Can You Really Get IRS Penalties Removed?
IRS penalties can add up fast, but many taxpayers qualify for relief. This article explains common penalties, available abatement programs, and how a tax attorney can help reduce or remove them.
Yigal Adhami
8/17/20251 min read


One of the most common questions taxpayers ask is whether IRS penalties can be removed. The answer is yes, under the right circumstances. The IRS imposes penalties for late filing, late payment, underpayment of estimated taxes, and more. But there are established programs and defenses that can reduce or eliminate them.
Common IRS Penalties
The IRS assesses penalties for:
Failure to File – not filing your return by the due date.
Failure to Pay – not paying the tax you owe on time.
Accuracy-Related Penalties – underreporting income or overstating deductions.
Estimated Tax Penalties – not paying enough throughout the year.
These penalties can add up quickly, sometimes doubling the original tax owed.
How Penalty Relief Works
The IRS offers relief in several ways:
First-Time Abatement (FTA): If you have a clean compliance history, you may qualify for one-time relief from a penalty.
Reasonable Cause: If you can show that circumstances outside your control (such as illness, natural disaster, or reliance on incorrect professional advice) led to the penalty, the IRS may waive it.
Statutory Exceptions: Certain situations, like serving in a combat zone, automatically qualify for relief.
Why Professional Help Matters
While the IRS has formal programs, in practice penalty abatement is often a negotiation. A tax attorney can:
Review your case to see if you qualify for relief.
Draft a strong reasonable cause statement.
Communicate directly with the IRS on your behalf.
Appeal a denial if necessary.
Bottom Line
IRS penalties are not always set in stone. With the right approach, many taxpayers can reduce or eliminate them.
📞 Contact Adhami Tax Defense today to learn if you qualify for penalty relief and take the first step toward resolving your tax issues.