Tax Lien Lawyers in Ionia

In Ionia, Michigan, a "lien" is a type of property right, which is created by a court to obtain payment of a lawful debt. Generally, a valid lien gives its holder the right to seize the property subject to it, or at least some of the property's equity, to satisfy the debt. If the owner sells a piece of property that's subject to a lien, the creditor who owns the lien may be entitled to the proceeds, up to the amount you owe them. It can also put them "first in line" compared to other creditors, if the debtor files for bankruptcy.

A tax lien, then, is simply a lien that is created for the specific purpose of collecting taxes from a delinquent tax payer in Ionia, Michigan.

Tax Liens in Ionia, Michigan are generally only effective if the taxpayer has a significant amount of property on which a lien can be placed. However, it's important to note that virtually any property, including that which is acquired after the lien is imposed, can be subject to a tax lien.

Tax Lien Procedure in Ionia, Michigan

In Ionia, Michigan, the process for creating a tax lien is fairly uncomplicated. First, the tax authorities determine that a taxpayer actually owes taxes that they haven't paid (that they're delinquent in their taxes).

Then, the taxpayer is sent a letter with a "notice and demand," which informs the taxpayer that the IRS has determined that they owe back taxes, and that they have a short period of time (usually 10 days) to pay them without incurring a penalty.

If that time period expires, and the debtor still hasn't paid, the Michigan tax lien will go into effect automatically, with no further action required.

However, if the federal government does not seek to enforce a tax lien in Ionia, Michigan within 10 years of imposing it, federal law dictates that the lien automatically expires. This is effectively a statute of limitations on a tax lien, meant to encourage the federal government to collect its taxes in a reasonable period of time, and ensure that property is not encumbered by a lien forever.

How Can a Ionia, Michigan Tax Lien Lawyer Help?

If the federal government, or the government of Michigan informs you that they intend to place a tax lien on your property, you will likely face some pretty complicated and daunting legal issues.

Luckily for you, tax lawyers in Ionia, Michigan are experts at dealing with matters such as these, and can make sure your rights are protected, and advise you on the best way to proceed, if you are facing the prospect of a tax lien.