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Owe the IRS $25,000?

The rules at this line, from the IRS.

Updated October 8, 2026Fact checked
You owe$25,000

$25,000 or less on a direct debit plan: you may ask to withdraw the lien notice.

The short answer

If you owe about $25,000, you can still apply for a plan online. The $25,000 line matters for liens. If you owe $25,000 or less and pay by automatic bank debit, you may ask the IRS to withdraw a lien notice after three payments in a row.

Key facts

  • $25,000 or less on a direct debit plan: you may ask to withdraw the lien notice.
  • The plan must pay in full within 60 months or before the collection date ends.
  • You need 3 direct debit payments in a row first.
  • Above $25,000, you can pay down to $25,000 and then ask.

Estimate your plan

Payment plan estimator

Other amounts

Results depend on your situation. Not every case qualifies.

Common questions

What happens if I owe the IRS $25,000?

If you owe about $25,000, you can still apply for a plan online. The $25,000 line matters for liens. If you owe $25,000 or less and pay by automatic bank debit, you may ask the IRS to withdraw a lien notice after three payments in a row.

Can I set up a payment plan for $25,000?

Yes, most people can apply online if they have filed all required returns. Fees run from $0 for a short plan to $178 by phone or mail.

See your options

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