Browse garnishments, support orders and wage levies.
IRS Levy identifies collection of a federal tax debt from wages. An IRS wage levy generally continues until released or satisfied, subject to the applicable exemptions. Payroll cannot simply stop it because an employee requests that.
How to read this entry
Use the meaning IRS levy on wages alongside the column heading. An earnings amount, an employee deduction and an employer-cost memo can have different effects even when their labels look similar.
Example on a pay statement
A pay statement can show federal income-tax withholding for this year and an IRS levy relating to another period. The two entries should not be merged when checking your current withholding.
Examples illustrate the checking method. They are not a personal tax calculation or a promise of a particular benefit.
What to check with payroll
Use the IRS notice and payroll’s calculation to check the exempt amount, and contact the IRS about release or resolution.
Compare related entries
Read the garnishments, support orders and wage levies guide to compare the entries in this part of your statement. Use the full pay stub code directory when a second abbreviation is unfamiliar.
Reference and scope
Official guidance on garnishments, support orders and wage levies provides background on the underlying rules. The actual plan, tax year, jurisdiction and payroll record determine how the rules apply.