Form 12256

What Is Form 12256

IRS Form 12256 is a document taxpayers utilize to request the withdrawal of a filed Notice of Federal Tax Lien. The form acts as a formal petition to the Internal Revenue Service, indicating the taxpayer's desire for the Lien Notice to be removed from public record, thus easing the potential credit implications and stigma associated with such a filing.

When to Use IRS Form 12256

There are specific circumstances under which the IRS Form 12256 should be employed:

• When the taxpayer has fully paid off the tax liability for which the lien was imposed.
• If the withdrawal of the lien can potentially aid in the collection of the tax or is in the best interest of the taxpayer and the government.
• In cases where the lien was filed prematurely or not in accordance with IRS procedures.
• Fresh Start Initiative: Taxpayers entering the Direct Debit Installment Agreement under the Fresh Start program may also submit this form if they meet the qualification criteria.

How To Fill Out IRS Form 12256 Instruction

Step 1: Provide Taxpayer Information

Enter the full name(s) of the taxpayer(s) as it appears on tax documents.

Fill in the current address, including city, state, and zip code.

Step 2: Enter Tax Details

Indicate the type of tax or tax form number.

List the tax period(s) for which the form is being submitted.

Provide the Social Security Number (SSN), Employer Identification Number (EIN), or other taxpayer identification number(s).

Note: If you have a copy of your Collection Due Process notice, you may attach it to the form instead of entering the tax type/form number, tax period, and identification number.

Step 3: Withdrawal of Hearing Request

Mark the applicable check box(es) to indicate your reason for withdrawing the hearing request.

Step 4: Sign and Date the Form

If you are the taxpayer, sign and date the form in the allocated space.

If this applies to joint taxpayers, each spouse should sign and date the form.

If an authorized representative is completing the form, they must sign and date it.

Tip: Review the entire form to ensure all information is accurate and complete before signing.

When to File 12256 Form IRS

The appropriate timeframe to file the 12256 Form IRS is tied to the occurrence of qualifying events such as:

• Immediately after ultimately settling the tax debt.
• Following signing an agreement, directly debiting the installment payments if participating in the Fresh Start program.
• As soon as it's discovered that the lien was filed incorrectly or disregarding due process.
• When a withdrawal will help facilitate tax collection or if it is deemed beneficial for the taxpayer and the government.