Tax Lien Lawyers in Saginaw
In Saginaw, 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 Saginaw, Michigan.
Tax Liens in Saginaw, Michigan are usually only effective if the taxpayer has a significant amount of property on which a lien can be placed. However, it's necessary 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 Saginaw, Michigan
Imposing a tax lien in Saginaw, Michigan is normally an uncomplicated process. Usually, the tax authorities simply have to make a determination that the taxpayer is delinquent in their taxes, and that imposing and enforcing a tax lien will actually be worth the effort.
They will then mail a document called a "notice and demand," which lets the taxpayer know that they owe money on their taxes, and that they have a given period of time (typically 10 days) to pay what they owe.
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, these rights are limited. In Saginaw, Michigan, and everywhere else in the United States, the IRS has 10 years to enforce a tax lien. If they do nothing about it within 10 years, the lien expires. This rule exists for a few reasons. First, it encourages the IRS to act as quickly and efficiently as possible, and not "sit on its rights." Second, it acknowledges the fact that any encumbrance on a piece of property, such as a lien, makes the property less valuable. By ensuring that the lien will either be satisfied or expire within 10 years, this prevents property from being withheld from the stream of commerce indefinitely.
How Can a Saginaw, 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.
Accordingly, if you think that any piece of property you own might become subject to a tax lien in Saginaw, Michigan, you should not hesitate to seek the advice of a skilled tax attorney immediately.