IRS Tax Lien Help
Get Help Getting Your IRS Tax Lien Released
Dealing with an IRS tax lien can feel overwhelming, especially when you're selling a home, refinancing, or facing a deadline. I can help you understand your options and navigate the appropriate IRS process with confidence.
Prefer to talk? Call or text 248-961-6599
Aruna Surapaneni, EA
- Enrolled Agent (EA)
- Experienced in IRS Tax Lien Matters
- Serving Clients Nationwide
Your situation
Is an IRS Tax Lien Holding Up Your Plans?
You're not the first person in this spot, and there are established IRS processes for dealing with it. Here are the situations I see most often.
Selling a home with a federal tax lien
The lien attaches to your property, so the title company will usually need it resolved — through payoff, a release or a discharge — before closing.
Refinancing or getting a mortgage
Lenders often won't move ahead while a federal lien is on record. Options such as subordination may help in some cases.
You paid, but still need proof
If your balance is paid, the IRS generally issues a release. When it hasn't shown up, I can help you request it and get the paperwork you need.
You received a Notice of Federal Tax Lien
A lien notice is serious, but it's not the end of the road. Understanding what it means is the first step to dealing with it calmly.
A transaction deadline is coming
Closing dates don't wait. The sooner you reach out, the more room there is to work through the right IRS process.
Your options
Understanding Your IRS Lien Options
There are four main IRS paths. Which ones fit — if any — depends on your individual facts and IRS rules. Not every taxpayer qualifies for every option.
Option 1
Lien Release
Generally follows once the tax debt is fully paid, or once the lien is no longer legally enforceable (for example, the collection period has ended). It ends the lien itself.
Option 2
Lien Withdrawal
Removes the public Notice of Federal Tax Lien when certain IRS requirements are met. It does not necessarily mean the underlying tax debt is gone.
Option 3
Lien Discharge
Removes the lien from a specific property — often used when selling a home — when IRS requirements are satisfied. The lien may still apply to other property.
Option 4
Lien Subordination
Allows another creditor, such as a lender, to move ahead of the federal tax lien in certain circumstances — sometimes helpful for refinancing.
Still owe a balance? Paying it, or setting up an arrangement, is often part of the picture. See back taxes and IRS payment options.
Why work with me
Experienced IRS Tax Lien Assistance, With Personal Attention
AUS Tax Service is my own practice. As an Enrolled Agent, I've handled many federal tax lien matters — including ones with tight closing dates — and I'll walk you through yours personally.
- Direct, personal attention — you work with me, not a call center
- Clear explanations without confusing tax terminology
- Practical experience navigating IRS lien procedures, including time-sensitive situations
- Guidance specific to your facts, not a one-size-fits-all script
- Authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS as an Enrolled Agent
- 100% remote service for clients nationwide
Check my license yourself
Verify my Enrolled Agent credential on the official IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers. Just search the last name "Surapaneni".
Open the IRS directoryFacing a Home Closing or Financing Deadline?
I've helped clients in time-sensitive lien situations. How quickly things move depends on your circumstances, your documentation, the IRS procedure involved and IRS processing — so I can't promise a specific timeline, but starting early gives you the most room. Please mention your closing or financing date when you reach out.
How it works
A Simple Three-Step Process
- 1
Tell me about your situation
Share a brief description of your IRS lien concern and any important deadline.
- 2
Understand your options
During our introductory conversation, I'll help identify the appropriate next steps and whether professional assistance may be useful.
- 3
Know your fees before we begin
If you decide to move forward, I'll clearly explain the services included and provide a fixed fee for the agreed scope of work before we begin. Any work outside that scope is explained and approved by you in advance.
The initial 10-minute introductory consultation is free.
Free 10-minute consultation
Let's Find the Right Next Step for Your IRS Tax Lien
Tell me a little about your situation. I'll help you understand how we can move forward.
Please don't include Social Security numbers, IRS account numbers or financial documents here — we'll handle those securely later if needed.
Or call or text 248-961-6599
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IRS tax lien release?
A release ends the federal tax lien. The IRS generally issues it within 30 days after the tax debt is fully paid or the lien becomes legally unenforceable. A release is different from a withdrawal, which removes the public notice.
How long does an IRS tax lien release take?
It depends on your situation, your documentation and IRS processing times. Releases after full payment are generally issued within about 30 days; discharge and subordination requests often take longer. No one can promise a specific IRS timeline.
Can I sell my home with an IRS tax lien?
Often, yes — but the lien usually has to be dealt with as part of the sale, for example by paying it from the proceeds or requesting a certificate of discharge for the property. Your specific facts determine what's possible.
What if I've already paid my IRS tax debt?
The IRS should issue a release. If it hasn't appeared or you need a copy for a lender or title company, a release can be requested. I can help you through that process.
What's the difference between lien release and withdrawal?
A release ends the lien, usually after the debt is paid. A withdrawal removes the public Notice of Federal Tax Lien as if it hadn't been filed, but it doesn't necessarily eliminate any tax you still owe. Each has its own IRS requirements.
Can an Enrolled Agent help with IRS tax liens?
Yes. Enrolled Agents are licensed by the IRS and authorized to represent taxpayers on collection matters, including liens. With your written authorization, I can communicate with the IRS on your behalf.
What should I do if my closing date is approaching?
Reach out as early as you can and include your closing or financing date in your request. Have any IRS notices and your title or lender contact handy. Timing still depends on IRS processing, so earlier is always better.
General information based on IRS guidance; not legal advice. Your options depend on your specific facts.
Learn More About IRS Tax Liens
Prefer to understand the process before reaching out? Explore my tax resources for clear, practical information about IRS notices, tax debts, and resolution options.
Explore Tax ResourcesHelping a Client With an IRS Tax Lien?
If you're a mortgage loan officer, title professional, real estate agent, or another professional helping someone navigate an IRS tax lien, I welcome the opportunity to assist. I'll need the taxpayer's written authorization before discussing their confidential tax information.
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