CTRS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CTRS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Why is understanding taxpayer rights crucial in representation? → Knowing taxpayer rights helps ensure proper treatment and avoid violations.
2. Which IRS Collection Information Statement is used for wage earners and self-employed individuals when requesting Currently Not Collectible status? → Form 433-A
3. What is the user fee for establishing a direct debit installment agreement (DDIA) online? → $31
4. How can taxpayers resolve IRS tax debt through an installment agreement? → It allows taxpayers to pay off debt in smaller, manageable payments.
5. A CTRS practitioner advertises that they can 'guarantee' a specific tax debt reduction for any client. This advertising claim is: → A violation of Circular 230 because guarantees of outcomes are prohibited
6. What is the maximum term for a non-streamlined (financially verified) installment agreement for an individual? → The IRS can grant an IA term up to the remaining CSED period, which can be up to 10 years
7. Why is it essential to stay updated on tax law and regulations? → It ensures that the specialist can provide accurate advice and avoid mistakes.
8. Which duty does a CTRS practitioner owe to future clients when accepting a new engagement? → Duty to check for conflicts of interest before accepting the engagement
9. Why is confidentiality important in tax resolution? → Confidentiality ensures that client information is protected from unauthorized access.
10. What is an IRS Notice of Deficiency? → It is a formal IRS statement outlining an additional amount of tax owed.
11. A practitioner is soliciting clients via direct mail advertising tax resolution services. Under Circular 230, solicitations must: → Be truthful and not misleading, and clearly identify the practitioner's credentials
12. Which IRS forms are required to submit a Doubt as to Collectibility OIC for an individual taxpayer? → Form 656 and Form 433-A (OIC)
13. What is the purpose of the IRS Installment Agreement? → It allows taxpayers to make smaller, manageable payments over time.
14. A Revenue Officer is assigned to a delinquent taxpayer's case. What does this generally indicate? → The case has escalated beyond ACS and requires in-person field collection
15. How does negotiating a reduced tax debt benefit taxpayers? → It reduces the amount of tax debt the taxpayer needs to pay.
16. How does a tax lien impact a taxpayer's ability to resolve tax debt? → Tax liens can be negotiated or removed as part of debt resolution.
17. What is the significance of Form 433-A in tax resolution? → It helps determine eligibility for the Offer in Compromise program.
18. What is the purpose of tax law in tax resolution? → Tax law helps resolve disputes and ensures that tax regulations are followed.
19. During the pendency of an OIC investigation, what happens to the Collection Statute Expiration Date (CSED)? → The CSED is tolled (suspended) for the period the OIC is pending plus 30 days
20. What is the purpose of tax representation during an IRS audit? → It helps protect the taxpayer’s rights and ensures fair treatment during the audit.
21. A CTRS practitioner receives a subpoena for a client's tax records held in the practitioner's file. The practitioner should first: → Notify the client and seek legal guidance before producing records
22. What is the primary IRS unit responsible for collecting delinquent tax debts from individuals and businesses? → Automated Collection System (ACS)
23. What is the role of a tax resolution specialist during an IRS audit? → They represent the taxpayer during audits, ensuring fair treatment.
24. How can a tax resolution specialist assist with negotiating a tax lien removal? → By negotiating the lien's removal based on the taxpayer’s financial situation.
25. What is the maximum period a non-attorney CTRS practitioner is generally required to retain client records after the conclusion of a matter? → 3 years
26. Which assets are generally excluded from the RCP calculation for OIC purposes? → Assets with no equity (fully encumbered by senior secured debt)
27. What is the primary goal of taxpayer advocacy in a resolution process? → To ensure the taxpayer’s case is handled efficiently and fairly.
28. What is the non-refundable application fee for submitting an Offer in Compromise as of recent IRS guidance? → $205
29. Which IRS form is used to request a Collection Due Process hearing? → Form 12153
30. How long does the IRS generally have to accept or reject an OIC before it is deemed accepted by default? → 24 months from the date the IRS received the offer