Tax Collection Defense Attorneys in New York, New Jersey & Federal Court

Protecting Individuals and Businesses From Aggressive IRS and State Tax Collection.

When you owe back taxes, the IRS and state tax authorities have broad powers to collect — including garnishing wages, levying bank accounts, seizing property, and placing liens against your home or business. These actions can devastate your financial stability and damage your credit. Fortunately, both the IRS and state tax agencies offer options for resolving tax debt, and an experienced attorney can help you take advantage of them while protecting your rights.

Common Tax Collection Actions

  • Tax Liens: Legal claims filed against your property by the IRS or state tax department.
  • Tax Levies: Seizure of bank accounts, wages, or other assets to satisfy tax debts.
  • Wage Garnishment: Deduction of part of your paycheck directly to the IRS or state tax authority.
  • Seizure of Assets: Homes, vehicles, and business property may be taken in extreme cases.
  • Passport Restrictions: The IRS can certify seriously delinquent tax debts to the State Department, leading to passport denial or revocation.

Tax Collection in New York

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance can:

  • File tax warrants (similar to liens) against individuals and businesses.
  • Freeze bank accounts and seize wages.
  • Suspend state-issued professional licenses for unpaid taxes.
  • Use aggressive collection tactics through its Civil Enforcement Division.

Tax Collection in New Jersey

The New Jersey Division of Taxation enforces collection through:

  • Certificates of Debt (state liens) filed with county clerks.
  • Wage garnishment and bank levies.
  • Asset seizures and forced sales of property.
  • License and permit suspensions for businesses with tax debts.

Federal Tax Collection (IRS)

The IRS has nationwide authority to collect unpaid taxes:

  • Liens & Levies: Automatic legal claims and seizures.
  • Offset Programs: Intercepting tax refunds, Social Security payments, or other federal benefits.
  • Revenue Officers: Assigned to high-balance or complex cases, with broad investigative powers.
  • Criminal Referral: If fraud or willful evasion is suspected, cases can escalate to IRS Criminal Investigation.

Options for Resolving Tax Debt

  • Installment Agreements: Structured payment plans to pay taxes over time.
  • Offer in Compromise: Settling tax debt for less than the full amount owed.
  • Currently Not Collectible Status: Halting collection if you can’t afford to pay.
  • Penalty Abatement: Requesting reduction or removal of penalties for reasonable cause.
  • Bankruptcy Considerations: In some cases, tax debts may be dischargeable in bankruptcy.
  • Appeals: Challenging liens, levies, or collection actions through the IRS Office of Appeals.

Why Legal Representation Matters

IRS and state tax authorities are powerful and persistent. Without representation, taxpayers risk losing income, property, and credit standing. An experienced tax collection defense attorney in New York, New Jersey, and federal practice can:

  • Negotiate with tax authorities on your behalf.
  • Protect your income and assets from aggressive collection.
  • Secure settlements, payment plans, or hardship relief.
  • Challenge improper liens, levies, or seizures.

Tax problems don’t go away on their own — they get worse with time. If you are facing liens, levies, or collection threats, we can help you find a solution that protects your finances and your future.