by Donald Wood
Last updated: 7:55 AM ET, Fri March 1, 2019
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced this week that taxpayers who owe too much in taxes and have not contacted the organization to develop a payment plan might not be able to receive or renew passports.
According to WSET.com, a previous set of laws requires the IRS to report "seriously delinquent tax debts" to the United States Department of State, typically those who owe over $52,000. As a result, the State Department would be able to restrict access to passports or hold pending applications.
Once the taxpayer either pays off the debt or makes the proper payment arrangements with the IRS, the government agency will have 30 days to approve the passport. Officials announced the process could be sped up for those who meet the criteria and have immediate travel plans or live abroad.
To help travelers keep their passports, the IRS has implemented a variety of resources, including monthly payment plans and a variety of online tools. In addition, other organizations are working with low-income, elderly and disabled taxpayers to ensure they stay in the good graces of the IRS.
Even the IRS is looking to work out a deal with delinquent payers, offering to evaluate the ability to pay and working out smaller payment plans. There are exceptions, though, as those in bankruptcy, victims of tax fraud or natural disasters victims are not at risk of getting reported.
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