How to Remove a Federal Tax Lien from Your Property in Texas?

By David B. Coffin

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Tax

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Last Modified on Jun 10, 2026

If you owe substantial debts to the IRS, there are multiple ways the agency may attempt to force you to pay or recoup what they feel you owe. One of the most common ways they do this is by putting a federal tax lien on your property. A tax lien is the government’s legal claim against your property that occurs when you don’t pay a tax debt. If you’re wondering how to remove a federal tax lien from your property in Texas, you should contact a tax lien lawyer immediately.

​Trust David Coffin PLLC to Protect Your Property

​Getting a federal lien removed from your property in Texas can be complicated. However, it is not impossible. You should hire a tax lien attorney to help you determine the right course of action to protect your property and combat the aggressive tax agencies you’re dealing with. Our lead attorney, David Coffin, has worked as a trial lawyer and for the Department of Justice Tax Division, giving him the knowledge he needs to protect clients and their property here in Texas.

​How to Remove a Federal Tax Lien From Your Property in Texas

​There are several different ways you can try to remove a federal tax lien from your property in Texas. To start, you should connect with a tax lien lawyer who can help you understand what is available for your case. They can help you make sure your rights as a taxpayer are not infringed upon and that your case doesn’t cross over into criminal territory. This is especially important, as there were 31 tax-related criminal sentences in Texas in 2024.

​The following are different methods you and your lawyer can use to try to remove a federal tax lien from your property in Texas:​

• Pay Your Tax Debt in Full; The most reliable and direct way to get a federal tax lien removed from your property is to simply pay the outstanding debt that you owe to the IRS. Once your balance is fully paid, the IRS is required by law to then issue you a Certificate of Release of Federal Tax Lien within 30 days.

  While the IRS files the release, you should take your own steps to make sure your specific county clerk records that release. You don’t want the lien to take more time to be removed because somebody didn’t process the paperwork correctly. In Texas, the lien release won’t be updated automatically on your property title unless you record the certificate locally. Your lawyer can help you make sure everything is properly filed.

• ​Lien Withdrawal: If you are unable to pay the balance in full, you still have other options. One of those options is a lien withdrawal. This option removes the public Notice of Federal Tax Lien entirely, basically acting like it was never filed in the first place. This is not always a valid option. The IRS may grant this reprieve if you enter into a Direct Debit Installment Agreement and have made three consecutive payments on time.
• Certificate of Discharge: Another potential option to have the lien removed is to apply for a certificate of discharge. This can be a viable option if you are trying to refinance the property in question or sell it. The discharge removes the lien from the house. A lawyer can help you fill out the right paperwork and avoid any unnecessary complications.
• Lien Subordination: Filing for a lien subordination does not remove the lien, but it does allow the IRS audit to step back from enforcing the lien and no longer see your situation as a priority. This can give you more time to figure out a long-term solution, such as securing a loan or refinancing the property. Your lawyer can help you determine a viable solution for your federal tax lien.

FAQs

Can I Sell My House If the IRS Has a Lien on It in Texas?

Yes, you can still sell your house if the IRS has a lien on it in Texas. While the lien doesn’t stop the sale from proceeding, it does make sure that the federal government gets paid from the proceeds. The process for selling a home in Texas depends largely on the amount of equity you have. If your home equity covers the entire amount that you owe the IRS, that can be the easiest path for repayment.

How Long Does It Take for a Federal Tax Lien to Be Released in Texas?

If you have paid off the entire debt, the IRS has 30 days to release the tax lien against your property. However, obtaining the official release document can sometimes take up to 30 days or more when you consider processing times and filing. Make sure that you fill out the proper paperwork with the help of a tax lawyer. If you are unable to pay the full amount, you may want to consider an alternative.

How Can I Get a Federal Tax Lien Removed Without Paying in Texas?

There are multiple ways that you may be able to get a federal tax lien removed without paying in Texas. You can request a lien withdrawal, which removes the lien from public records but still leaves you liable for the debt. If you owe a relatively small amount, you can enter a Direct Debit Installment Agreement and make three consecutive payments. You should consult with a lawyer to learn more about your options.

How Long Does a Federal Tax Lien Last in Texas?

Generally, a federal tax lien lasts 10 years from the date that the tax is assessed by the IRS. If the debt is not paid within that time, the lien simply expires. However, the IRS can extend this period if they wish by filing a Notice of Federal Tax Lien before the original statute of limitations expires. Certain actions can pause the time limit, such as filing for bankruptcy, agreeing to a payment plan for tax, or submitting an Offer in Compromise.

Hire a Tax Lien Lawyer Today to Protect Your Property

​At David Coffin PLLC, our team shares years of experience navigating complex tax and criminal laws throughout Texas. We can assess your case and determine which options may allow you to combat your federal tax lien. Contact us today to find out more about our legal tax services here in Texas.