19/05/2026
Random payments feel productive.
They feel like you’re doing something. But without a formal arrangement in place, the IRS can still levy, still lien, still assign a revenue officer, even if you’ve been sending checks.
Informal payments don’t stop the clock on penalties and interest either. Your balance keeps growing in the background while you’re sending in whatever you can spare.
A real resolution means the IRS formally agrees to terms. Enforcement holds. The balance is locked in. You know exactly what you’re paying and for how long.
That’s a completely different situation than hoping a check here and there keeps them off your back