A tax levy is one of the most aggressive actions the IRS can take. Your bank account can be frozen, wages garnished, or property seized—often with little warning. If you’ve received a Final Notice of Intent to Levy, you’re likely terrified and wondering if there’s any way to stop it before it’s too late. The answer is yes, but you must act quickly and strategically. As an experienced tax levy lawyer in Phoenix, I’ve helped countless clients halt levies and protect their assets using proven legal strategies. Here’s what you need to know.
The 30‑Day Window That Changes Everything
When the IRS sends you a Final Notice of Intent to Levy (Letter 1058 or LT11), you have only 30 days to request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing. This single action automatically stops the levy while your case is reviewed. Miss this deadline, and the IRS can seize your assets without further warning.
Your lawyer will file the CDP request immediately, ensuring the levy is halted and buying you precious time to build a resolution strategy.
Use the CDP Hearing to Propose a Resolution
The CDP hearing isn’t just a delay; it’s an opportunity to negotiate a permanent solution. Your attorney can propose one of several legal options:
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Installment Agreement: Spread payments over time. Once approved, the IRS generally releases the levy.
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Offer in Compromise (OIC): Settle your debt for less than you owe. While your OIC is pending, the levy remains suspended.
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Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status: If you truly cannot pay, CNC halts all collection actions, including levies.
Your lawyer will present financial disclosures (Forms 433‑A or 433‑F) and argue your case before an independent IRS Appeals Officer, who has the authority to override the revenue officer’s collection decision.
Claim Exemptions Even After a Levy
If the IRS has already levied your bank account or wages, all is not lost. Certain assets are protected by law:
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A portion of your wages (based on your filing status and dependents)
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Social Security, disability, and unemployment benefits
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Child support payments
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Essential household goods and tools of your trade
Your lawyer can file a claim with the IRS and your bank to have these funds returned. For a wage garnishment, we submit Form 668‑W to your employer to assert your protected earnings.
Request an Expedited Levy Release for Hardship
If the levy is causing immediate economic harm—for example, leaving you unable to pay rent, buy food, or cover medical expenses—your attorney can request an expedited levy release based on economic hardship. The IRS has 24 hours to respond to bank levy hardship claims and 72 hours for wage garnishments.
Why You Need a Lawyer Now
Time is your enemy. Every day you delay, penalties and interest grow, and the IRS moves closer to seizing your assets. A tax levy lawyer can:
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File the CDP request correctly and on time
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Prepare financial disclosures that withstand IRS scrutiny
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Negotiate the best resolution (installment agreement, OIC, or CNC)
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Claim exemptions and appeal wrongful levies
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Stop the harassment – all communication goes through us
Don’t Wait – Protect Your Assets Today
A tax levy is not the end of the road. With the right legal strategy, you can stop it fast, protect your bank account and wages, and negotiate a fresh start. The first step is a free, confidential consultation with an experienced tax levy lawyer.
The IRS is ready to seize your assets. Are you ready to fight back? Contact an experienced tax relief attorney in Phoenix today – let’s put a stop to the levy and get you back on solid ground.