Even after death, IRS debt can follow - Clear Start Tax warns surviving spouses about tax liens, joint return risks, and surprise benefit garnishments.
IRVINE, CA / ACCESS Newswire / July 28, 2025 / For many grieving spouses, the last thing expected after a loved one's passing is a notice from the IRS. Yet according to Clear Start Tax, the surviving family member may still be held responsible for tax debt accrued during the marriage, especially if joint returns were filed or estate settlements are incomplete. From intercepted benefits to surprise levies, IRS collections don't always stop with death.
"Many spouses think tax issues end when a loved one passes away - but the IRS can still collect," said the Head of Client Solutions at Clear Start Tax. "We've seen survivors lose refunds or have Social Security reduced over debts they didn't know about."
The Overlooked IRS Risks That Can Haunt Surviving Spouses
When one spouse dies, any unresolved tax debt may carry over, especially if the couple filed jointly. In such cases, the surviving partner is often considered equally liable. In other scenarios, the IRS may attempt to collect directly from the estate or apply refunds and benefits toward outstanding balances.
Clear Start Tax outlines key risks survivors should be aware of:
Joint Return Liability - Taxes owed on jointly filed returns remain the responsibility of both spouses. Survivors can be held accountable, even years later.
Offset of Social Security Survivor Benefits - The IRS can seize all or part of a monthly payment through the Federal Treasury Offset Program.
Estate Collection Actions - The IRS may pursue assets, property sales, or probate settlements tied to the deceased's estate.
Refund Intercepts - If a survivor is due a tax refund, it may be withheld or offset to satisfy the spouse's old debt.
"These cases often involve people who had no idea the debt existed," said the Head of Client Solutions. "It only comes to light during estate closure, refund season, or when benefits suddenly shrink."
What Spouses Can Do to Protect Themselves
Clear Start Tax urges surviving spouses to assess their IRS exposure as early as possible - ideally before making estate decisions or filing their next tax return.
They recommend the following proactive steps:
Request IRS account transcripts to review any joint liabilities
Check estate tax obligations before distributing assets
Consult a tax professional if the deceased had a history of back taxes, unfiled returns, or installment plans
File IRS Form 8857 to explore Innocent Spouse Relief, if applicable
Monitor Social Security and refund activity for offsets or unexpected reductions
Relief Options for Surviving Spouses With IRS Debt
Survivors are not without options. Through the IRS Fresh Start Program and other relief channels, Clear Start Tax helps eligible spouses resolve inherited debt before it escalates.
Clear Start Tax assists surviving spouses by helping them:
Apply for hardship-based payment plans that won't disrupt retirement income
Request a lien release or withdrawal to avoid complications during estate sales
Submit an Offer in Compromise when the debt cannot be paid in full
Pursue Innocent Spouse Relief in cases of marital tax fraud or misreporting
Protect remaining Social Security income from aggressive garnishment
"Grief should never come with an IRS bill," said the Head of Client Solutions. "Surviving spouses deserve a path forward - and many don't realize there are legal ways to limit or remove this burden."
By answering a few simple questions, taxpayers can find out if they're eligible for the IRS Fresh Start Program and take the first step toward resolving their tax debt.
About Clear Start Tax
Clear Start Tax is a full-service tax liability resolution firm that serves taxpayers throughout the United States. The company specializes in assisting individuals and businesses with a wide range of IRS and state tax issues, including back taxes, wage garnishment relief, IRS appeals, and offers in compromise. Clear Start Tax helps taxpayers apply for the IRS Fresh Start Program, providing expert guidance in tax resolution. Fully accredited and A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau, the firm's unique approach and commitment to long-term client success distinguish it as a leader in the tax resolution industry.
Need Help With Back Taxes?
Click the link below:
https://clearstarttax.com/qualifytoday/
(888) 710-3533
Contact Information
Clear Start Tax
Corporate Communications Department
seo@clearstarttax.com
(949) 535-1627
SOURCE: Clear Start Tax
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:
https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/how-irs-collections-target-social-security-survivors-clear-start-1053117
