What to do with the IRS Final Notice:

An IRS Final Notice, often titled “Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing” (usually Notice LT11 or CP504), is a critical warning that the IRS is about to take enforced collection action. This may include garnishing wages, seizing bank accounts, or levying other assets. It means previous attempts to collect the tax debt have gone unanswered or unresolved.

If you receive a Final Notice, act immediately. You have 30 days from the date of the notice to request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing with the IRS Office of Appeals. This hearing gives you the opportunity to explain your situation, propose alternatives like an installment agreement or Offer in Compromise, or challenge the debt if appropriate.

Do not ignore the notice. Ignoring it may lead to aggressive IRS action that can seriously disrupt your finances. If you’re unsure how to respond, consult a tax professional or resolution specialist to help protect your rights and explore the best resolution based on your circumstances. The sooner you respond, the more options you’ll have to resolve your tax issue and avoid enforced collection.