- What it means
- The IRS intends to take up to 15 percent of your Social Security benefits to pay a tax debt.
- Respond within
- 30 days from the date on the notice
- What to send
- Payment, a payment plan, or a hearing request.
- When to get help
- If the levy would leave you unable to meet basic expenses, ask for currently-not-collectible status; a representative can help document it.
What the letter says
Under the Federal Payment Levy Program the IRS can take 15 percent of Social Security retirement or disability benefits continuously until the debt is paid. This is the notice before it starts.
What to do
A payment plan stops the levy. If you cannot afford one, a financial statement showing hardship can place the account in currently-not-collectible status. The 30-day hearing right applies.
What to gather
- The notice
- Benefit statements
- A monthly budget
- Form 12153 if requesting a hearing
Write back
The Payment plan request cover letter tool builds the response in the order the IRS reads it. Fill it in, review it, print it, and send it with copies of the documents above and the notice stub on top.
Before you send anything
This is general information, not tax advice. Situations differ. Check with your tax advisor before you send anything. Nothing on this page creates a client relationship.