Bankruptcy Services

Bankruptcy isn’t about failure—it’s about getting breathing room when everything feels like it’s closing in. If you’re drowning in tax debt, facing foreclosure, wage garnishments, or even lawsuits, you’re not out of options. In fact, choosing bankruptcy for tax debt could be the path forward you didn’t know existed.

Depending on your situation, Chapter 7 can discharge certain debts and give you a clean slate, while Chapter 13 allows you to reorganize what you owe—including some tax debt—into a payment plan that actually works for your life. Often, that means lower payments, reduced or no interest, and protection from ongoing collection efforts.

Bankruptcy can immediately stop:

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IRS collections

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Foreclosure proceedings

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Wage garnishments

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Lawsuits and creditor harassment

We know how overwhelming choosing bankruptcy for tax debt can be—which is why we don’t treat your case like just another file. We take the time to understand your financial picture, then walk you through your options with clarity. Not every bankruptcy case is the same—and your best results come from a personalized, strategic approach.

Bankruptcy Options

Facing foreclosure, garnishments, or bank levies? Bankruptcy could be the solution to giving you breathing room and a chance to rebuild.

Chapter 7

At Thinking Outside the Box Law Inc. we work with people who are ready to break free from crushing debt and finally breathe again.

Chapter 11

Stop collections, protect your assets, and restructure what you owe through the power of Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Chapter 13

When you’re behind on bills, facing foreclosure, or being hounded by creditors, it’s easy to feel stuck: lose everything or stay buried under debt.

What Is A Notice Of Federal Tax Lien, And Can It Cost DuPage Taxpayers Their Jobs?

Key TakeawaysFederal law protects you from being fired because of an IRS wage levy. A tax levy takes from your wages. A federal tax lien secures the IRS’s claim against your property. A wage levy can still create workplace tension and cash flow problems,...

Can My Tax Refund Be Garnished? Answers from a Trusted DuPage Tax Pro

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Help For DuPage Taxpayers: I Haven’t Filed Taxes In Years, What Do I Do?

Key TakeawaysIf you haven’t filed in years, penalties and interest continue to build, and the IRS may eventually file a return for you using the income information they have. Getting back into good standing means filing the last six years of returns, though some...

DuPage Taxpayer Rights: What If I Can’t Pay How Much I Owe The IRS?

Key TakeawaysThe IRS cannot take money you need for basic living expenses if doing so creates economic hardship You have the right to force the IRS to consider your actual financial reality There are legal resolutions that can stop collections, even if the...

How to Choose a Tax Advisor For DuPage Taxpayers With IRS Problems

Key TakeawaysAvoid preparers who promise large refunds or charge fees based on a percentage of your refund Verify credentials and representation rights. Only CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys can represent you in all IRS matters Confirm they have a...

DuPage Taxpayer Rights: Can the IRS Look At Your Bank Account?

Key TakeawaysThe IRS does not automatically see your bank transactions or daily spending To get bank records, they must show a legitimate, documented tax purpose and follow notice rules You usually get a 45-day warning before the IRS contacts your...

Can You Dispute A Tax Bill? Two Rights DuPage Taxpayers Have This Tax Season

Key TakeawaysYes, you can dispute a tax bill—a notice from the IRS is often a proposal, not a final verdict. The IRS routinely issues bills based on incomplete or incorrect information, especially when returns are missing or rushed. You have the legal right...

2025 Taxes for DuPage Business Owners Who Owe the IRS

Key TakeawaysResolving old tax issues depends on how you handle your 2025 taxes Filing your 2025 return on time matters even if you can’t pay the full balance For self-employed taxpayers, estimated payments are part of staying current on 2025...

Tax Liens and Bankruptcy: Can Federal Taxes Be Discharged in Bankruptcy If a Tax Lien Survives?

Many people are surprised to learn that bankruptcy can sometimes wipe out federal income taxes — but not always. One of the most common points of confusion involves tax liens and dischargeability. Clients often ask: “If the IRS tax lien survives bankruptcy anyway, why...

What Happens After DuPage Taxpayers Appeal IRS Decisions?

Key TakeawaysThe IRS has launched an IRS Post-Appeals Mediation (PAM) pilot program for certain unresolved Appeals cases. PAM allows a facilitated negotiation with a neutral mediator and a new Appeals team. Not every case qualifies, but the program shows...

How You’re Missing Critical Tax Relief

Here’s the hard truth: when you’re behind on taxes or buried in debt, the IRS is not going to help you find ways to reduce what you owe. In fact, they’re counting on your confusion and fear to keep you paying more than you should.

The good news? Even if you’re years behind, we can help you uncover legal, powerful ways to reduce or resolve your tax debt. From reconstructing missing records and filing back tax returns to negotiating settlements and discharging eligible taxes through bankruptcy, we know how to protect your rights—and your wallet.

Don’t leave money on the table or let fear keep you stuck. Take back control with our proven tax resolution strategies.

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