Is it necessary to hire a tax attorney to find outstanding IRS tax debt?

It is not necessary to hire a tax attorney to find outstanding IRS tax debt. Taxpayers who think they may have outstanding tax debt can contact the agency that offset the payment directly by phone or by filling out a form.

An outstanding IRS tax debt can reduce a taxpayer's federal tax refund, according to the Internal Revenue Service. Depending on an individual's situation, he may be eligible for a tax repayment plan. Options for repaying the outstanding debt include an offer in compromise, an installment agreement or a temporary delay in payment. The Treasury Offset Program can use part or all of the refund to pay any outstanding debt.