in more serious collection cases. A levy allows the government to seize property such as wages, bank funds, and vehicles to recover unpaid taxes. While it is a more aggressive step than a lien, the IRS follows a thorough review process before initiating a levy and typically provides advance notice. In limited cases, the IRS may delay collection activity if a taxpayer is deemed temporarily unable to pay due to hardship. This “Currently Not Collectible” status allows other creditors to be paid first, although tax debt continues to accrue interest and penalties. The IRS may also offer installment plans or accept settlement offers based on ability to pay, providing struggling taxpayers with alternative paths to resolution.
IRS CERTIFICATE OF RELEASE
According to IRS.gov, Section 6325(a) of the Internal Revenue Code directs the IRS to release a federal tax lien within 30 days of when the liability is fully paid or becomes legally unenforceable or the IRS accepts a bond for payment of the liability. When all the liabilities shown on the Notice of Federal Tax Lien are satisfied, the IRS will issue a Certificate of Release of Federal Tax Lien for filing in the same location where the notice of lien was filed. If the IRS hasn’t released the lien within 30 days, you can ask for a Certificate of Release. If you have an immediate or urgent need for a Certificate of Release of Federal Tax Lien, you can visit or call the local IRS office. You can find a list of local offices, their available services, and their hours of operation on www.irs.gov under “Local Contacts.” Be prepared to show proof of payment or other documentation that demonstrates your liability has been satisfied. If there’s an unpaid balance on your liability, you must pay the balance with a certified check, cashier’s check, or acceptable money order before
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