Increase in the lien filing threshold
The Fresh Start changes increase the IRS lien filing threshold from $5,000 to $10,000. Liens may still be filed on amounts less than $10,000 when circumstances warrant. The IRS will not retroactively apply the new $10,000 lien filing threshold and automatically withdraw a previously filed lien.
Requesting a lien withdrawal after the lien has been released
If your lien has been released and you wish to have the Notice of Federal Tax Lien withdrawn, you must request the withdrawal in writing. Please use Form 12277, Application for Withdrawal, (PDF). In item 8, Reason for requesting withdrawal, check box d, the best interest provision.
Lien withdrawal after entering into a Direct Debit installment agreement
If you are a qualifying taxpayer and meet the eligibility requirements, you may have your lien withdrawn after entering into a Direct Debit installment agreement. Your request for lien withdrawal must be in writing. Please use Form 12277, Application for Withdrawal (PDF). In item 8, “Reason for requesting withdrawal,” check box b, the “entered into an installment agreement” provision.
Qualifying taxpayers are:
- Individuals (Form 1040 tax)
- Businesses with income tax liability only
- Out of business entities with any type of tax debt
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Eligibility Requirements are:
- The current amount you owe must be $25,000 or less
- If you owe more than $25,000, you may pay down the balance to $25,000 prior to requesting the lien withdrawal to be eligible
- Your Direct Debit Installment Agreement must full pay the amount you owe within 60 months or before the Collection Statute expires, whichever is earlier
- You must be in full compliance with other filing and payment requirements
- You must have made three consecutive direct debit payments
- You cannot have previously received a lien withdrawal for the same taxes unless the withdrawal was for an improper filing of the lien
- You cannot have defaulted on your current, or any previous, direct debit installment agreement
