Tax Lien Lawyers in Killeen
In Killeen, Texas, 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 allows 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 simply a lien that is created for the specific purpose of collecting taxes from a delinquent tax payer in Killeen, Texas.
Tax Liens in Killeen, Texas are generally only effective if the taxpayer has a significant amount of property on which a lien can be placed. However, it's essential 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 Killeen, Texas
The process of imposing a tax lien on property in Killeen, Texas is usually fairly simple. The first step is for the IRS or local tax agency to determine that a person actually owes back taxes, and that it is worth the effort to impose a lien.
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 this deadline expires, and the debtor does not pay the taxes they owe, the lien will take effect automatically. When this occurs, the IRS or Texas tax agency will have significant rights against the taxpayer's property.
However, if the federal government does not seek to enforce a tax lien in Killeen, Texas 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 Killeen, Texas Tax Lien Lawyer Help?
If you end up having a tax lien imposed on your property in Texas, you will probably have to deal with some fairly difficult legal issues, which might be confusing to a layperson.
Luckily for you, tax lawyers in Killeen, Texas 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.