Quick Answer: Can the IRS Garnish Wages or Freeze Bank Accounts in Florida?

Yes. The IRS can garnish wages and freeze bank accounts in Florida without going to court.
Unlike most creditors, the IRS has broad federal authority to levy income and seize funds once proper notices are issued.
However, garnishment and bank levies are not immediate, and taxpayers usually have multiple opportunities to stop enforcement before it happens.

Can the IRS Garnish Wages or Freeze Bank Accounts in Florida?

Few IRS actions are more disruptive than wage garnishments and bank account levies.
For Plantation residents facing mounting IRS balances, understanding how and when enforcement occurs is critical.

IRS Enforcement Powers Explained

The IRS operates under federal law, which gives it stronger collection authority than private creditors.
In Florida, where state law protects wages from most garnishments, IRS levies still apply.

Enforcement typically begins only after multiple notices are ignored or unresolved.

IRS Wage Garnishment in Florida

An IRS wage garnishment is called a wage levy. Once issued, your employer is required to send part of your paycheck directly to the IRS.

  • No court order required
  • Applies to wages, bonuses, and commissions
  • Continues until the debt is resolved

Unlike state garnishments, IRS wage levies leave only a small exempt amount based on filing status and dependents.

IRS Bank Account Freezes

A bank levy freezes funds in your account for 21 days before the money is sent to the IRS.

During this window, it may still be possible to stop the levy if action is taken quickly.

IRS Notices That Come Before a Levy

IRS enforcement does not come without warning. Common notices include:

  • CP21A adjustment notices
  • CP504 final notice
  • LT11 or Letter 1058

Learn more here:
IRS Notices Plantation Residents Receive.

How Much the IRS Can Take

The IRS can levy:

  • Most wages above a small exemption
  • Bank balances on the day of levy
  • Future income streams

This is why unresolved back taxes and SFR assessments escalate quickly.

How to Stop an IRS Levy

  1. File missing tax returns
  2. Replace IRS Substitute for Return filings
  3. Request an installment agreement
  4. Request Currently Not Collectible status
  5. Appeal enforcement actions when appropriate

Back tax solutions explained here:
Back Taxes in Plantation, FL.

Common Mistakes That Trigger Enforcement

  • Ignoring IRS notices
  • Paying incorrect balances
  • Failing to file returns after SFRs
  • Calling the IRS without documentation

How Polaris Helps Stop IRS Enforcement

Polaris Tax & Accounting helps Plantation taxpayers:

  • Review IRS transcripts
  • Stop wage garnishments
  • Release bank levies
  • Correct IRS errors
  • Implement long-term resolution plans

Learn more:
Plantation IRS Resolution Services.

Related Plantation Tax Resources

Schedule IRS Enforcement Help

Wage garnishments and bank levies are serious but often preventable.
Acting early preserves options and limits financial damage.

Schedule a consultation:
https://calendly.com/polaris/newclient