Your Rights as a Taxpayer During Collections: What the IRS Can’t Do Without Following the Rules

When the IRS comes knocking, it’s easy to feel powerless — but the truth is, you have more rights than you think.

Yes, the IRS can be intimidating. Yes, they have powerful collection tools. But no — they can’t do whatever they want.

Let’s break down your taxpayer rights during IRS collections so you can feel confident, informed, and protected.

The Taxpayer Bill of Rights: What It Means for You

The IRS has an official Taxpayer Bill of Rights, and they are required to honor it in every case.

Here are a few of the most important rights to know:

🔹 The Right to Be Informed

You have the right to know what you owe, why you owe it, and what your options are.

🔹 The Right to Quality Service

You’re entitled to clear communication, respectful treatment, and timely responses.

🔹 The Right to Challenge the IRS’s Position

You can dispute the IRS’s findings and have the right to appeal or request a hearing.

🔹 The Right to Finality

You have the right to know when your tax issue is resolved, and when the IRS can no longer collect from you (collection statutes apply).

🔹 The Right to Representation

You have the right to hire a tax professional to speak on your behalf — so you don’t have to deal with the IRS directly.

Before the IRS Can Levy or Garnish, They Must...

• Send you a bill for what you owe (CP14 or similar)

• Provide a Final Notice of Intent to Levy

• Give you 30 days to respond or request a hearing

If they skip any of these steps, you may have grounds for an appeal.

You Can Request a Collection Due Process (CDP) Hearing

If the IRS is moving to seize your assets or garnish your wages, you may be able to request a CDP Hearing — a formal review by an independent IRS Office of Appeals.

This hearing can:

• Pause collections

• Allow you to present your case

• Help you work out a resolution without enforcement

But you must act fast — within 30 days of receiving the final notice.

You’re Also Entitled To...

• Appeal IRS decisions or collection actions

• File for penalty abatement if you had reasonable cause

• Seek innocent spouse relief if you’re not responsible for a spouse’s tax issue

• Get help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you're experiencing financial hardship or IRS inaction

  
  

Why Representation Changes the Game

Dealing with the IRS can feel like showing up to court without a lawyer. But when you have a qualified tax pro on your side:

• You don’t have to talk to the IRS at all

• You avoid saying anything that could hurt your case

• You have someone who knows how to push back and protect your rights

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Final Thoughts: You Have Rights — Use Them

The IRS has rules, too — and they must follow them. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to face this alone.

Book a Tax Strategy Session today and let’s make sure the IRS plays by the rules in your case — while we build a plan to protect your income, assets, and peace of mind.