Tax Lien Lawyers in Newberry

In Newberry, South Carolina, a "lien" is defined as a property right that's granted to a creditor against a piece of property owned by a debtor, for the purpose of collecting on the debt if the debtor is unwilling or unable to pay. A lien permits its owner to exercise some control over the property that is the subject of the lien. This includes the right to force a sale of the property, and to seize the resulting revenue, and priority access to the property ahead of other creditors.

A "tax lien," then, is a lien held by the government to collect a tax-related debt from a private entity, such as a person or corporation in Newberry, South Carolina.

Tax Liens in Newberry, South Carolina 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 essentially any property, including that which is acquired after the lien is imposed, can be subject to a tax lien.

Tax Lien Procedure in Newberry, South Carolina

In Newberry, South Carolina, 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).

At this point, the taxpayer will receive a letter containing a "notice and demand," which, as the name suggests, gives notice that the recipient owes taxes, and demands immediate payment. It will typically give the taxpayer about 10 days to pay the demanded amount.

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

But, these rights are limited. In Newberry, South Carolina, 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." Furthermore, 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 Newberry, South Carolina Tax Lien Lawyer Help?

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

Thus, it should go without saying that if you are facing the prospect of your home or vehicle being slapped with a tax lien, you need to pursue the advice of a knowledgeable tax lawyer in Newberry, South Carolina as soon as you can.