---
title: When Does the IRS Garnish Wages? 2026 Guide | TaxTruce
url: https://taxtruce.com/answers/when-does-the-irs-garnish-wages
updated: 2026-10-29
---

# When does the IRS garnish wages?

Updated October 8, 20263 sourcesTaxTruce team[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

Usually only after it bills you, you don't pay, and it sends a notice of intent to levy with your right to a hearing at least 30 days before. The LT11 or Letter 1058 is that formal notice. You have 30 days to ask for a hearing.

The CP504 comes before it and warns that a levy is coming.

## Words to know

[CP504](/glossary)
:   An IRS notice of intent to levy. It is a reminder before the IRS starts to levy.

[Notice of intent to levy](/glossary)
:   An IRS notice that it plans to take your property. CP504 is one. LT11 and Letter 1058 give hearing rights.

## Sources

1. [IRS: What is a levy?](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/what-is-a-levy)
2. [IRS: Understanding your LT11 notice or Letter 1058](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-lt11-notice-or-letter-1058)
3. [IRS: Collection due process (CDP) FAQs](https://www.irs.gov/appeals/collection-due-process-cdp-faqs)

Run the numbers with our [free tax tools](/tools), like the penalty and payment plan math.