IRS Threatens Land Seizure Over Accidental $20,000 Refund
A Tennessee farmer is facing potential land seizure by the IRS over a $20,000 tax refund that was sent in error and which he attempted to return. Wilson Perry Kirby, 76, received the incorrect payment on May 10, 2022, and immediately tried to give it back with help from his accountant. Despite years of communication attempts, the IRS has charged him interest on the returned amount and withheld this year's tax refund. The situation escalated in early July when Kirby was notified he owed over $2,500 or risk property seizure. He claims not a single dollar of the erroneous payment was spent and says his efforts to resolve it have been ignored by local officials despite reaching out for help at all levels of government. The IRS declined to comment on individual cases but agreed through an intermediary to contact Kirby directly. The IRS advises taxpayers who receive incorrect refunds to return them promptly, as delays can result in interest charges or legal action. In Kirby's case, he has been advised by a local news station to consult with a tax attorney for potential next steps.
Topics: IRS property seizure refund error