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IRS ST11 Notice: Here’s How to Respond and Prevent an IRS Levy

Silas Bamigbola avatar image
Last updated 10/31/2024 by

Silas Bamigbola

Fact checked by

Ante Mazalin

Summary:
The IRS ST11 Notice informs taxpayers that they have unpaid back taxes and warns of impending enforcement actions, such as levying property or wages. This notice is a final alert that immediate action is necessary to avoid severe financial consequences. It outlines options for resolving the debt, including payment plans or disputing the notice if it was issued in error, and provides crucial details for protecting personal assets.
Facing the possibility of the IRS seizing your assets can be alarming, and an IRS ST11 Notice means that the IRS is preparing to take collection actions due to unpaid taxes. This typically happens when previous attempts to collect the debt have failed. The notice serves as a final warning that the IRS intends to levy property, such as wages or bank accounts, unless the debt is resolved immediately. Understanding how to address the notice and what steps to take can help protect your assets and prevent further enforcement actions.
Struggling with IRS notices? If you’ve received an IRS letter and aren’t sure how to handle it, you might want to explore professional tax relief options. Optima Tax Relief has helped thousands of people resolve their tax issues and get back on track with the IRS. Learn more about how they can assist you with your situation.

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What is the IRS ST11 notice?

The IRS ST11 Notice is a formal communication sent to taxpayers when they have failed to make payment on back taxes. The purpose of this notice is to inform the taxpayer of the IRS’s intent to levy (seize) their property or rights to property, which can include wages, bank accounts, or even physical assets. The notice is a serious warning that immediate action is required.
In Spanish, the IRS ST11 Notice may read as follows: “No hemos recibido ningún pago de usted para sus impuestos atrasados. Esta carta es para informarle de nuestra intención de embargar sus propiedades o derechos a la propiedad. Usted debe comunicarse con nosotros inmediatamente.” This translates to, “We have not received any payment from you for your back taxes. This letter is to inform you of our intention to levy your properties or rights to property. You must contact us immediately.”

Why did you receive an IRS ST11 Notice?

The IRS sends an ST11 Notice when a taxpayer has an outstanding tax debt that has not been resolved. The notice is usually issued after prior attempts to contact the taxpayer or receive payment have failed. It serves as a final warning before the IRS takes more drastic actions, such as levying property or wages.
There are several reasons why you might receive an IRS ST11 Notice, including:
  • Failure to pay taxes on time.
  • Ongoing tax debt that has not been settled.
  • Failure to respond to previous IRS notices or letters.
  • Discrepancies or errors on tax returns that resulted in an unpaid balance.
If you receive this notice, it’s critical to address it immediately to avoid enforcement actions by the IRS.

Pro Tip

Always contact the IRS immediately after receiving the ST11 Notice. Prompt action can prevent the IRS from levying your bank accounts or garnishing your wages.

How the IRS ST11 notice affects you

An IRS ST11 Notice is a serious communication that signals the IRS is preparing to collect unpaid taxes through a levy. This gives the IRS the legal right to seize your property, including wages, bank accounts, and physical assets like vehicles or homes, to satisfy your tax debt. Ignoring the notice means these actions can proceed without further warning.
Wage garnishment is one potential outcome, where a portion of your paycheck is withheld until the debt is resolved. The IRS can also freeze and withdraw funds from your bank account, which could leave you without access to money for bills or daily expenses. Additionally, they may place a federal tax lien on your property, damaging your credit and hindering your ability to secure future loans or credit.
It’s critical to respond promptly to avoid these consequences. By setting up a payment plan or disputing the levy, you can stop the IRS from moving forward with asset seizures or garnishments. Ignoring the notice will only escalate the situation, potentially causing significant financial strain.

Pro Tip

Set up a payment plan with the IRS if you cannot afford to pay your full tax debt. This can stop the levy process and give you time to resolve the debt without immediate asset seizures.

What should you do when you receive an IRS ST11 notice?

Upon receiving an IRS ST11 Notice, your first step should be to review the notice carefully and understand the reason behind it. Here are the key steps you should take:
  • Read the notice thoroughly: Ensure you understand how much you owe, why you owe it, and the deadline for responding.
  • Verify your records: Double-check your own financial and tax records to ensure there are no errors in the IRS’s calculation.
  • Contact the IRS immediately: If you cannot pay the full amount, reach out to the IRS to discuss payment options such as an installment agreement.
  • Consider professional help: If the situation is complicated or you cannot afford to pay, consider consulting with a tax professional or attorney.
  • Explore alternative options: You may be able to negotiate an Offer in Compromise, which allows you to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed.
Ignoring the notice will not make the problem go away. It is essential to act promptly to avoid further penalties and asset seizures.

