IRS Wage Garnishment — Stop the IRS From Taking Your Paycheck
An IRS wage garnishment (levy) is one of the most disruptive collection actions the IRS can take. The IRS can take up to 70% of your disposable income with no court order, leaving you unable to pay rent, utilities, or groceries. But wage garnishments can be stopped — often within 24–48 hours.
How the IRS Handles This
The IRS issues a Final Notice of Intent to Levy (Letter 1058 or LT11), then after 30 days sends Form 668-W to your employer. Your employer must start withholding within 1 pay period. The withholding continues until the levy is released.
DIY Steps to Resolve This
- 1
Request a CDP hearing if within 30 days of the final notice
- 2
Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and request a hardship release
- 3
Enter an installment agreement or submit an OIC
- 4
Provide employer with Form 668-D once the levy is released
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The above is an overview. Our full guide includes IRS forms, template letters, phone scripts, and step-by-step procedures — everything you need to resolve this yourself.
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