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Tax Lien
A legal claim the IRS places on your property as security for unpaid tax debt.
Full Definition
A federal tax lien is the government's legal claim against your property when you neglect or fail to pay a tax debt. The lien protects the government's interest in all your property, including real estate, personal property, and financial assets. A lien arises automatically when the IRS assesses a liability, sends a bill, and you fail to pay. A Notice of Federal Tax Lien may be filed publicly, which can damage your credit and make it difficult to sell property or obtain financing.
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