How to respond to the IRS ST11 notice

Steps to take when responding to an IRS ST11 notice

When you receive an IRS ST11 Notice, it’s essential to respond quickly to prevent further action. Here’s what you need to do:
  • Contact the IRS immediately: Use the contact information provided in the notice. Timely communication is key to preventing further enforcement actions like wage garnishments or bank levies. Acting promptly gives you more options to resolve the issue without escalation.
  • Discuss payment options: When you speak to the IRS, explore your options. You may be able to pay the full amount to stop the levy process. If full payment is not possible, ask about setting up an installment plan or applying for an Offer in Compromise, which allows you to settle the debt for less than what you owe.
  • Gather supporting documentation if needed: If you believe the IRS has made an error, it’s crucial to collect any documents that support your case. This may include copies of previous tax returns, bank statements, or other records. Having these documents ready can help you dispute the levy efficiently and avoid delays in the process.
  • Send required documentation promptly: If the IRS requests specific documents, make sure you provide them on time. Ensure everything is formatted as the IRS requests, and include all necessary details to avoid any issues. The quicker you respond with the proper documentation, the faster your issue can be resolved.

Payment options for the IRS ST11 notice

The IRS provides several ways to resolve your tax debt after receiving an ST11 Notice:
  • Full payment: If you’re able to pay the full amount owed, this is the fastest and most effective way to resolve your tax debt and stop the IRS from pursuing further actions. Paying in full immediately prevents levies and garnishments.
  • Installment plan: If you cannot pay the entire amount upfront, the IRS offers installment agreements. This allows you to make manageable monthly payments toward your debt over time. Setting up a payment plan can help you avoid further asset seizures while gradually resolving the tax debt.
  • Offer in Compromise (OIC): For those who qualify, an Offer in Compromise lets you settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed. This option is based on your financial situation and ability to pay. Keep in mind that approval from the IRS is required, and you’ll need to meet specific qualifications.
These options can help you avoid levies and liens, but you must communicate with the IRS to initiate any payment arrangement.

Pro Tip

Consult a tax professional if you’re unsure about how to respond to the IRS ST11 Notice. A professional can help you navigate the process, especially if you’re disputing the amount owed or the levy itself.

What happens if you ignore the IRS ST11 notice?

If you do not respond to the IRS ST11 Notice, the consequences can be severe. The IRS has the authority to take aggressive collection actions, which can have a significant impact on your financial situation. Some of the penalties for ignoring this notice include:
  • Wage garnishment, which can reduce your income and affect your ability to meet living expenses.
  • Freezing and seizing of funds from your bank accounts, leaving you unable to pay bills.
  • Seizure of personal property, including cars, homes, and other valuable assets.
  • Tax liens, which could lower your credit score and create obstacles when applying for loans or credit.
The longer you wait to resolve the issue, the more difficult and expensive it becomes. Additional penalties and interest may accrue, further increasing your debt.
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Frequently asked questions

What should you do if you can’t pay the full amount on the IRS ST11 notice?

If you’re unable to pay the full amount stated on the IRS ST11 Notice, it’s important to contact the IRS right away to discuss payment options. You can request an installment agreement, which allows you to pay the debt over time in manageable monthly payments. Another option might be an Offer in Compromise, where you negotiate to pay a lesser amount if you qualify based on your financial situation.

How long do you have to respond to the IRS ST11 notice?

The IRS typically gives you a short timeframe to respond to the ST11 Notice before they take further action, such as levying your property. While the exact deadline will be listed on your notice, it’s critical to contact the IRS as soon as possible to avoid enforcement actions. The sooner you respond, the more options you have for resolving the debt and protecting your assets.

Can you dispute the IRS ST11 notice if you think there’s an error?

Yes, you can dispute the IRS ST11 Notice if you believe it was issued in error. To do this, gather documentation that supports your claim, such as proof of payment or tax returns. You should contact the IRS immediately to explain the error and submit your documentation. It’s also advisable to consult a tax professional to assist with the dispute process.

What assets can the IRS seize with an ST11 notice?

The IRS can seize a variety of assets if you do not respond to the ST11 Notice. This includes wages (through garnishment), funds from your bank accounts, personal property (like cars or homes), and even future income, such as tax refunds. The IRS also has the authority to place a federal tax lien on your property, which could affect your credit score and borrowing ability.

Will the IRS notify you before seizing your property?

