The Albany Gazette - Your Tax Transcript Could Reveal More Than You Think - Clear Start Tax Explains Hidden IRS Red Flags That Can Trigger Enforcement

IRVINE, CA / ACCESS Newswire / June 13, 2025 / For many taxpayers, the term "IRS transcript" sounds like a dry document meant for accountants or audits. But according to Clear Start Tax, this internal report could be the most important tool in identifying what the IRS knows, what they're watching, and what may be coming next.

Often overlooked or misunderstood, a tax transcript is a line-by-line history of how the IRS sees your account, and it's where red flags, errors, and silent collection activity first appear.

"A lot of people wait for a scary IRS letter in the mail," said the Head of Client Solutions at Clear Start Tax. "But by the time the letter arrives, the IRS may have already made a move. The transcript tells the story before enforcement begins if you know how to read it."

What Is an IRS Tax Transcript - and Why It Matters

An IRS tax transcript is a downloadable record that shows return information, wage reporting, payment history, refund activity, and internal IRS codes tied to collections or audits. Clear Start Tax says it's one of the first documents they pull when reviewing a client's case.

Taxpayers can request their transcript online at irs.gov/transcript or by submitting Form 4506-T. There are several types, but the Account Transcript and Wage & Income Transcript are often the most revealing.

What Red Flags Could Be Hiding Inside

Clear Start Tax warns that IRS systems rely heavily on automation, and transcripts can silently show when a taxpayer's account is being reviewed, flagged, or prepared for enforcement.

Key signs that may appear in a transcript:

• Transaction codes showing levy or lien preparation

• Missing filings or unreported 1099/W-2 income

• Refund holds or offsets due to outstanding balances

• Substitute for Return (SFR) assessments when no return is filed

• Payment reversals or dishonored payments the IRS sees as non-compliance

"We've seen transcripts where the client had no idea they were on track for garnishment," said the Head of Client Solutions at Clear Start Tax. "But the IRS had already processed flags and updated their status behind the scenes."

Errors You Might Not Know Exist

Many clients are shocked to learn that their transcripts contain clerical mistakes, misapplied payments, or unfiled returns they thought were submitted. In some cases, wage data is incorrect, or the IRS has assessed tax based on substitute returns without deductions, inflating the amount owed.

These inaccuracies can cause enforcement to escalate, even when the taxpayer thought they were compliant.

By answering a few simple questions, taxpayers can find out if they're eligible for the IRS Fresh Start Program and take the first step toward resolving their tax debt.

How Clear Start Tax Uses Transcripts to Protect Clients

Clear Start Tax begins every resolution case with a full transcript audit, reviewing IRS activity, matching it with client documentation, and identifying risks before they lead to liens or levies. This proactive approach allows their team to:

• Flag inaccurate balances or dates

• Correct reporting issues and reestablish compliance

• Identify program eligibility (like Fresh Start or hardship status)

• Halt enforcement by addressing problems early

About Clear Start Tax

Clear Start Tax is a full-service tax liability resolution firm that serves taxpayers throughout the United States. The company specializes in assisting individuals and businesses with a wide range of IRS and state tax issues, including back taxes, wage garnishment relief, IRS appeals, and offers in compromise. Clear Start Tax helps taxpayers apply for the IRS Fresh Start Program, providing expert guidance in tax resolution. Fully accredited and A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau, the firm's unique approach and commitment to long-term client success distinguish it as a leader in the tax resolution industry.

Need Help With Back Taxes?

Click the link below:
https://clearstarttax.com/qualifytoday/
(888) 710-3533

Contact Information

Clear Start Tax
Corporate Communications Department
[email protected]
(949) 535-1627

SOURCE: Clear Start Tax

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

(W.Walker--TAG)