Finding an IRS notice in your mailbox can be unsettling, especially when you are already concerned about unpaid taxes. When that letter is an LT11 Notice, the urgency feels even greater, because it signals that the IRS is preparing to move forward with enforced collection.

The important thing to remember is that an LT11 Notice is not the end of the road. You still have time to take action and prevent a levy from taking place if you respond promptly.

This article will walk you through what the LT11 Notice means, why the IRS sends it, the steps you should take right away, and how Tax Lifeline can help protect your income and guide you toward a resolution.

What Is an LT11 Notice?

An LT11 Notice is the IRS’s Final Notice of Intent to Levy and Notice of Your Right to a Hearing. This letter tells you that the IRS plans to collect your unpaid tax balance by seizing assets such as wages, bank funds, tax refunds, or other property. It is one of the final steps in the IRS collection process and is only sent after earlier notices have gone unanswered.

The LT11 Notice also explains your right to request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing, which allows you to dispute the amount owed or propose an alternative arrangement before the levy takes effect. To keep this right, you must respond within 30 days of the date on the letter.

Receiving an LT11 Notice does not mean a levy has already begun, but it does mean time is limited. Understanding why the IRS sent it can help you decide on the next steps and avoid more serious consequences.

Why You Received an LT11 Notice

The IRS sends an LT11 Notice when a tax balance has remained unpaid and previous attempts to contact you have not resolved the issue. In most cases, the notice is triggered after earlier letters, such as the CP14 or CP503, go unanswered or the balance is not paid in full.

You may also receive an LT11 Notice if the IRS believes you have unfiled tax returns or missing payments. Even if you disagree with the amount owed, the IRS will continue with the collection process until you respond.

It is important to understand that the notice is not meant to punish you. It is simply the IRS’s way of informing you that enforced collection may begin if no action is taken. The good news is that you still have options to prevent a levy if you act quickly.

What to Do When You Receive an LT11 Notice

Acting quickly after receiving an LT11 Notice is the most important step you can take. The IRS gives you 30 days from the date on the letter to respond before a levy can begin, so the sooner you take action, the more options you will have.

Start by reading the notice carefully and confirming the tax year or years involved, the balance due, and the deadline for your response. This information will help you understand what the IRS is expecting and give you a clearer picture of what needs to be resolved.

If you disagree with the balance or need more time to address the issue, you can request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing by submitting Form 12153. Filing this request before the deadline protects your right to appeal and prevents the IRS from moving forward with a levy while your case is under review.

For many taxpayers, reaching out to the IRS or working with a qualified tax professional can help clarify your options and ensure that a resolution is submitted correctly. Ignoring the notice or delaying your response gives the IRS permission to proceed with enforced collection, which is far more difficult to reverse once it begins.

Taking action now can prevent a levy and give you the time needed to find a workable solution.

Ways to Stop an IRS Levy After Receiving an LT11 Notice

Receiving an LT11 Notice does not mean the IRS has already started a levy. You still have time to prevent enforced collection, and the best approach depends on your financial situation, the accuracy of your tax balance, and whether any returns are still unfiled. Several solutions can stop a levy from taking place if handled quickly.

Installment Agreement

Setting up an approved monthly payment plan allows you to pay your balance over time. Once the agreement is established and payments are made consistently, the IRS will not move forward with seizing wages or bank funds.

Offer in Compromise

If paying the full amount is not financially realistic, you may qualify to settle your tax debt for less than what you owe. You may qualify for an Offer in Compromise based on your income, expenses, and assets, and this option can provide a meaningful path forward for taxpayers in hardship.

Currently Not Collectible Status

When paying anything right now would create serious financial strain, the IRS may temporarily pause all collection activity. This protects you from levies and gives you time to stabilize your finances.

Filing Missing Returns or Correcting IRS Errors

If you have unfiled tax returns or the IRS is working with incorrect information, addressing those issues promptly can stop levy action. The IRS cannot finalize a levy while your case is under active review.

Short-Term Extensions or Payment Arrangements

In some cases, a simple extension or short-term plan can prevent a levy if it brings you into compliance quickly.

Because each option has different requirements and timelines, determining the right one can be difficult. Professional help can make sure you choose the solution that best protects your income and prevents a levy from taking effect.

How Tax Lifeline Can Help and Next Steps

Sorting through your options after receiving an LT11 Notice can feel overwhelming, especially when the IRS is warning that a levy may begin soon. The good news is that you do not have to handle this process on your own. Tax Lifeline helps taxpayers respond quickly and effectively so they can prevent a levy and move toward a lasting resolution.

Our team reviews your notice, confirms the accuracy of the IRS balance, and identifies the best path forward based on your financial situation. Whether you need an installment agreement, an Offer in Compromise, Currently Not Collectible status, or help filing missing returns, we handle the communication with the IRS on your behalf. Acting quickly is essential, and having experienced support ensures that nothing is missed and your rights are protected.

The LT11 Notice is serious, but it is not too late to stop a levy before it starts. Taking action now can protect your income and help you regain control of your tax situation.

If you have received an LT11 Notice, reach out to Tax Lifeline today. We are here to guide you through each step and help you find a solution that protects both your finances and your peace of mind.