Tax Lien Lawyers in Ishpeming

In Ishpeming, Michigan, a "lien" is a type of property right, which is created by a court to obtain payment of a lawful debt. Usually, 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 additionally 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 Ishpeming, Michigan.

Tax Liens in Ishpeming, Michigan are usually only effective if the taxpayer has a significant amount of property on which a lien can be placed. However, it's critical 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 Ishpeming, Michigan

In Ishpeming, Michigan, the process for creating a tax lien is fairly uncomplicated. First, the tax authorities determine that a taxpayer truly 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 (typically 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.

But, under federal law, there are limits to how tax liens can be enforced in Ishpeming, Michigan, and elsewhere. Usually, the IRS has 10 years to try and enforce a tax lien. If no effort is made to enforce a tax lien for 10 years, the lien is automatically lifted, and the lien holder loses all rights in it. This rule exists to ensure that the government collects its taxes in a reasonable time period, and it prevents valuable property (which could otherwise be contributing to the economy by being bought and sold) is not laded with a lien for an indefinite period of time.

How Can a Ishpeming, 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 intricate and daunting legal issues.

Thankfully for you, tax lawyers in Ishpeming, 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.