We have been making payments to the IRS on the $3k. Now with owing this year, does the IRS ever consolidate the taxes due? We will not be able to make 2 separate payments for these taxes due.
Go to this IRS website for information concerning this issue - <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/reviewing-and-changing-your-payment-plan">https://www.irs.gov/individuals/reviewing-and-changing-your-payment-plan</a>
If you owe each year then you are not paying enough in estimated taxes or you are not having enough money withheld from your paychecks. Check this IRS calculator for your current year withholding. https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-withholding-calculator
At a rough estimate, you should change your withholding at work for 3 less allowances than you are claiming now. If you have more than one job or you are married and you file jointly and your spouse works, lower the number of allowances on the highest-paying job.