I know this is a very in depth question which is why I decided to start here for some advice. I will try to give basic info to assist with the answer.

I live in California, had a home foreclosure in 2010, I am married and both my wife and I have had a short stint on unemployment other than that we have both had regular jobs, basic W2 withholdings. Through a couple of moves we have misplaced some W2's from 2010 - 2014. IRS has held my payroll withholdings to "single and 1" for 2016 and 2017, so I believe I have some good money built up in my favor, both state and fed. State of CA is now trying to attach my payroll to collect $3K.

I would like to make this right but I can not afford a legal team, $1K - $10K is just not possible. Can I just accept what IRS is saying I owe? Should I do that? AND, how do I go back and file those years?

I appreciate your time and advice.

Eric