News release: Department urges caution on letters

Michelle Lujan Grisham

Governor

Stephanie Schardin Clarke

Cabinet Secretary

Media Contact: Charlie Moore

Charlie.Moore@tax.nm.gov

(505) 670-5406

October 16, 2024

Taxation and Revenue urges taxpayer caution

Deceptive Letters threaten seizure of property for tax debts

SANTA FE— The New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department is warning taxpayers about letters claiming their property will be seized for nonpayment of taxes.

The letters in question may appear to be generated by a government source with wording such as “Tax Processing Unit” but are actually from a private company and include an 800-telephone number.

The letters are not from the state Taxation and Revenue Department.

Taxation and Revenue does mail taxpayers notices when it intends to place liens on property or garnish wages and other income for unpaid taxes. Taxpayers who have any question about the legitimacy of a letter from the Department can call 1-866-285-2996. All letters sent by the Department will include a Letter ID number, which taxpayers should reference when they call.

Anyone with an outstanding property tax debt should work directly with the treasurer’s office in the county where their property is located or with Taxation and Revenue at 505-827-0883 if the debt is three or more years past due and has been turned over to the state for collection.

The Taxation and Revenue Department does auction properties for delinquent taxes when it has been unable to collect debts owed on those properties. The department schedules at least one auction in each county annually.

Anyone who suspects they have encountered fraudulent activity can contact the Department through the Fraud Hotline at 1-866-457-6789 or by email at Tax.Fraud@tax.nm.gov .

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The Taxation and Revenue Department serves the State of New Mexico by providing fair and efficient tax and motor vehicle services. It administers more than 35 tax programs and distributes revenue to the State and to local and tribal governments throughout New Mexico.

The Department strives to reduce taxpayer burden through clearer communication, statutes, regulations, forms, correspondence and instructions.

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