A tax lien is a legal claim by a government authority, such as the IRS, against a taxpayer’s property due to unpaid tax debts. This claim acts as a security for the government, ensuring the taxpayer’s obligation is eventually fulfilled. Tax liens […]
Top 5 Tips to Avoid an IRS Audit in 2025
In 2025, the IRS is facing a shifting landscape. Although enforcement funding surged in 2022, recent federal budget negotiations, specifically the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Act cuts, have reduced that long-term funding outlook. But don’t let that fool you into thinking […]
Can the IRS Levy a Joint Bank Account?
When it comes to IRS collection efforts, few actions feel more intrusive than a bank account levy. If you share a bank account with a spouse who owes tax debt, it’s only natural to worry: Can the IRS levy a joint bank […]
Back Taxes and Divorce: Who Pays What?
Divorce often accompanies financial complications, and one of the most overlooked but critical issues is back taxes. Many divorcing couples are surprised to learn how complex and persistent IRS debt can be, especially when it’s tied to years of joint tax filings. […]
How Long Can My State Collect Back Taxes?
Owing back taxes is never a pleasant situation, but it’s even more stressful when you’re unsure how long the state has to collect those taxes. While the IRS has fairly standardized time limits, the rules for state-level tax collection vary widely—and in […]
State Tax Liens vs. IRS Tax Liens: What’s the Difference?
Understanding tax liens is essential for anyone who owes taxes, whether to the federal government or a state taxing authority. A lien can have serious implications for your finances and even your ability to sell or refinance property. While the term “tax […]
When Does the IRS Pursue Criminal Charges?
Tax evasion and tax fraud are federal crimes. Both involve the willful attempt to either evade the assessment or the payment of taxes. But at what point does the IRS pursue criminal charges for these actions? What consequences are included in the […]
Can I Sell My House if I Owe Back Taxes?
Owing back taxes to the IRS can be stressful enough on its own—but if you’re also trying to sell your home, the situation might feel even more overwhelming. You may be wondering: Can I legally sell my house if I owe the […]
I Received a Tax Notice for a Business I Don’t Own. Now What?
It’s a stressful moment that can stop you in your tracks: a letter from the IRS or your state’s tax agency arrives in your mailbox, and it claims you owe taxes for a business you’ve never operated. Whether the letter references unpaid […]
How Does the IRS Collections Process Work?
The IRS is responsible for collecting taxes owed to the United States government. When taxpayers fail to pay their taxes on time, the IRS initiates a collections process to recover the outstanding debt. This process can be complex and intimidating for those […]