Yes, the IRS is required to notify you before seizing your property. The IRS ST11 Notice serves as this warning. After receiving this notice, if you do not take immediate action to pay or settle your debt, the IRS will proceed with levies and garnishments without further notice. Acting promptly can prevent the loss of your assets.
Need help understanding other IRS letters and notices? Visit our comprehensive guide to IRS Letters and Notices or search for the document you received in the table below.
IRS Letter or Notice Number
Notice Description
CP01The IRS verified your claim of identity theft and will monitor your account.
CP01HThe IRS received a tax return with a social security number that belongs to a dead person.
CP02HMoney is due on an amended return based on a grant received due to Hurricane Katrina, Rita, or Wilma.
CP03CYou received the First-Time Homebuyer Credit for a house you purchased.
CP04You may be eligible for tax deferment because either you or a spouse served in a combat zone, a qualified contingency operation, or a hazardous duty station during the tax year specified on your notice.
CP08You may be entitled to additional money due to the Additional Child Tax Credit.
CP10Your tax return changed due to a miscalculation, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed.
CP10AYour tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed.
CP11You owe money because the IRS amended your return due to a miscalculation.
CP11AYour tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment also changed.
CP11MYour tax return changed due to a miscalculation of the Making Work Pay and Government Retiree Credit, and the refund you wanted to apply to an estimated tax payment has changed.
CP12You are due a bigger refund because the IRS corrected one or more mistakes on your tax return.
CP12AThe IRS made changes to correct the Earned Income Credit (EIC) claimed on your tax return.
CP12E or CP12FThe IRS corrected a miscalculation on your return.
CP12MThe IRS made changes to the computation of the Making Work Pay and/or Government Retiree Credits on your return.
CP12RThe IRS made changes to the computation of the Rebate Recovery Credit on your return.
CP13The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero.
CP13AThe IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Earned Income Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero.
CP13MThe IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Making Work Pay credit or the Government Retiree Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero.
CP13RThe IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation of the Recovery Rebate Credit. There is no refund or amount due. Your balance is zero.
CP14You owe money on unpaid taxes.
CP16The IRS made changes to your return due to a miscalculation. The refund you were due was applied to other tax debts.
CP21AYou owe money due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns.
CP21BYou are due a refund due to the changes you requested that the IRS make on your tax returns. The money should arrive within 2 to 3 weeks.
CP21CThe IRS made the requested changes to your tax return. You will not receive a refund, and there is no tax due. Your balance is zero.
CP21EAs a result of your recent audit, the IRS made changes to your tax return, and you owe money as a result of those changes.
CP21IThe IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes.
CP22AThe IRS made the changes you requested, and you owe money as a result.
CP22EAs a result of your recent audit, the IRS changed your tax return, and you now owe money.
CP22IThe IRS made changes to your tax return relating to the Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA) taxes. You owe money due to the changes.
CP23The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. You owe taxes due to these changes.
CP24The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. This resulted in an overpayment of estimated taxes.
CP24EThe IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. This resulted in an overpayment of estimated taxes.
CP25The IRS changed your return because there was a difference between the amount of estimated tax payments listed on your tax return and the amount actually posted to your account. You are not due a refund, nor do you owe any money. Your balance is zero.
CP31You need to update your address because your refund check was returned to the IRS.
CP45The IRS was unable to apply your overpayment to your estimated tax as you requested.
CP49The IRS used all or part of your refund to pay a tax debt.
CP53Your refund check will be sent by mail because the IRS can’t provide your refund through direct deposit.
CP57The bank declined your payment, so the IRS was unable to draft funds from your bank account.
CP71A reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest.
CP71AA reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest.
CP71CA reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest.
CP71DA reminder of the amount you owe in tax, penalty, and interest.
CP88The IRS is holding your refund because you haven't filed one or more tax returns, and it believes you will owe tax.
CP90The IRS is notifying you of its intent to levy certain assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy in a Collection Due Process hearing.
CP91The IRS will levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes.
CP120The IRS needs documentation of your tax-exempt status.
CP120AYour organization’s tax-exempt status has been revoked because it failed to file a Form 990 series return for three consecutive years.
CP130You may no longer need to pay the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) because your tax return filing requirements changed.
