While many financially distressed consumers have had success negotiating settlements with credit card companies and other lenders, the issue of tax debt negotiation is quite different. Unlike most unsecured consumer debt, tax debt is governed by federal law. In addition, the Internal Revenue Service has virtually unlimited powers to attempt to collect on past-due taxes, including the right to seize a taxpayer's property and funds if certain conditions are met. When it comes to negotiating credit card settlements, most personal finance advisors suggest that consumers act on their own behalf, rather than seeking out the services of a third-party debt settlement company. However, when it comes to tax debt negotiation, these experts almost always dispense the opposite advice: namely, that it is imperative to seek out the assistance of a qualified attorney who has extensive experience in the area of negotiating tax settlements. If you need help with tax debt, contact an experienced attorney in your community.