What to Do When a Levy Is Served

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not take the subject of back taxes lightly, and it has tools at its disposal to ensure the government gets its fair share. IRS levies are served to notify citizens that their wages, bank accounts or property are about to be seized.

Served

• You will likely not find out about a tax levy until you are notified by certified mail stating that the IRS plans to seize your assets in 30 days. If it levies your wages, then your employer will also be notified.

Contact the IRS

• If you wish to stop the levy, contact the IRS and pay off your back taxes. Paying off the taxes will eliminate the need for the levy. If you cannot pay the whole amount, you may be able to work out a payment arrangement, but it likely will not stop the levy until several regular payments have been made.

Working with a Lawyer

• If you cannot pay the back taxes and still want to try to stop the levy, a lawyer specializing in tax law will help you understand the options that are available to you once you have been served. A lawyer can use the legal system to help lower the amount of taxes owed, reduce penalties and work with the IRS.