | 📞 (405) 384-4900 | 🌐 www.oklahomacity.cpa