CP152The IRS received your return.
CP153The IRS will send your refund by mail because your direct deposit did not go through.
CP161You have an unpaid balance due to the IRS.
CP166Your monthly payment to the IRS did not go through due to insufficient funds in your bank account.
CP178You may no longer owe excise tax because your tax return filing requirements changed.
CP231You need to update your address because your refund was returned to the IRS.
CP259You did not file the business tax return identified in the notice.
CP259AYou should have filed these forms but did not – Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax, or Form 990-N (e-Postcard).
CP259BThe IRS requires you to file these forms but did not – Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust Treated as a Private Foundation.
CP259CThe IRS believes that you are a private foundation, but did not file the required Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust Treated as a Private Foundation.
CP259DYou must file this form, but you did not – Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return.
CP259EYou should have filed this form, but you did not – Form 990-N (e-Postcard) or Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax.
CP259FThe IRS requires you to file this form but did not – Form 5227, Split-Interest Trust Information Return.
CP259GThe IRS requires you to file this form, but you didn’t – Form 1120-POL, U.S. Income Tax Return for Certain Political Organizations.
CP259HAs a tax-exempt political organization, you must file this form, but you did not – Form 990/990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax.
CP276AYou submitted your tax liability schedule incorrectly. The IRS typically charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty for this but did not this time.
CP276BThe IRS did not receive the correct amount of tax deposits. It normally charges a Federal Tax Deposit (FTD) penalty but did not this time.
CP297The IRS is notifying you of its intent to levy certain assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing.
CP297AThe IRS has levied your assets for unpaid taxes. You have the right to dispute the levy at a Collection Due Process hearing.
CP298The IRS notifying you of its intent to levy up to 15% of your social security benefits for unpaid taxes.
CP501You have a balance due on one of your tax accounts.
CP503You have an unpaid balance on one of your accounts, and the IRS has not heard from you.
CP504You have an unpaid amount due on your account. If you do not pay immediately, the IRS will levy your state income tax refund to apply it to the amount you owe.
CP504BYou have an unpaid amount due on your account. If you do not pay immediately, the IRS will levy certain property or rights to property to apply it to the amount you owe.
CP521A reminder that you have an installment agreement payment due.
CP523You have defaulted on your payment agreement. Therefore the IRS is terminating the agreement and will levy your assets.
CP601Usted tiene un saldo pendiente de pago (dinero que le debe al IRS) en una de sus cuentas contributivas.
CP603No hemos recibido respuesta de parte de usted y todavía tiene un saldo sin pagar en una de sus cuentas contributivas.
CP604Usted tiene un saldo sin pagar en su cuenta. De no pagar esta cantidad inmediatemente, el IRS embargará cualquier reembolso de impuestos estatales al que tenga derecho y aplicarlo al pago de su deuda.
CP604BUsted tiene un saldo sin pagar en su cuenta. De no pagar esta cantidad inmediatemente, el IRS embargará ciertas propiedades o derechos de propiedad y lo aplicará al pago de su deuda.
CP621Este aviso es para notificarle que usted tiene un plan de pagos a plazos vencido. Por favor, envíe el pago inmediatamente.
CP623Este aviso es para informarle nuestra intención de cancelar su plan de pagos a plazos y confiscar (embargar) sus bienes. Usted incumplió en su acuerdo.
CP711Nosotros realizamos cambios a su planilla debido a que entendemos que hubo un cálculo erróneo. Como resultado de estos cambios, usted adeuda dinero por sus contribuciones.
CP721Hicimos el(los) cambio(s) que usted solicitó a su declaración de impuestos para el año tributario que aparece en su aviso. Como resultado de éste(estos) cambio(s) usted debe dinero en sus impuestos.
CP722Hicimos el(los) cambio(s) que usted solicitó a su declaración de impuestos para el año tributario que aparece en su aviso. Como resultado de éste(estos) cambio(s) usted debe dinero en sus impuestos.
CP771Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses.
CP772Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses.
CP773Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses.
CP774Usted recibió este aviso para recordarle sobre la cantidad que adeuda en contribuciones, multas e intereses.
CP959Usted no radicó su planilla de contribución de negocios identificada en este aviso.
CP2000The income or payment information on file doesn’t match your tax return. The discrepancy may result in an increase or decrease in your tax due.
CP3219AThe IRS has received information that is different from what you reported on your tax return. This may result in an increase or decrease in your tax.
CP3219NThe IRS didn’t receive your tax return, so it calculated your return based on the information received from employers, financial institutions, and others. If you want to challenge the proposed tax, you have 90 days from the date of this notice. If you are outside the country, you have 150 days.
Letter 0012CThe IRS needs additional information to process your tax return.
Letter 0484CThe IRS wants a completed
Letter 0525Updates you on proposed changes after an IRS examination. Any changes are explained and details the refund due or taxes owed.
