If the IRS has filed a tax levy against your property, you’re facing one of the most aggressive collection actions the government can take. A levy allows the IRS to legally seize your assets—freezing your bank account, garnishing your wages, or even taking your car or home. The stress is immense, and the financial damage can be catastrophic. But you don’t have to face this alone. A skilled Omaha tax levy lawyer has the legal tools and negotiation expertise to stop or release an IRS property levy and protect your financial future.
Understanding What a Levy Means for You
A tax levy is different from a lien. A lien is a claim against your property; a levy actually takes it. Once the IRS issues a levy, they can act quickly and without court approval. They can freeze and drain your bank account, often without prior notice. They can order your employer to send a portion of each paycheck directly to the IRS. They can even seize and sell your car, boat, or real estate.
Your home and savings are at immediate risk. Without professional help, you may not even know what property is protected—or how to claim those protections.
How a Tax Levy Lawyer Stops a Levy
An experienced tax levy lawyer brings powerful legal strategies to the fight:
1. Collection Due Process (CDP) Hearing
If you’ve received a Final Notice of Intent to Levy (Letter 1058 or LT11), your lawyer can file a CDP hearing request within 30 days. This single action automatically halts the levy while your case is reviewed. At the hearing, your lawyer can propose an installment agreement, an Offer in Compromise, or prove that the levy would cause economic hardship—all of which can stop the levy permanently.
2. Claiming Exemptions
Even if a levy is already in place, certain income and property are protected by law: Social Security, disability, child support, unemployment benefits, a portion of your wages (based on your filing status and dependents), and essential household goods. Your lawyer will identify which exemptions apply and file the necessary claims to recover seized funds or prevent further seizure.
3. Negotiating a Levy Release
The IRS will release a levy if you enter an installment agreement, an Offer in Compromise (settling for less), or qualify for Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status. Your lawyer negotiates terms you can afford—not what the IRS demands. They also ensure the levy is officially released by the IRS, so your bank and employer receive the proper notification.
4. Expedited Hardship Release
If the levy is causing immediate economic harm—leaving you unable to pay rent, buy food, or cover medical expenses—your lawyer 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
Attempting to stop a levy on your own is risky. Revenue officers are under pressure to maximize collection. They may pressure you into paying more than you can afford or ignore your hardship claims. A single missed deadline can mean losing your right to appeal—and losing your assets. A tax levy lawyer knows the procedures, the exemptions, and the legal arguments that work. They also offer attorney-client privilege, allowing you to speak freely without fear that your words will be used against you.
The Bottom Line
A tax levy threatens your home, your paycheck, and your peace of mind. But you don’t have to face it alone. With skilled legal help, you can stop the seizure, protect your property, and negotiate a fair resolution. The sooner you act, the more options you have.
Facing a tax levy? Contact the no. 1 tax relief firm in Omaha immediately. We’ll stop the seizure, protect your assets, and fight for a fresh start. Your home, savings, and future are worth defending.