An IA request is often pending until it can be reviewed, and an IA is established, or the request is withdrawn or rejected. If the requested IA is rejected, the running of the collection period is suspended for 30 days.
If the IRS approves an installment agreement, it will generally keep any tax refunds and apply them to your debt. If the IRS agrees to an installment agreement, it may still file a Notice of Federal Tax Lien. For more information, see Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process.
How Do I Stop the IRS From Taking My Refund? Your best chance is to ensure that you make payments on the six types of debt for which the BFS will hold a refund. Notify the IRS, then contact the BFS and talk to a debt analyst if you can't do this.
Or: For individual tax returns, call 1-800-829-1040, 7 AM - 7 PM Monday through Friday local time. The wait time to speak with a representative may be long. This option works best for less complex questions.
If you don't qualify for an IA through OPA, you may also request an IA by submitting Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request, with the IRS. When you request an IA using the form, generally, you'll receive a response from the IRS within 30 days notifying you of whether the IA request was approved or rejected.