How to Change the Name on an IRS Bank Levy

The IRS places levies on bank accounts when an outstanding tax bill has not been addressed. It is possible to have the levy placed on your account incorrectly. This might happen when a couple marries, but one party had an outstanding IRS debt before the marriage. When the levy is imposed, it might be placed on all joint accounts. Getting your name removed from the levy requires diligent documentation that you are not the responsible party.

Instructions

1

Obtain a copy of the levy served on the bank and other financial institutions to confirm you are named on the levy. A levy allows the IRS to seize assets they move into the account. If you are not named on the levy, open an individual account to separate your assets from the party being levied. If you are named on the levy, this might not be effective, since the bank is required to impose the levy on any account in the institution.

2

Call the IRS and request the history behind the levy. If your are named as a debtor, you have the right to this information. The IRS is available via phone at 800-829-1040.

3

Gather all pertinent historical information regarding your financial history, marital history and anything that demonstrates that you are not responsible for the IRS debt.

4

Make an appointment with an IRS representative to review the levy. Provide all documentation to the representative. If you don't have an IRS office close by, request the help of a tax adviser, tax attorney or write a letter to the IRS with all the details.