---
title: Can the IRS Garnish My Wages? 2026 Guide | TaxTruce
url: https://taxtruce.com/answers/can-the-irs-garnish-my-wages
updated: 2026-10-29
---

# Can the IRS garnish my wages?

Updated October 8, 20262 sourcesTaxTruce team[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

Yes. A wage levy sends part of each paycheck to the IRS until you pay, make other arrangements, or the levy is released. Part of your pay is exempt. The exempt part is based on your standard deduction and number of dependents.

The IRS usually sends a notice of intent to levy and your right to a hearing at least 30 days first.

## Words to know

[Notice of intent to levy](/glossary)
:   An IRS notice that it plans to take your property. CP504 is one. LT11 and Letter 1058 give hearing rights.

[Wage levy](/glossary)
:   An IRS levy on your pay. Part of each paycheck goes to the IRS until it is released. Often called a garnishment.

## Sources

1. [IRS: Information about wage levies](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/information-about-wage-levies)
2. [IRS: What is a levy?](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/what-is-a-levy)

Run the numbers with our [free tax tools](/tools), like the penalty and payment plan math.