Few things cause more stress than receiving a notice from the IRS. Whether you owe back taxes, have unfiled returns, or are facing potential liens or levies, it can feel intimidating to reach out for help. But taking that first step toward resolution — scheduling a consultation with a tax resolution specialist — is one of the smartest and most empowering decisions you can make.
If you’re anxious about what happens during that first meeting, you’re not alone. Many people fear judgment or assume their situation is too complicated to fix. The truth is, tax professionals have seen it all, and their role is not to criticize but to help you find the most effective path toward financial relief. Here’s what you can expect during your first consultation with a tax resolution specialist at Geaux Tax Resolution, and how it can set you on the road to peace of mind.
A Judgment-Free Conversation About Your Situation
Your initial meeting is designed to be comfortable, confidential, and judgment-free. The goal is to understand your circumstances, not to lecture or blame. During the consultation, your specialist will take time to get to know your specific situation — what type of IRS notices you’ve received, how much you believe you owe, whether your tax returns are current, and any life events or financial hardships that have affected your ability to pay.
It’s an open, honest conversation where you can finally share what’s been weighing on you. The specialist’s goal is to listen, ask clarifying questions, and start building a complete picture of your tax situation. At Geaux Tax Resolution, no problem is too big or too small. Whether your challenge involves personal income tax debt, payroll tax issues, or unfiled returns, you’ll be met with understanding and professionalism from the very beginning.
Reviewing IRS Notices and Your Financial Information
Once your situation is discussed, the next step is to review any correspondence or documents you’ve received from the IRS. Your specialist will examine the letters to determine what stage your case is in and what deadlines may be approaching. Many clients don’t understand the difference between various notices, and that’s completely okay — part of the consultation is helping you interpret what the IRS is communicating and what actions are required.
You may also be asked to share basic financial documents such as recent tax returns, proof of income, expense records, or bank statements. These details give your tax professional the information needed to begin evaluating possible solutions. You don’t need to have everything perfectly organized; bring what you have, and your specialist will help fill in the gaps. Often, they can request missing records directly from the IRS on your behalf.
Understanding Your Financial Picture
After reviewing your documents, your tax resolution specialist will begin analyzing your financial situation. This step is crucial because the IRS bases its decisions on your ability to pay — not just what you owe. Your specialist will assess your income, living expenses, assets, and debts to determine your Reasonable Collection Potential, or RCP. This calculation represents what the IRS believes it can realistically collect from you, and it plays a major role in deciding which tax relief options may apply.
For example, if your income and assets are limited, and paying your full debt would create significant financial hardship, you may qualify for an Offer in Compromise, which allows you to settle for less than you owe. If you have consistent income but simply can’t pay everything at once, an Installment Agreement might be the better choice. And if your financial challenges are temporary — such as a job loss or medical issue — the IRS may place you in Currently Not Collectible status, temporarily pausing collection efforts until your situation improves.
By the end of this stage, you’ll have a clear understanding of where you stand financially and what programs might be available to help you.
Creating a Customized Resolution Plan
Once your tax resolution specialist has a complete picture of your finances, they’ll begin outlining a personalized strategy for resolving your IRS issues. This plan will detail the most effective relief options based on your circumstances, along with a realistic timeline for resolution. Your specialist will explain each step in plain, straightforward language — no confusing tax jargon — so you know exactly what to expect.
They’ll also discuss what needs to happen next, such as filing any missing returns or submitting specific forms to the IRS. You’ll gain an understanding of what the process looks like from start to finish, how much it may cost, and what results you can realistically expect. This is where many clients feel a sense of relief for the first time in years, because they finally have a plan — and a professional team to help execute it.
What Happens After the Consultation
Before your meeting ends, your specialist will review everything you’ve discussed and clarify the next steps. They may begin requesting official IRS transcripts, preparing necessary forms, or collecting additional documentation to support your case. You’ll leave the consultation knowing exactly where things stand and what will happen next.
Many clients describe this moment as a turning point — the moment when the fear and uncertainty start to lift. For the first time, you’re no longer facing the IRS alone. You have someone experienced on your side, guiding you through every step with expertise and compassion.
Conclusion
Meeting with a tax resolution specialist for the first time can feel intimidating, but it’s truly the first step toward peace of mind. You don’t have to understand every IRS notice or know the exact amount you owe before scheduling an appointment. All you need is the willingness to take that first step. From there, your specialist will handle the details, explain your options, and help you move toward resolution — one manageable step at a time.
At Geaux Tax Resolution, we’ve helped countless Louisiana taxpayers navigate stressful IRS situations with confidence and compassion. No matter how complicated your tax issue may seem, we’re here to help you find relief and a clear path forward.
📍 Mandeville Office:
1795 W. Causeway Approach, Suite 102, Mandeville, LA 70471
📞 985-722-1040
📍 Lafayette Office:
3909-L Ambassador Caffery, Suite B, Lafayette, LA 70503
📞 337-420-1040
