1. Put the written scopes beside each other
Ask each provider to describe the tax years, agencies, and accounts included. Identify whether the quote covers investigation, preparation, submission, follow-up, or another defined task. Keep exclusions as visible as the promised work.
A broad statement about solving tax debt is not a complete scope. Ask which facts must be confirmed before the proposed route can be evaluated and what additional work would cost.
2. Find the person behind the company name
Ask who would perform and supervise the work, who would communicate with the IRS, and how claimed credentials can be checked. The IRS explains that practitioners have different representation rights. A company’s marketing name does not answer those questions.
Clarify what authorization is required and when any engagement begins. An introductory call and a signed representation arrangement are different events; an official deadline should never be assumed to be handled simply because a conversation occurred.
3. Separate categories of cost
Request provider fees, any later-stage charges, payment terms, and cancellation terms in writing. Distinguish these from IRS application or arrangement costs. A small initial charge may describe only the first phase rather than the entire engagement.
Avoid comparing only a projected debt reduction. Ask what assumptions support that projection, what happens if the proposed remedy is unavailable, and which alternatives would be considered.
4. Agree on communication and responsibilities
Ask how document requests and progress updates will be handled. Identify a verified contact and secure delivery process for private records. Keep your own copy of the scope, authorizations, and submissions.
Record the next action and its owner after each discussion. A useful proposal should leave you with clear responsibilities and realistic limits, not an unconditional promise about a government decision.
Your working checklist
- Accounts, years, and tasks included
- Named reviewer and representation role
- Provider fees separate from official costs
- Cancellation and additional-work terms
- Next action, responsible person, and official deadline
Keep this checklist with the records it describes. It is an organization resource, not an eligibility calculation or an individualized response to a tax notice.