Legal Question in Tax Law in Massachusetts
State Tax Levy
I have a bank account on my and my ex-husband's name. I divorced him about 8 years ago. I have no idea where he may be, but I never bothered to remove his name from the account. The bank has been served with a State Tax Levy of almost $4000 naming him as the debtor. Although I haven't seen the charge on my account yet, the letter says that they have charged my account, so I may see the charge soon, I guess. Does the fact that his name is on the account (eventhough he has nothing to do with it for over 8 years) gives the States rights to take money that's mine to pay his debts to the State? Thanks
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: State Tax Levy
If he has the right under the terms of the account allows him to sign checks, then they can take the money from the account. You should contact the state immediately and try to recover the money or file a complaint with Mass Tax Court for return of the funds.
If the money represents child support, they cannot take money from the account and you need to inform them of that fact immeidately.