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How long can the IRS collect on your unpaid taxes?

Video Transcript

Are you wondering how long the IRS has to collect your unpaid taxes? There's a 10-year rule, but it's not always straightforward. Here's what you need to know. The IRS generally has 10 years to collect the tax debt, penalties, and interest from the date the tax was assessed. This is known as the Collection Statute Expiration Date (CSED)or CSED for short. Factors that extend the time limit. Crucially, certain actions can pause or extend this 10-year period.

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This content was written and reviewed by the licensed tax attorneys at Victory Tax Lawyers, LLP. Our attorneys specialize in IRS tax relief and are licensed members of the California State Bar with a nationwide practice.

Last Reviewed: 2026  ·  Meet Our Attorneys →

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