Understanding IRS Tax Liens — And How a Tax Attorney Can Help You Remove Them

Rona Law Firm
Jul 25
3 min read

If you’ve received a notice from the IRS about a tax lien, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. A tax lien is the government’s legal claim against your property when you fail to pay a tax debt. It can affect your credit, limit your ability to sell or refinance property, and create long-term financial stress. The good news? You don’t have to face it alone.

As a tax attorney experienced in resolving IRS issues, I help individuals and business owners protect their property and remove tax liens through legal strategies tailored to their specific situation.

What Is an IRS Tax Lien?

An IRS tax lien is a public record that attaches to your:

Home
Car
Business assets
Bank accounts
Future income

It gives the IRS a legal right to your property and may significantly impact your ability to secure financing or transfer ownership of assets.

When Does the IRS File a Lien?

The IRS will generally file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien (NFTL) after:

They assess your tax debt
They send a bill (Notice and Demand for Payment)
You fail to pay in full within 10 days

Once filed, the lien becomes a public record and can affect nearly every aspect of your financial life.

Why IRS Tax Liens Matter

Credit Issues – Although tax liens no longer appear on some credit reports, lenders can still find them in public records.
Asset Restrictions – Selling or refinancing property becomes more difficult with a lien attached.
Business Risks – If you’re self-employed or operate a business, a lien may impact client relationships and access to funding.

How I Help Clients Remove IRS Tax Liens

As a tax attorney, I apply several legal strategies to resolve and remove IRS tax liens effectively and efficiently.

1. Lien Withdrawal

A lien may be withdrawn if:

You’re in a qualifying Direct Debit Installment Agreement
The lien was filed in error
Withdrawal will improve your ability to repay the tax debt

A withdrawal removes the public record of the lien, helping to restore your financial standing.

2. Lien Subordination

This doesn’t remove the lien, but allows other creditors to take priority. It can help you refinance or sell property, opening up financial options that would otherwise be blocked.

3. Lien Discharge

In specific cases, we can apply to have the lien removed from a particular asset, such as a home, even if the lien remains on other property.

4. Offer in Compromise

If you qualify, we may settle your debt for less than the full amount owed. Once the offer is accepted and satisfied, the lien can be released.

5. Payment Plans and Resolution

If you’re placed on an Installment Agreement or receive Currently Not Collectible status, I can help you request the IRS lift the lien once you're in compliance.

Why Work with a Tax Attorney?

Unlike tax resolution companies, a licensed tax attorney can:

Legally represent you before the IRS
Customize your resolution based on your full legal and financial profile
Protect your rights at every step of the process

I provide honest, strategic guidance to resolve your lien and help you move forward with confidence.

Take Control of Your Tax Situation

If you've received a Notice of Federal Tax Lien, time is critical. The sooner we address it, the more options you may have to protect your assets and credit.

Schedule a free consultation today to find the best path to remove your IRS tax lien and get the legal support you deserve. Call now at 818.964.1829 or email us at info@ronalawfirm.com.