The government has put a tax lien on me. How can I appeal?

When you owe the IRS back taxes, plus interest and fees, the federal government can place a tax lien against you.  This essentially means that the government now holds a right to seize your property and income until that tax debt is paid in full.   

You may feel that you received such a tax lien wrongfully, and you want to appeal the decision.  Fortunately, appealing a federal tax lien is possible, but you will need to request a Collection Due Process hearing with the Office of Appeals to make your case. You can argue one of the following when appealing your tax lien: 

• You paid your tax bill in full before the federal tax lien was issued.  Of course you will have to prove that you paid this bill.

• You were in the process of bankruptcy when the tax lien was issued.  By law, a “stay” is placed on all collection proceedings, including federal tax liens, when you file for bankruptcy.

• The IRS made procedural mistake when it assessed your case.  If you are not notified in writing, or if you do not have certain timeframes to respond, these can amount to procedural errors and offer a basis for appeal.

• The IRS’ statute of limitations expired before the lien was placed.  After particular periods of time, the IRS has no more claim to your property for back taxes.

You may wish to hire a lawyer to help you with your appeal in order to have the best chance of success.