We tell you what’s fast, what isn’t, and why. Your case timeline in the app shows each step as it happens.
What takes minutes
| Step | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Free estimate | A few minutes |
| Sign-up: identity check, engagement letter, consents, payment | One sitting on your phone |
| Approving our access in your IRS Online Account | Minutes, once you’re signed in |
If your IRS Online Account isn’t set up yet, creating it and verifying your identity with the IRS can take longer. We walk you through it. See IRS authorization.
What takes days or weeks
| Step | Typical time |
|---|---|
| IRS investigation: pulling and reading your records | [TURNAROUND] after your authorization is active |
| Preparing your missing returns | Depends mostly on how quickly you answer questions and upload documents |
| E-filed returns (the current year and two prior years) | Accepted or rejected by the IRS within days of filing |
What depends on the IRS
| Step | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Processing a past-due return | The IRS says about 6 weeks for an accurate return |
| Paper returns for older years | Often months. The Treasury Inspector General found some paper returns with a balance due took over a year to post |
| Payment plans | Often quick once returns have posted |
| Currently Not Collectible and Offers in Compromise | Months, because the IRS reviews your finances. An offer with no decision after two years is treated as accepted |
Why we file before we resolve
Most IRS resolution options, including payment plans and offers, require every required return to be filed first. That’s why we start with your missing years, even when the balance feels more urgent. If a levy is active, we deal with that right away and file in parallel. See urgent help.