Not everyone who asks for an offer in compromise from the IRS will get one. In fact, your chances might be slim. In 2017, the IRS received 62,000 offers in compromise and accepted only 25,000 of them — that’s a success rate of roughly 40%. The criteria for qualifying are strict.

Can I do an offer in compromise if I own a home?

Most offers in compromise for people who are self-employed are going to include housing, utilities, car ownership, health insurance, current taxes, child and dependent care, etc. Most of these categories on the OIC form are based on local and national standards.

In 2017, the IRS received 62,000 offers in compromise and accepted only 25,000 of them — that’s a success rate of roughly 40%. The criteria for qualifying are strict. Here are three situations the IRS will consider for an offer in compromise.

Where can I get the offer in compromise form?

If you have questions regarding qualifications for an offer in compromise, please call our toll-free number at 1-800-829-1040. You can get forms and publications by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676), by visiting your local IRS office, or at

How to appeal a rejection of an offer in compromise?

If your offer is rejected You may appeal a rejection within 30 days using Request for Appeal of Offer in Compromise, Form 13711 (PDF). The online self-help tool may provide additional assistance on appealing your rejected offer.

What to know about Form 656 L offer in compromise?

INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM 656 L, OFFER IN COMPROMISE (DOUBT AS TO LIABILITY) What you need to know Your Rights as a Taxpayer Each and every taxpayer has a set of fundamental rights they should be aware of when dealing with the IRS. Explore your rights and our obligations to protect them.

Can a offer in compromise be returned by the IRS?

The Offer in Compromise program is not for everyone. If you hire a tax professional to help you file an offer, be sure to check his or her qualifications. The IRS will return any newly filed Offer in Compromise (OIC) application if you have not filed all required tax returns and have not made any required estimated payments.