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IRS Bank Levy and Florida Exemptions

The IRS levied your bank account. Florida law protects certain funds, but you have to assert those exemptions.

By Darrin T. Mish, tax attorney · 3 min read

When the IRS levies your bank account in Florida, the bank freezes your funds for 21 days before sending the money to the IRS. During that window, you can assert certain Florida exemptions.

Florida law protects head-of-household wages deposited into a bank account, Social Security benefits, retirement account distributions (in certain circumstances), and disability benefits. But these exemptions don't apply automatically in a federal tax levy. You have to assert them and provide documentation.

Act Within 21 Days

The 21-day hold period is your window. If you can demonstrate economic hardship, set up an installment agreement, or identify exempt funds in the account, the levy can be released before the money transfers to the IRS.

If the IRS has levied your bank account, call me immediately. This is a same-day emergency.

Call (813) 229-7100