Tax professionals say freelancers and independent contractors often underestimate how long unreported income can remain on the IRS's radar.

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / January 2, 2026 / Many independent contractors believe that if several years have passed without hearing from the IRS, past income issues are unlikely to resurface. According to Clear Start Tax, a national tax resolution firm, that assumption can be risky. The IRS has the authority to pursue unreported or underreported 1099 income years after it was earned, depending on how and when the income was reported.

Clear Start Tax explains that the standard statute of limitations typically begins only after a tax return is filed. If a return is never filed, or if income is significantly understated, the IRS may have extended or even unlimited time to assess tax and initiate collections.

"We often see contractors shocked when the IRS raises questions about income from years ago," said a Clear Start Tax spokesperson. "Many don't realize the clock may not have started - or may have been paused - depending on how their returns were handled."

The issue frequently affects freelancers, consultants, and gig workers who received multiple 1099 forms or relied on informal payment methods. In some cases, income mismatches surface when the IRS compares past filings with third-party records or reviews later returns that show higher earnings.

Clear Start Tax notes that once the IRS assesses tax for a prior year, penalties and interest can significantly increase the total balance owed. At that point, contractors may face liens, levies, or garnishments even though the income was earned long ago.

"Time alone doesn't erase exposure," the spokesperson added. "Without proper filings, contractors can remain vulnerable far longer than they expect."

Tax professionals say addressing old filing gaps or correcting past returns can reduce long-term risk and open the door to resolution options before enforcement escalates.

With IRS enforcement efforts increasing, Clear Start Tax encourages contractors to review their filing history and resolve inconsistencies before they trigger IRS action.

"Proactive cleanup is often far less costly than reacting years later," the spokesperson said. "The earlier issues are addressed, the more options taxpayers usually have."

By answering a few simple questions, taxpayers can find out if they're eligible for the IRS Fresh Start Program and take the first step toward resolving their tax debt.

About Clear Start Tax
Clear Start Tax is a national tax resolution firm that helps individuals and businesses resolve IRS and state tax issues, including unfiled returns, back taxes, and collection actions. The firm focuses on educating taxpayers about IRS rules and guiding them toward appropriate relief strategies based on their financial situation.

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Contact Information

Clear Start Tax
Corporate Communications Department
tech@clearstarttax.com
(949) 800-4011

SOURCE: Clear Start Tax