Q: Can California Board of Equalization place a lien on my Michigan home for non-payment of back taxes?
I have lived in Michigan for 15 years. Prior to that I was a resident of Calif. . I bought cigarettes from out of state and the Calif tax department charged me with all back sales taxes I didn't pay. I have made small monthly payments for years. Now they want big payments that I can't afford. Does Calif have any recourse? Can they levy my Michigan home and property?
A:
If you owe back taxes to California but now live in Michigan, the California Board of Equalization typically cannot directly place a lien on your Michigan home. Their enforcement powers are generally limited to assets and income within California.
However, California may take steps to collect what you owe by garnishing wages or placing liens on any property you have in California. Extending a lien to property in another state like Michigan would require additional legal processes and cooperation between states, which can be complex and is not commonly pursued for individual cases.
It's important to keep communicating with the California tax authorities to discuss your payment options. You might be able to negotiate a more manageable payment plan or explore other solutions. Consulting with a tax professional or attorney can also help you understand your rights and develop a strategy to address your tax obligations effectively.
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