What If You Owe the IRS Over $50,000? (Your Options in Oklahoma)
If you owe the IRS more than $50,000, you’re not dealing with a small issue anymore — you’re officially in high-dollar collection territory.
This is when the IRS assigns Revenue Officers, files tax liens, and starts preparing for levy actions if you don’t respond quickly.
At Boulanger CPA, we help Oklahoma taxpayers who owe $50,000, $100,000, or even more settle their IRS debt and avoid aggressive enforcement.
Here are your options when your tax debt is over that critical threshold.
The IRS flags your case as a high-dollar liability, which can trigger:
If you were hoping to "just set up a payment plan online," that option is likely off the table.
When you owe over $50,000, the IRS won’t accept a payment plan unless you submit full financials.
You’ll need to:
We help you structure this correctly to avoid overpaying.
If your financial analysis shows you can’t pay the full amount, the IRS may accept a settlement through the Offer in Compromise program.
This depends on your:
We calculate your Reasonable Collection Potential (RCP) and submit a professional OIC package on your behalf.
In hardship cases, the IRS may agree to temporarily pause collection if you truly can’t pay.
You’ll still owe the money, but the IRS won’t garnish or levy while you’re in CNC.
This is often used for clients with:
If you don’t qualify for an OIC but can’t pay the full balance over time, the IRS may agree to a partial pay agreement.
Owing over $50K and doing nothing can lead to disaster.
The sooner you act, the more control you have over the outcome.
If you owe $50,000 or more, you're not in simple collections anymore.
📞 Call (405) 384-4900
📅 Schedule a free strategy call
We'll negotiate with the IRS, protect your income, and help you take control before the IRS does.
FAQ
What happens if I owe the IRS over $50,000?
Your case is flagged as high-dollar and may be assigned to a Revenue Officer. You’ll need to submit full financials to resolve it.
Can I still qualify for an Offer in Compromise?
Yes, if your financial situation shows limited ability to pay. The IRS will evaluate your income, expenses, and assets.
Will the IRS file a lien if I owe over $50,000?
Most likely. The IRS often files a Notice of Federal Tax Lien on balances over $50K unless you’re actively resolving the case.
Can I set up a payment plan online?
No. Once your balance is over $50,000, online payment plan setup is no longer available. You'll need to apply through the IRS manually or with professional help.
✍️ 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
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