An IRS LT11 Notice is a formal warning that the IRS intends to levy your wages, bank accounts, or personal property because of unpaid taxes. It gives you 30 days to take action, either by paying the amount owed or filing an appeal. Ignoring this notice can cause serious financial consequences, including wage garnishments or asset seizures.

It’s crucial to address IRS notices promptly to protect your finances and avoid escalating penalties or interest charges.

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Ever open your mail and find a letter that makes your heart skip a beat? 😨 That’s what happens when you get an LT11 notice from the IRS. ⏩ It means they’re serious about collecting a tax debt, and they can take money directly from your bank account, paycheck, or even your entire 1099 check. ✅ Don’t panic! You have options. The most important step is to file an appeal immediately. 📊 This will stop collection activity and give you the right to challenge the IRS in Tax Court. 📈 Don’t ignore this notice! It’s critical to act within 30 days. 📆 If you or someone you know is facing this situation, share this post and let them know they’re not alone! 🤝 #IRS #taxcourt #financialadvice

♬ original sound – Alyssa Whatley ⚖️ Tax Attorney

Your First Steps After Receiving an IRS LT11 Notice

Step 1: Review the Notice Thoroughly: Carefully read the LT11 notice to understand exactly what the IRS is asking. Confirm the amount owed and check if any prior communications were missed. Ensure all the details are correct, as any errors can affect your next steps.

Step 2: Mark the 30-Day Deadline: You have 30 days from the date on the letter to act. Mark this deadline immediately on your calendar. If you fail to respond within this window, the IRS will begin levying your wages or seizing assets.

Step 3: Determine Your Payment Options: If you can, paying the full amount is the fastest way to resolve the issue. However, if this isn’t possible, look into alternative resolution options like a payment plan, currently non-collectible status, or an Offer in Compromise.

Step 4: File an Appeal (if necessary): If you disagree with the IRS’s decision or need more time to sort out your finances, you can file an appeal within the 30-day window. Filing a timely appeal pauses the collection process while your case is reviewed. Keep in mind, the appeal must be filed properly and on time.

Avoid These Costly Mistakes After Receiving an IRS LT11 Notice

• Ignoring the Notice or Assuming It’s Not Urgent: One of the biggest mistakes people make is ignoring the LT11 Notice or not realizing how urgent it is. The IRS isn’t just sending a reminder; they are giving you a final warning before taking serious action, such as garnishing wages or seizing assets. Ignoring it only makes the situation worse, leading to harsher penalties or even legal action.
• Failing to Respond Within the 30-Day Window: The LT11 Notice provides a strict 30-day window to act—30 days from the date noted on the letter, not from the date you received the letter. Many people overlook this deadline, either because they don’t fully understand the urgency or assume they have more time. Failing to respond within this timeframe means the IRS can begin levying your assets without any further warning. Once the deadline passes, your options become much more limited, and the process becomes harder to reverse.
• Attempting to Resolve the Matter Alone Without Legal Guidance: Another common mistake is trying to handle the situation with no legal guidance. The IRS collection process is complex, and while it might seem like you can work it out yourself, you could end up making decisions that don’t benefit you long-term. Without a lawyer, you may not fully understand your rights or the best strategies for negotiating a payment plan or reducing penalties. A lawyer will ensure you don’t make costly errors that could result in more financial strain.
• Misunderstanding Payment Options or the Appeal Process: Many people misinterpret their options for paying off the balance or filing an appeal. They might not know they can set up an installment agreement or negotiate a settlement through an Offer in Compromise. Others may believe they can file an appeal without fully understanding the correct process, leading to missed opportunities or rejected appeals. Missteps in either payment plans or appeals can cause delays, increase penalties, and ultimately result in a levy.

Why Work with a Tax Lawyer

 When you receive an IRS LT11 Notice, it’s essential to understand the consequences and take action quickly. A tax lawyer can help you break down the complex language of the notice and explain how inaction could lead to wage garnishments or asset seizures. Ignoring the notice can escalate penalties, but a lawyer will make sure you know all your options and the steps to take.

Navigating the IRS collection process isn’t straightforward. Whether you’re considering paying in full, setting up an installment plan, or exploring an Offer in Compromise, a tax lawyer can assess your financial situation and recommend the best path. They understand the rules and deadlines, ensuring you don’t face additional penalties or delays.

Having a lawyer also means you don’t have to negotiate with the IRS yourself, which can feel overwhelming. Lawyers can often reduce penalties or secure more manageable payment arrangements. Filing an appeal is another option if you disagree with the IRS or need more time. A tax lawyer ensures your appeal is filed correctly and on time, preventing costly mistakes that could hurt your chances. Beyond filing, your lawyer will follow through to make sure the IRS upholds any agreements made during negotiations or appeals.

Perhaps most importantly, a tax lawyer protects your rights. They know the laws and procedures the IRS must follow and will make sure you’re treated fairly. This legal protection minimizes the impact on your finances, giving you a better chance at resolving your tax issues without lasting financial harm.

The long-term benefits of working with a lawyer go beyond the immediate LT11 Notice. By resolving your tax issues now with professional assistance, you prevent further collection actions and avoid future IRS problems. It’s about protecting your financial future while handling your current tax obligations in the most effective way.

Take Action Now

Receiving an IRS LT11 Notice isn’t something you can afford to ignore. Acting quickly is crucial to avoid wage garnishments or asset seizures. A tax lawyer can guide you through the process, helping you understand your options and negotiate with the IRS.

The Law Offices of Alyssa Maloof Whatley can provide the personalized assistance you need to resolve your tax issues and protect your financial future.

Don’t wait—reach out now to get the help you deserve.