• If you owe the IRS unpaid taxes, they can take away your car if they decide that asset seizure is in their best interest. The process typically begins with the IRS issuing a Final Notice of Intent to Levy, which includes instructions on your right to appeal and/or request a collection hearing within 30 days. If these options are not exercised, the IRS typically proceeds to issue an actual levy notice for the car or other assets and could use this money to offset any past-due taxes and penalties.
• In order to protect yourself from the potential seizure of assets by the IRS, it's essential to have all of the necessary facts on hand and consult a knowledgeable legal representative familiar with liabilities associated with unpaid tax debt.
An asset seizure happens when the IRS exercises its authority to take away a person’s money or property as a means to pay off a tax bill. This can be done at any time by IRS officers and they will seize whatever assets they feel are necessary - typically this includes bank accounts, stocks and bonds, actual physical property, automobiles, precious metals, and other movable items of value.
If a person owes taxes and comes up with an IRS repayment agreement but fails to adhere to its terms then the IRS may immediately start the process of asset seizure. It is best to work out a payment plan with IRS before financial hardships become too great, as asset seizures are one of the most powerful tools of collection in their arsenal.
Asset seizure is a very real threat when IRS tax debt remains unpaid. Thankfully, there are steps that can be taken to avoid IRS-enforced asset seizure such as:
Working out a realistic and affordable payment plan with the IRS is essential to prevent any potential seizures from taking place.
Consulting with an experienced professional who understands the process of asset seizure can help in understanding your rights and creating strategies to protect against them.
It is important not to transfer assets, such as property, to family members or friends in an attempt to avoid seizure. The IRS may consider this a fraudulent transfer of assets and can still come after them despite the transfer.
Open communication with the IRS is key throughout the entire process. If any changes occur in your financial situation, be sure to inform the IRS of any changes.
Filing any past-due returns can also help protect you from asset seizure. The IRS will often accept payment plans for any back taxes owed, so having them aware of all the details regarding your financial situation is key to getting a reasonable arrangement.
If at all possible, pay the full amount of past-due tax liabilities as soon as possible. This is the surest way to remain in control of your finances and keep asset seizure from taking place.
For more detailed information about asset seizure, consult a lawyer or tax professional who can help you navigate the process and protect your rights. With the right knowledge and guidance, it is possible to take the necessary steps to avoid having your car taken, or any other assets seized, by the IRS.
• When it comes to IRS seizures, many people assume their home is the only property at risk. However, the IRS also has the power to seize cars -- or any vehicle worth more than $5,000. Depending on your circumstances and federally defined policies, the IRS can seize automobiles owned by taxpayers who owe a delinquent debt, haven't filed federal returns for multiple years, or have ignored court orders related to an unpaid amount due. If this happens to you, the IRS will usually notify you before they take possession of your car so you can make arrangements beforehand.
• In most cases, an IRS field officer is responsible for seizing property from taxpayers in debt and takes custody of vehicles with back taxes owed unless there are valid mitigating factors presented by the owner.
After your car is seized by the IRS, the agency normally holds it for auction to help pay off your debt. The proceeds of the sale will be applied to any balance you owe in taxes. Before the vehicle is released for sale, the IRS may grant you a period to resolve the issue before it is sold at auction.
Typically, if you receive a Notice from the IRS that your car will be seized and sold, they will schedule a time and place during which your assets will be taken. It is important to remember that in some cases, auctions are open to everyone and vehicles may sell below market value; as such, make sure to inform yourself of all information regarding potential auctions of your seized property.
If you have had your car seized by the IRS, you're likely wondering how to get it back. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to reclaim your vehicle.
It’s important to note that taxpayers should always consult with a qualified tax professional when dealing with IRS penalties and/or interests in order to determine their eligibility for First-time Penalty Abatement or any other program.
While the IRS can put a levy on your car if you owe taxes, there are many steps and notification processes that must take place before they can legally do so. If you have received notice from the IRS that they intend to levy your vehicle, it is important to act quickly to protect your assets. An experienced tax attorney can help you understand your rights and options under the law, and guide you through the process of resolving your tax debt.