IRS

How To Stop an IRS Wage Levy Before It Starts

No one wants to receive a notice from the IRS about unpaid taxes. However, if you ignore this issue, you could lose a portion of future paychecks until your debt is paid. Learn how to stop an IRS wage levy so you can resolve this issue before it escalates. 

Understanding IRS Wage Garnishments 

A wage levy, also known as wage garnishment, is a tactic the Internal Revenue Service uses to recover unpaid back taxes. Officials contact a taxpayer’s employer to set up mandated tax debt relief through paychecks. If you’re subject to wage garnishment, your net pay will be lower due to the automatic withdrawal of funds. 

Depending on your financial situation, a wage levy can create more stress and hardships. With a portion of your paycheck going to the IRS, you may not have enough income to support your basic needs. Thankfully, it’s possible to stop an IRS wage levy before it starts, depending on the circumstances. 

Strategies for Avoiding an IRS Wage Levy

You rely on a full paycheck to support your family and can’t afford an IRS wage garnishment. If you’re notified of a possible tax levy against you, be proactive. Consider the following options:

  • Pay your debt: The IRS won’t seize any of your wages if you take care of your unpaid taxes. Determine how much you owe and see if it’s feasible to pay everything in one lump sum.
  • Negotiate with the IRS: Some individuals explore the Offer in Compromise program to reduce the amount of back taxes they owe. Consult a tax attorney for more information about the program’s strict requirements and if it’s the right choice for you. 
  • Enter an installment agreement: The IRS allows some taxpayers to enter payment plans for convenience. Rather than losing your hard-earned wages, you would be responsible for monthly payments. 
  • Inquire about exceptions: You may qualify for the agency’s Currently Not Collectible status if you’re experiencing financial hardships. Under this status, the IRS will pause your debt relief requirements. 
  • Dispute the levy: Some taxpayers are able to stop an IRS wage levy if it stems from an error. A qualified tax attorney could assess the situation and determine if your tax debt is due to a mistake.
  • File for bankruptcy: You could pause your wage garnishment by filing for bankruptcy, though this should be a last-resort option. Going bankrupt can take a long-term toll on your finances and lifestyle. 

What To Do When a Wage Levy Begins

Perhaps you never see any notices from the IRS about your unpaid taxes. You only learn of a wage levy when your paycheck has a significant amount of funds missing without explanation. What can you do?

Typically, taxpayers will continue with wage garnishment until the debt is paid in full. You may be able to release the levy sooner or pause debt collections when you contact the IRS. Explain your financial status and explore other ways that you can pay back taxes without wage garnishment. 

It’s in your interest to work with a tax attorney. Lawyers understand the complexities of tax debt and can explore other ways to address your unpaid taxes. 

Consult a Tax Professional About Your Options

It’s possible to stop an IRS wage levy before it begins. Enlist professional tax help to understand your situation and explore suitable solutions. Contact Levy & Associates, Inc. for personalized tax strategies. 

Our team consists of experienced accountants, former IRS officers, lawyers, and more. With our guidance, you can effectively navigate tax issues and potentially reduce legal and financial consequences. 

Submit our convenient online form or give us a call at 800-TAX-LEVY to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation. 

Contact Levy & Associates for Dependable Tax Audit Services

Levy & Associates is available for free initial consultations. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about the audit process or address any concerns about your specific situation.

There’s never a good time to be audited, and the time-consuming process will take away from your business or family if you try to face it alone. Let us handle and coordinate communication, so you can return to your daily life.