The IRS generally has 10 years from the date of assessment to collect back taxes, penalities and interest from taxpayers. After 1he 10 year period has passed the taxpayer will not owe anything to the IRS.

However, as with all IRS rules, there are certian exceptions to this rule. Examples include:

• If the taxpayer signed a waiver agreeing to extend the time to collect the tax.
• If the taxpayer files bankruptcy during the 10 year period.
• If the taxpayer files an offer in compromise during the 10 year period.
• If the taxpayer files a timely request for a collection due process hearing during the 10 year period
• If the IRS is attempting to collect a tax liability which has expired under the 10 year statute, then the taxpayer must inform the IRS in writing that they no longer have the right to collect this tax liability
• If the taxpayer is correct, the IRS will write off the tax liabilities since they have expired