Letter 531IRS Notice of Deficiency. The information the IRS received about you was different from what you reported on your return.
Letter 0668D(LP 68)The IRS released their levy.
Letter 0549CYour tax bill was paid.
Letter 0681CThe IRS accepted your payment proposal. However, this is not a formal Installment Agreement.
Letter 0757CYou did not adhere to the terms of your Installment Agreement.
Letter LT 11The IRS plans to seize your property or rights to property.
Letter 1058The IRS has not received your payment. It plans to seize your property or rights to property.
Letter 1615 (LT 18)You must respond to the IRS within 10 days of this notice regarding past due tax returns.
Letter 1737 (LT 27)Complete and sign Form 433F, Collection Information Statement.
Letter 1961CYour application for a Direct Debit Installment Agreement was declined. It explains why and what you need to do to qualify.
Letter 1962CYour application for a
Letter 2050 (LT 16)The IRS is trying to collect unpaid taxes from you from returns that have been filed or from returns that have not been filed.
Letter 2257CThe IRS is providing the payoff amount that you requested.
Letter 226-JAn IRS letter to large employers notifying them that they may be liable for an Employer Shared Responsibility Payment (ESRP).
Letter 2271CA request for an Installment Agreement has been approved. It explains the fees and how to qualify for a Low Income Fee Reduction. The letter may also request missing information.
Letter 2272CAn IRS letter explaining why your request to pay the balance due in installments was declined.
Letter 2273CA confirmation letter of your request to pay the balance due in installments. It contained the amount to pay, fees charged, and where to send payment. Instructions on how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction included.
Letter 2318CA response to a request to pay taxes due to payroll deductions. It also explains the fees that are charged.
Letter 2357CThe IRS is admitting that it did not send you the balance due notices that it should have.
Letter 2603CThe IRS accepted your installment agreement. The IRS will file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien on your personal property.
Letter 2604CThe IRS has accepted your request for installment payments. This IRS letter provides the monthly payment, the address where to send it, and the fees charged. The letter also provides instructions on how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction.
Letter 2761CThe IRS is requesting your combat zone service dates to ensure that it provides you with the special provisions and protection of the combat zone deferment. Copies of military orders or other documentation to support your time served may be requested. Civilians working in support of the Armed Forces may be required to provide a Letter of Authorization or a letter from their employer.
Letter 2789CAn annual reminder notice, as required by law, of the balance due to the IRS. It explains that penalties and interest continue to accrue until the balance is fully paid.
Letter 2840CConfirms your Installment Agreement request and includes the payment amount and due date. This IRS letter explains the fees charged for paying monthly and explains how to apply for the Low Income Fee Reduction (if you qualify).
Letter 3030CProvides an explanation of the tax, penalty, and interest still due on your account.
Letter 3127CA confirmation of your request to make a change to your Installment Agreement. This IRS letter explains the fees for the change. Changes can be to the payment amount or due date, or it can include additional liabilities.
Letter 3174A reminder of taxes due after the IRS has sent a Notice of Intent to Levy.
Letter 3217CThe IRS has accepted your request to pay the balance in installments. This IRS letter provides your payment amount, the due date, and fees charged. The letter also provides instructions on applying for the Low Income Fee Reduction (if you qualify).
Letter 3228 (LT 39)A request to pay the balance due within 10 days using the envelope provided.
Letter 3500The IRS has received your documents, and it needs additional time to review them.
Letter 3572Your Federal Income Tax Return has been selected for examination. The IRS auditor requests that you call to schedule an audit appointment.
Letter 4883CThe IRS received your federal income tax return but needs more information to verify your identity in order to process your tax return accurately.
Letter 4903 (LT 26)You must file your tax returns immediately. The IRS has previously contacted you, but it did not receive a response.
Letter LP 47The IRS is trying to locate the person identified in the letter and is requesting that you provide their new address.
Letter LP 59The IRS has not received a response to the notice of levy it previously sent.
Audit Letter 2205The IRS manages audits either by mail or through an in-person interview to review your records. The interview may be at an IRS office (office audit) or the taxpayer’s home, place of business, or accountant’s office (field audit).
Letter 915You recently underwent an audit, and the IRS informs you that you now owe taxes.

Key takeaways

  • The IRS ST11 Notice is a warning that the IRS intends to levy your property due to unpaid taxes.
  • It is essential to respond quickly to the notice to avoid enforcement actions like wage garnishments or asset seizures.
  • Taxpayers can contact the IRS to arrange payment plans or dispute the notice if there has been an error.
  • Ignoring the ST11 Notice can lead to serious financial consequences, including additional penalties and interest.

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