Solutions
Request Hold
An IRS hold temporarily pauses collection action, giving you time to arrange payment or explore resolution options without levy or garnishment.
Holds are often approved within 24 hours. Request immediately when facing collection.
An IRS hold (also called a "collection hold" or "statutory hold") temporarily pauses all collection action on your account. While the hold is active, the IRS cannot levy your bank account or garnish your wages, giving you breathing room to make arrangements.
Holds typically last 30-120 days depending on the reason. They are most commonly granted for:
A CPA, EA, or tax attorney can request a hold on your behalf. Many holds are approved within 24 hours when a professional makes the request.
Send a formal written request to the IRS Collection unit handling your case, explaining your hardship and requesting a hold. Include your notice and explain your circumstances.
No bank levies, wage garnishments, or liens are issued while the hold is active.
Your debt continues accruing interest and penalties. The hold only pauses collection action, not the debt itself.
Use this time to negotiate a payment plan, request OIC, or gather documents for a CDP hearing.
When the hold expires, collection action resumes unless you've arranged a permanent solution (payment plan, settlement, etc.).
Call immediately or work with a professional to request a statutory hold on collections.
Be clear about why you need the hold: hardship, arranging payment, gathering documents, etc.
Obtain a confirmation number and write down the hold duration. Ask for it in writing if possible.
Use the hold period to finalize a payment plan, settlement, or other resolution before the hold expires.
Our tax professionals can contact the IRS today and request a hold on collections while we review your situation.
No obligation. We will review your case and contact you.
Levies & Garnishment