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Don't Lose Your Passport Because of Unpaid Federal Debt

Article Highlights:

  • Notice CP508C 
  • Seriously Delinquent Tax Debt 
  • State Department Certification 
  • Passport Restrictions 
  • Lifting Restrictions 
  • Overseas When Restrictions Applied 
The IRS has begun issuing notice CP508C to taxpayers with “seriously delinquent” tax debt and the service has resumed its program of notifying the State Department of taxpayers’ unpaid federal debts.

The U.S. Department of State generally will not renew a passport or issue a new passport to taxpayers after receiving a certification of “seriously delinquent” tax debt from the IRS, and they may revoke or place limitations on current passports. Generally, you can use your passport until you’re notified by the U.S. Department of State that it’s taking action to revoke or limit your passport.

Once a taxpayer receives the notice CP508C, they have 30 days to dispute the notice. Taxpayers are cautioned to retain the notice until the issue is resolved. The IRS contact number is in the top right-hand corner of the CP508C notice. If the debt has already been satisfied, the taxpayer will need to have proof of payment available.

Seriously Delinquent Tax Debt - Seriously delinquent tax debt is an individual's unpaid, legally enforceable federal tax debt totaling more than $54,000 (including interest and penalties) for which:
  • Notice of federal tax lien has been filed and all administrative remedies under the Internal Revenue Code have lapsed or been exhausted, or 
  • A levy has been issued. 
The seriously delinquent tax debt amount that triggers the IRS to notify the State Department is inflation adjusted, so the $54,000 amount applies to 2021 and will no doubt increase for 2022.

Getting the Certification Reversed – Once IRS has certified the “seriously delinquent” tax debt to the U.S. Department of State the IRS will reverse the certification when:
  • The tax debt is fully satisfied or becomes legally unenforceable. 
  • The tax debt is no longer seriously delinquent. 
  • The certification is erroneous. A previously certified debt is no longer seriously delinquent when: 
  • The taxpayer and the IRS enter into an installment agreement allowing the debt to be paid over time. 
  • The IRS accepts an offer in compromise to satisfy the debt. 
  • The U.S. Department of Justice enters into a settlement agreement to satisfy the debt. 
  • Collection is suspended because the taxpayer requests innocent spouse relief
  • The taxpayer makes a timely request for a collection due process hearing in connection with a levy to collect the debt.
Additionally, a certified debt is no longer seriously delinquent for any taxpayer:
How long will it take to get a certification reversed? Once the tax problem with the IRS has been resolved in one of the instances included above, the IRS will, within 3 days, reverse the certification and provide notification to the U.S. Department of State.

If a taxpayer is already overseas when the State Department takes action to revoke or limit the taxpayer’s passport, the agency will either limit the passport only for return travel to the U.S. or issue a limited passport that only permits return travel.

If you have any questions related to a tax delinquency or need assistance with an installment agreement or one of the other options discussed, please give this office a call.


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Get to Know Prestige Accounting Services Group (previously Prestige Wealth Accounting Group)


Offices in Flemington, NJ and Califon, NJ

Our Mission: At Prestige Accounting Services Group (previously Prestige Wealth Accounting Group), we are on a mission to redefine the tax experience for individuals and small businesses. With a focus on personalized service, strategic planning, and expert guidance, we aim to empower our clients to succeed financially with confidence and ease.

Expertise in Action: With a wealth of experience and a team of dedicated professionals, we specialize in individual and small business tax preparation. While we excel in all areas of taxation, our passion lies in serving the unique needs of small business owners in New Jersey. We understand that small business taxation requires specialized knowledge and attention to detail, which is why we go above and beyond to ensure our clients receive the guidance and support they deserve.

Tailored Solutions for Every Client: Whether you're a high-net-worth individual seeking comprehensive tax planning or a small business owner in need of accounting and bookkeeping assistance, we have the expertise to meet your needs. Our team takes the time to understand your specific situation and develop customized solutions that align with your goals and objectives.

Why Choose Us?: What sets us apart from other New Jersey tax firms is our commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of taxation. We don't just prepare tax returns; we provide strategic insights, proactive planning, and actionable advice to help our clients achieve their financial goals. With a team of two CPAs, an EA, and an ERO, we have the expertise and resources to deliver exceptional service and results.

Your Success is Our Priority: At Prestige Accounting Services Group (previously Prestige Wealth Accounting Group), we measure our success by the success of our clients. We are dedicated to building long-lasting relationships, providing unparalleled service, and helping our clients thrive in today's ever-changing tax landscape.

We can't wait for you to experience the Prestige Accounting Services Group (previously Prestige Wealth Accounting Group) difference.

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