Wait, the IRS Can Revoke My Passport?

On: November 22, 2023

The IRS has many forms of collection actions they can take against you when you owe them money. The IRS takes tax liabilities seriously and will pursue you until they have been paid in full. This can mean that they go to extreme measures such as revoking your passport, seizing your assets, or any other collection means they deem necessary.

Many taxpayers fear the IRS and rightfully so. They have a lot of power. Having good tax representation by your side can help ease some of the fear you have about facing them.

But Really, Can They Revoke My Passport?

Yes, they can. The IRS has the ability to restrict and remove your international travel privileges. Now, the IRS is not likely to do this if you simply owe them a small amount of money, but they will take this step if you have a seriously delinquent debt with them.

Another action they can take is if you do not have a passport, but apply to get one and have seriously delinquent debt, is prevent you from being approved for one.

When Will They Revoke My Passport?

As we mentioned, this is not a tactic that the IRS uses for everyone. In fact, there are some factors that will prompt a passport revocation from the IRS. Some of the qualifications for revocation include:

• Having an active levy issued
• Owing $52,000 or more in taxes
• Having a federal lien filed

Will I Have Prior Notice That My Passport Will Be Revoked?

Yes. Your passport being revoked should be of no surprise to you. Prior to it being revoked, the IRS will have sent you multiple notices in an attempt to get your attention.

You will receive Letter 6152 in the mail and this letter requests that you call the IRS within 30 days to prevent the action from being taken. Failing to contact them will lead to the action being taken.

Are There Situations Where My Passport Won’t Be Revoked? I’m Poor Not Avoiding Them! 

Okay, just because you may qualify to have your passport revoked does not mean that it will actually be revoked. While it is a measure of collection they can use, they do not always use it.

In fact, even if you qualify for the revocation, you will not have it revoked in these circumstances:

• You have requested innocent spouse relief
• You are going through a due process hearing
• You have been making on-time payments through an agreement (OIC, installment, or settlement)
• You are going through bankruptcy
• You are the victim of a natural disaster or identity theft
• You are experiencing financial hardship

Can I Get My Passport Back After Revocation?

It is possible. The IRS won’t simply reverse their decision because you want them to. You will need to communicate with them and set up some type of arrangement with them or pay the entire debt in full.

Leading Tax Group Can Help Prevent a Passport Revocation 

If you have a seriously delinquent debt with the IRS or you have been informed that your passport will be revoked, it is time to contact Leading Tax Group.

The IRS will come after you for their money and if they have threatened to revoke your passport, they will. Now is the time to get the situation handled and preserve your traveling privileges.

Our IRS tax experts will work closely with you to assist you in applying for a settlement or payment plan that will satisfy the IRS and prevent your passport from being revoked. If your passport has already been revoked, call our office now.