In our 35 plus years of history representing people with tax problems, the most frequent question WATAX gets from clients is:
- How do I get my TAX LIEN removed?
Tax liens are filed by the IRS when a person or business has failed to pay taxes. Tax liens are usually filed when the balance due is higher than $10,000.
These liens migrate to your county courthouse and are recorded against any real estate that you might own. Tax liens complicate real estate transactions and employment. They're meant to be a headache, otherwise why would the IRS file them?
Here's five different ways for tax liens to go away:
The tax liens expire.
If you can run out the clock, taxes generally will expire ten years after they are assessed. There are a number of ways that the clock can extend past ten years:
- You file bankruptcy during the 10 years,
- You propose a lesser amount and are rejected, or
- The IRS has you sign a waiver extending the statute of limitations (not very common).
Once you decide to hire Washington Tax Services, we research your record to find out the expiration dates of your back taxes!
You make "a deal" with the IRS.
If you negotiate with the IRS and they agree to it, the lien is removed 45 days after you pay the lower amount. Read more about our favorite tricks for doing tax negotiations.
The taxes are brought below $25,000.
If you can pay the taxes under $25,000, the IRS will remove the lien after you also enter into an installment agreement on the remaining balance. We can set up your agreement and petition to waive penalties.
You get the taxes below $50,000 and enter an installment agreement.
This streamline agreement is for people who have not had a tax lien filed against them yet. (If you already have a lien against you, you won't have it removed.)
The taxes are paid in full.
Why of course :) The IRS lien desk sends a certificate of lien release generally 30 days after they are paid. If you paid a large sum to the IRS, we can help get your penalties refunded. Also if you are paying off a lien thru a home sale or refinance, we can help you get you the lien payoff amount while also getting the lien discharged from the property.
