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IRS Problem Resolution

A tax lien isn't a seizure. But it sticks.

A federal tax lien attaches to all your assets and damages your credit. We negotiate subordination (so you can refinance), withdrawal (removes from public record), and release (full satisfaction).

In short

An IRS tax lien is a legal claim against all your current and future property (real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, investments) when you owe unpaid taxes. It does not seize anything — that's a levy — but it damages your credit, blocks refinancing or sale, and stays on file until resolved. We negotiate subordination, withdrawal, or release depending on your situation.

Lien vs. levy

A lien is a legal claim; a levy is an actual taking. The lien attaches to everything you own and everything you acquire while the debt is outstanding. It doesn't move money; it announces a claim.

Four ways out of a lien

  • Discharge — removes the lien from a specific piece of property (so you can sell that asset)
  • Subordination — keeps the lien but moves it behind another creditor (so you can refinance)
  • Withdrawal — removes the lien from public record entirely; available if you enter a qualifying direct-debit installment agreement
  • Release — full removal once the underlying tax debt is paid or settled

Credit and lien recovery

Federal tax liens were removed from most credit reports in 2018 as part of an industry-wide consumer protection change. New liens (post-2018) still hit your credit. Once the lien is withdrawn or released, you can request the credit bureaus update your file — and most do within 30-60 days.

FAQ

Questions we hear about irs tax liens.

I need to sell my house but there's a lien. What can I do?
File for a Certificate of Discharge from the specific property. The IRS releases its claim on the house as long as the sale proceeds first pay the IRS (up to the lien amount). We handle the filing and coordinate with the title company.

Ready for a straight answer on your taxes?
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(561) 278-1199

KDM Accounting

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