What a lien means for you
When back taxes go unpaid long enough, the IRS can file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien — a public claim against your real estate, personal property and financial assets that protects the government's interest in what you owe. A lien can affect your ability to sell property, secure financing or maintain business credit until it's resolved.
A lien is different from a levy: a lien secures the government's claim, while a levy actually takes the property or funds. Left unresolved, a lien can lead to more aggressive collection action, including a levy.
How we help release or resolve a lien
- Reviewing your full IRS file to confirm the lien and balance are accurate
- Negotiating a payment arrangement or offer in compromise that satisfies the debt
- Requesting lien withdrawal, release or subordination where you qualify
- Handling all communication with the IRS so you don't have to
Acting early keeps more options open
The sooner a lien is addressed, the more flexibility we typically have in resolving it — before it escalates further or affects a pending sale or loan.
A lien secures the government's claim. Left alone, it rarely stays there.