The IRS generally cannot go after your Limited Liability Company (LLC) directly for your personal taxes. An LLC is a separate legal entity, and the liability protection it provides is one of its primary advantages.

Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

• Pass-Through Taxation: By default, a single-member LLC is treated as a “disregarded entity” for tax purposes, meaning that business income and expenses are reported on your personal tax return. If you owe personal income taxes, the IRS can certainly pursue you individually for those tax debts.
• Personal Liability for Employment Taxes: If you have employees in your LLC and fail to withhold and pay employment taxes (such as Social Security and Medicare taxes), the IRS can hold you personally responsible for these payroll tax obligations. In such cases, the IRS can potentially go after your personal assets.
• Piercing the Veil: While an LLC provides limited liability protection, it is not absolute. If the LLC is not maintained as a separate legal entity or is used for fraudulent or illegal activities, a court can “pierce the corporate veil” and hold you personally liable for the LLC’s debts or legal issues. This is relatively rare but can happen in certain circumstances.
• Personal Guarantees: If you have personally guaranteed business loans, leases, or contracts on behalf of your LLC, the IRS or creditors can seek payment from you personally if the LLC cannot meet its financial obligations.
• Trust Fund Recovery Penalty: If the IRS determines that you were responsible for withholding and paying payroll taxes for your LLC’s employees and failed to do so, they can impose the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty on you personally. This penalty holds individuals personally liable for unpaid payroll taxes.

To protect your limited liability, it’s crucial to maintain a clear separation between your personal and business finances, keep accurate records, and ensure that your LLC is operated as a distinct legal entity. Comply with all tax laws and regulations to avoid potential issues with the IRS. If you’re facing personal tax issues or need guidance on tax compliance, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified tax professional or attorney who can provide specific advice based on your circumstances and the tax laws applicable to your jurisdiction.