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IRS Passport Restrictions

Did you know that the IRS has the power to impact your ability to travel internationally? It’s true – the IRS can revoke or deny your passport if you have significant tax debt. Let’s break down these passport restrictions and what they mean for you:

  • Threshold for Action: The IRS can certify your tax debt to the State Department if you owe more than $55,000 in unpaid federal taxes, including penalties and interest.
  • Consequences: Once certified, the State Department can refuse to issue you a new passport, deny renewal of your existing passport, or even revoke your current passport.
  • Timeline: The process of reclaiming your passport can be lengthy, often taking 6 weeks to 3 months or more.
  • Travel Impact: Without a valid passport, you could miss crucial international trips, whether for business or personal reasons.

How to Protect Your Passport

If you’re concerned about potential passport restrictions, here are some steps you can take:

  • Stay Current on Taxes: File all required tax returns and pay your taxes on time to avoid accumulating significant debt.
  • Enter into a Payment Agreement: If you can’t pay in full, set up an installment agreement with the IRS to show good faith.
  • Consider an Offer in Compromise: This allows you to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount if you qualify.
  • Apply for Currently Not Collectible Status: If you’re experiencing financial hardship, this can temporarily halt collection activities.