If you’re dealing with the IRS and they’ve asked you to complete Form 433-A or Form 433-F, you might be feeling overwhelmed. What are they? Why are there two versions? Which one applies to you?
At Back Tax Rescue, we help Georgia taxpayers fill out the correct financial disclosure forms the right way, to avoid overpaying or triggering IRS enforcement. This guide explains the key differences between Form 433-A and 433-F—and how to know which one you need.
📄 What Is an IRS Form 433?
All IRS Form 433 versions are used to gather your financial information for the purpose of:
- Evaluating your ability to pay
- Determining eligibility for a payment plan, Offer in Compromise, or hardship relief
- Deciding whether to pause or escalate collections (like garnishments or levies)
They include details like:
- Income
- Living expenses
- Bank accounts
- Property ownership
- Monthly bills and debts
📌 The information you provide will directly affect whether the IRS approves relief—or comes after your assets.
🔍 IRS Form 433-F: The Short Form
Form 433-F is a streamlined version used mostly for straightforward collection cases.
You’ll typically use Form 433-F if:
- You owe less than $250,000
- You’re a wage earner or retiree
- You’re not self-employed
- You’re setting up a basic Installment Agreement
Form 433-F is often required during phone interviews with IRS collection agents, or when applying for a standard payment plan.
It includes:
- Employment info
- Income and expense estimates
- Bank and asset details
- Loan/credit obligations
Pro: Easier and faster to complete
Con: Less flexible—doesn’t allow you to explain unique financial circumstances
🧾 IRS Form 433-A: The Full Financial Statement
Form 433-A is the detailed, comprehensive version used for:
- Self-employed individuals
- Higher-debt taxpayers (usually over $250,000)
- Those applying for an Offer in Compromise
- Complex financial situations (irregular income, assets, etc.)
Form 433-A breaks down:
- Six months of income history
- Business income/expenses (if applicable)
- Equity in property and vehicles
- Household expenses (with supporting documentation)
It’s often required during in-person audits, revenue officer visits, or when applying for advanced resolution options.
Pro: More thorough and accurate for custom relief
Con: Longer and more invasive—requires extensive documentation
📊 Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Form 433-F | Form 433-A |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2 pages | 6+ pages |
| Best For | Simple cases, payment plans | Complex cases, Offers, hardship |
| Required For | Basic Installment Agreements | Offers in Compromise, business tax |
| Includes Business Info? | No | Yes (self-employed sections) |
| Requires Documentation? | Sometimes | Always |
| Used by Revenue Officers? | Rarely | Frequently |
| Filing Complexity | Moderate | High |
🧠 Choosing the Right Form for Your Situation
You may not have to choose—the IRS tells you which form they want based on your case status and the type of relief you’re requesting.
But in general:
- Use Form 433-F if you’re applying for a basic payment plan under $250,000
- Use Form 433-A if you’re self-employed, owe over $250,000, or seeking an Offer in Compromise
⚠️ Submitting the wrong form—or filling it out incorrectly—can delay your case, increase your debt, or lead to denial of relief.
👨💼 How Back Tax Rescue Helps
These forms can make or break your IRS resolution. We help by:
- Determining the correct version for your situation
- Preparing and submitting Form 433 accurately
- Documenting expenses that qualify under IRS guidelines
- Negotiating directly with the IRS on your behalf
- Preventing collections while your case is reviewed
We’ve helped clients in Sandy Springs, Lilburn, and Union City complete these forms properly—and get approved for payment plans, OICs, or hardship status.
🏠 Real-World Example (Fictionalized)
Carlos in Roswell owed $89,000 in back taxes. He tried filling out Form 433-F himself but overestimated his income and missed key deductions. The IRS offered him a $1,500 monthly payment he couldn’t afford.
We re-filed using the more detailed Form 433-A, included accurate income, deductions, and supporting docs, and got him approved for a $300 monthly plan instead.
📞 Need Help With Form 433-A or 433-F?
Don’t guess your way through these forms—your financial future depends on getting it right. We’ll make sure it’s done accurately, legally, and in your best interest.
📞 Call Back Tax Rescue: 470-699-1187
📧 Email: info@backtaxrescue.com
🗓️ Schedule a Free IRS Form Review Today »
Let’s make sure the IRS sees the full, accurate picture—on your terms.
