Arkansas Congressional candidate slapped with 12 tax liens

An Arkansas Congressional candidate was slapped with 12 tax liens by the state for unpaid taxes totaling $22,000.

The Department of Finance filed liens against Hot springs attorney Q. Byrum Hurst’s firm for unpaid taxes over a period of several years. A tax lien is a legal claim over property as security for unpaid debts. When faced with a lien or a garnishment, the debtor can retain an Arkansas tax attorney to help them resolve those issues.

The oldest and largest claim against Hurst and his law firm was filed in 2005 for an unpaid tax bill of $10,050 for failure to pay income taxes in 2002. He also has three other liens for unpaid taxes of $4,583 from April 2001 to December 2001 among others.

In addition to income tax debt, Hurst owes back property taxes, which he paid once he realized they were delinquent, according to his campaign manager Nicole Dorris.

“Like many Arkansans, Q. Byrum’s business has faced ups and downs over the years while fighting against corporate interests,” according to a statement issued by Hurst’s campaign. “All questions of any outstanding taxes or financial obligations are being thoroughly investigated and will be resolved as soon as the facts are clear.”

Tax debt when left unpaid will accumulate significant interest and penalties; this is why it’s critical that a delinquent taxpayer hires a tax lawyer to help them negotiate a settlement with state and federal agencies.

When a tax agency tries to collect unpaid balances they can garnish a person’s wages or bank account, put a lien against their property and even request an audit. Settling these issues can be too complex for the individual, but they can retain an Arkansas tax attorney to stop all collection activity and set up a payment plan.