Can the IRS Really Take My Retirement Income?

Yes. The IRS has powerful tools under federal law to collect unpaid taxes, including by levying federal payments like:

  • Social Security Retirement

  • Social Security Disability (SSDI)

  • Civil Service Retirement (CSRS/FERS)

  • Federal pensions and annuities

  • Railroad Retirement benefits

 IRS uses something called the Federal Payment Levy Program (FPLP), which allows them to automatically take up to 15% of your monthly Social Security or federal benefits to apply toward your tax debt.

💥The IRS does not need a court order to do this.

What About Disability Benefits Like SSI or VA?

Here’s the distinction:

 

Benefit Type

Subject to IRS Levy?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Yes

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

No

VA Disability Compensation

No (in most cases)

Veterans Pension

No

Civilian Retirement Annuities

Yes

So, while SSDI is levyable, SSI and VA disability payments are typically exempt, but you'll need proper documentation to prove it.

 How the IRS Levy Process Works

  1. IRS sends notices (CP14, CP501, CP504)

  2. Then a Final Notice of Intent to Levy (LT11 or 1058)

  3. You have 30 days to respond or request a hearing

  4. After that, IRS can start taking 15% of your benefits—every single month

 And it doesn’t stop until the balance is paid in full, or a resolution is reached.

 How to Stop the IRS From Touching Your Benefits

You have rights, and options. Even if the IRS has already started taking money from your benefits, it’s not too late.

 Here’s how we can help:

1. File for “Currently Not Collectible” Status

If you can prove financial hardship, the IRS can halt collection and leave your benefits alone.

 2. Negotiate an Installment Agreement

This pauses enforcement, as long as you stay compliant.

 3. Submit an Offer in Compromise

If you qualify, you could settle your tax debt for less than you owe—and stop the levy permanently.

 4. Appeal the Levy

If the IRS didn’t follow proper procedure or you weren’t given a chance to respond, we can file an appeal or request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing.

 Why You Shouldn’t Face the IRS Alone

Whether you’re living on Social Security, SSDI, or retirement income, you need every dollar to count.

 Our tax resolution team knows how to:

  • Stop IRS levies on retirement and disability

  • Negotiate favorable settlements

  • Help you regain control of your income and your peace of mind

  • You receive federal retirement or disability income

  • You’re unsure if the IRS has filed a lien or levy against you

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