Government tax lien is one in which a lien is held against a property to ensure payment of taxes. What this does is guarantee that even if the house is sold, the delinquent taxes on the property will be paid. Government liens can be placed for a variety of reasons including property taxes owed. It varies from state to state but after a given time, if the taxes are not paid, the property may be sold by the government to collect the taxes owed. Income tax, estate tax and gift taxes are also in the federal government's scope. The lien can apply not only to the property in question but any property owned by the taxpayer while the lien is in place. Because advance notice of liens must be given by the government, it is wise to contact an attorney as soon as one is received. The federal government does not play around, as most people know. It is best to have a knowledgeable attorney who knows what each step is and how to deal with issues regarding the lien. Many times, with the help of an attorney, the lien can be removed. The more quickly one acts, the more trouble one can avoid.