Receiving notice that the IRS is garnishing your wages? It’s a serious situation—but one you can resolve. With quick action and the right strategy, you can stop the garnishment and take back control of your finances.
At Polaris Tax & Accounting, we help North Carolina residents—from Asheville to Charlotte—respond to IRS levies, negotiate payment options, and rebuild financial stability.
What Is IRS Wage Garnishment?
Wage garnishment allows the IRS to seize part of your paycheck without a court order. They do this to recover unpaid federal taxes after sending a Final Notice of Intent to Levy (Letter LT11 or CP504). If you don’t respond within 30 days, the IRS can legally contact your employer and garnish your wages.
How Much Can the IRS Garnish in North Carolina?
The IRS refers to its federal exemption tables, which determine how much of your income you’re allowed to keep. Most individuals are left with only basic living expenses—often just $400–$1,200 per paycheck.
North Carolina also allows other creditors to garnish wages, but the IRS has broader authority and typically takes priority. Employers in NC must comply with IRS wage garnishment orders.
Steps to Stop IRS Wage Garnishment
1. Contact the IRS Immediately
If you’ve received a final notice, you must respond within 30 days to prevent garnishment.
2. File All Missing Tax Returns
You cannot qualify for a resolution plan if the IRS believes you have unfiled returns.
3. Apply for a Resolution Option:
- Monthly Installment Agreement
- Offer in Compromise
- Currently Not Collectible (CNC)
- Penalty Relief / Abatement
4. Request a Collection Due Process Hearing
This request can pause the garnishment while your case is reviewed.
Why Work With Polaris?
- We help clients across North Carolina deal directly with IRS collections
- We ensure all past-due filings are completed fast and accurately
- We negotiate with the IRS on your behalf to stop garnishment quickly
- We explore every legal option to reduce or resolve what you owe
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Final Thoughts
Wage garnishment doesn’t have to wreck your finances. With the right support, you can stop the IRS from taking your paycheck and move forward with confidence. Polaris is here to help North Carolina taxpayers find relief.