What Happens If I Don’t Pay My IRS Back Taxes?
- Suzanne Weathers
- Nov 7
- 3 min read
By Suzanne Weathers, EA | Weathers & Associates Consulting
Solving Tax Problems
Unpaid taxes can weigh heavily on anyone, especially when life or business gets complicated. The good news is that the IRS has a clear, predictable process—and understanding it can help you take control long before serious consequences arise.
"Don't Pay My IRS Back Taxes"
When a tax balance remains unpaid after the filing deadline, the IRS adds penalties and daily compounding interest to the amount due. The first notice you receive is called a Balance Due notice. If the balance remains unresolved, the IRS will continue issuing a series of progressively urgent letters, each outlining your right to respond, appeal, or request a payment arrangement.
If no action is taken, the account eventually moves into collections status. At this point, the IRS may file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien, which secures the government’s interest in your property. The next step—if still unresolved—can include levies on wages, bank accounts, or other assets. However, these actions do not occur without notice. Federal law requires the IRS to notify you of your rights and offer an opportunity to resolve the issue first.
You Have Options Before It Gets That Far
For most taxpayers, the key is communication. Even if you can’t pay in full, the IRS provides several resolution paths:
Installment Agreements allow you to make affordable monthly payments.
Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status can temporarily stop collections when you’re unable to pay.
Offer in Compromise (OIC) may reduce your total balance if repayment would cause financial hardship.
Taking early action preserves your rights, protects your assets, and often reduces long-term stress. Many people are surprised to learn that the IRS will work with you if you demonstrate good faith and provide accurate financial information.
A Realistic First Step
Before making any decisions, it’s wise to review your IRS transcripts to confirm what’s owed and when each year was assessed. This establishes your Collection Statute Expiration Date (CSED)—the timeline the IRS has to collect. A credentialed tax professional, such as an Enrolled Agent, can interpret these records, determine your eligibility for relief programs, and communicate with the IRS on your behalf.
If you’re unsure where to start, schedule a confidential consultation with Weathers & Associates Consulting. Together, we can review your transcripts, identify your options, and create a step-by-step plan toward resolution—without judgment or pressure.
And if you ever want guidance, we’re here.
Need a hand? 📞 (509) 994-8904 | contact us
Keep following: Let’s Talk Taxes – Live Workshop
If you found this blog helpful, just wait until we dive in together.
Our workshop, “Let’s Talk Taxes: Solving Tax Problems with Confidence,” is designed specifically for individuals like you—not tax professionals—who want clarity, control, and a clear action plan. Returning in January with early registration beginning in December!
We’ll walk through the IRS collections process, help you build your own tax debt timeline, and give you tools to confidently assess your resolution options.
✅ Understand what the IRS is doing and why
✅ Learn what paperwork to gather and when
✅ Explore realistic solutions without shame
✅ Leave with a personalized 3-step action plan
In the meantime, visit weathersassociates.com for updates or to download your free document checklist.
Authoritative Source:
Internal Revenue Code § 6331 – Levy and distraint procedures, Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute: https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/26/6331
Internal Revenue Manual, Part 5 – Collection Process Overview (IRS.gov)
📸 Photo Credit: by Mackenzie Marco on Unsplash
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