If you’re behind on your taxes, it’s natural to worry about the worst-case scenario: Can the IRS actually take your home?
The short answer is yes—but it’s far more complicated than many people realize.
While IRS property seizures do happen, they are typically a last resort after numerous warnings and opportunities to resolve the debt. At TaxWorx, LLC, we specialize in helping individuals and businesses in the Fort Worth area resolve IRS problems and avoid enforced collection actions like home seizure. Here’s what you need to know—and how we can help.
What Is an IRS Property Seizure?
An IRS property seizure is a legal action in which the IRS takes physical assets—such as homes, vehicles, or business equipment—to satisfy a tax debt. It’s one of the most aggressive enforcement tools the IRS has, and it’s usually only used after repeated failures by the taxpayer to respond or cooperate.
Before your home can be seized, the IRS must follow a very specific process:
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Assessment of Tax Liability – The IRS calculates what you owe and sends a bill.
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Demand for Payment – You receive a formal Notice and Demand for Payment.
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Final Notice of Intent to Levy – If ignored, the IRS sends a Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing (usually by certified mail).
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30-Day Waiting Period – You have 30 days to act: respond, appeal, or set up a payment plan.
Only after all of these steps—and if you still take no action—can the IRS legally seize your property.
Is Your Home Really at Risk?
Yes, but let’s be clear: IRS home seizures are rare, especially for primary residences. That said, they do happen under certain conditions:
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The tax debt is significant.
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You’ve ignored repeated notices or failed to respond.
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You haven’t attempted to resolve the issue.
Even in those cases, the IRS must get approval from a federal court before seizing a personal residence, adding another layer of protection.
Still, every year the IRS conducts around 100 property seizures—including homes. So while it’s not common, it’s not impossible either.
How TaxWorx Can Help Protect Your Home
At TaxWorx, LLC, our founder Michael Dunlap, CPA has over 35 years of experience helping taxpayers resolve complex IRS issues. We know how the IRS operates—and more importantly, how to stop aggressive collection efforts before they start.
Here’s how we can help you:
✅ Stop the Process Before It Starts
We’ll step in immediately to communicate with the IRS, giving you the time and space to explore your options and avoid seizure.
✅ Negotiate Payment Options
We can help you qualify for and set up:
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Installment Agreements – Manageable monthly payments.
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Offer in Compromise (OIC) – Settle your debt for less than what you owe.
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Currently Not Collectible (CNC) – Temporarily delay collection if you’re in financial hardship.
✅ File an Appeal
If you’ve received a Final Notice of Intent to Levy, you have the right to a hearing. We’ll build your case and represent you every step of the way.
✅ Seek a Lien Discharge or Subordination
If your home has a federal tax lien, we may be able to:
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Request a lien discharge (removal),
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Or subordinate the lien (reorder priorities) to allow a refinance or sale.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Once the IRS begins the seizure process, stopping it becomes much more difficult. If you’re behind on taxes and concerned about protecting your home, now is the time to take action.
At TaxWorx, LLC in Fort Worth, we offer free consultations and custom tax resolution strategies tailored to your situation. Whether you’re dealing with liens, levies, or just trying to avoid enforcement altogether, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us today at (817) 241-4120 and let’s take the first step toward protecting what matters most—your home and your future.
