If the IRS has taken money out of your paycheck, you’re no longer in the warning stage of tax collection. The IRS is in enforcement mode!
At ETS Tax Relief, we work with Virginia taxpayers who are shocked to discover that IRS wage garnishment is far more aggressive than most people expect. Unlike other creditors, the IRS does not need a court order, and the garnishment often leaves taxpayers struggling to cover basic living expenses.
Here’s a quick and dirty explanation of how IRS wage garnishment works, why it happens, and what options may be available to stop it.
Difference between IRS Lien and IRS Levy
What Is IRS Wage Garnishment?
IRS wage garnishment occurs when the Internal Revenue Service requires your employer to send a portion of your paycheck directly to the IRS to satisfy unpaid tax debt. This is done through a wage levy.
How IRS Wage Garnishment Is Different From Other Garnishments
Unlike other entities, The IRS does not need a lawsuit or court judgment. The exempt income amount is low, and garnishment continues until the debt is resolved or released.
Why the IRS Garnishes Wages
Wage garnishment usually follows ignored notices, unfiled tax returns, or defaulted payment plans. Wage garnishments aren’t sudden. Typically, the IRS sends several notices before they take action.
How Much of Your Paycheck Can the IRS Take?
The IRS uses exemption tables based on filing status and dependents. For many taxpayers, the exempt amount is far lower than expected. The amount of exempt income is based on your standard deduction and number of dependents, and can be found here in Publication 1494.
Can IRS Wage Garnishment Be Stopped?
Yes, but time is of the essence. Options to stop the garnishment may include an installment agreement, Currently Not Collectible status, Offer in Compromise, or levy release due to hardship. Once an agreement is reached with the IRS to release the levy, it can 1 or 2 pay cycles for it to stop.
How ETS Tax Relief Helps Virginia Taxpayers
ETS Tax Relief is a Virginia-based tax resolution firm helping taxpayers protect income and stop IRS enforcement. If your wages are being garnished or enforcement pending, acting quickly creates more options.
Call ETS Tax Relief at 804-286-3277, or click here to schedule a confidential consultation.
LuSundra Everett, EA is The Home Biz Tax Lady. She is a tax expert located in Chester, VA who will find the right solution for you! As an Enrolled Agent licensed through the Internal Revenue Service, LuSundra is authorized to represent taxpayers in all 50 states against the IRS and your state!
Through her work with ETS Tax Relief, she helps high income non-filers and small-business owners face the IRS with confidence, clarity, and a plan.
When you’re dealing with IRS letters, tax debt, or business tax issues, the right representation makes all the difference. At ETS Tax Relief, we work with individuals and business owners across Virginia to resolve tax problems, prevent future issues, and restore peace of mind.
If you’re ready to put your tax troubles behind you, visit http://www.etstaxrelief.com to learn more about how we can help.
