IRS Withdraws Lien Against Belmont County
ST. CLAIRSVILLE – Belmont County Auditor Cindi L. Henry announced Monday that the Internal Revenue Service has withdrawn a federal tax lien filed against the Belmont County Auditor’s Office fully abating all penalties of the lien.
The lien, recorded May 8,2025, with the Belmont County Recorder’s Office, asserted penalties totaling $509,527.29. Of that amount, $502,984.97 related to information return reporting requirements under the Affordable Care Act for tax year 2021. The remaining $6,542.32 involved two federal payroll tax deposits the IRS alleged were made one day late in early 2024.
From the outset, Henry maintained that Belmont County acted in good faith and in compliance with applicable federal requirements. On February 13, 2025, several months before the lien was filed, the Auditor formally requested a hearing with the IRS to address the underlying issues.
The Auditor contacted the office of U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno for assistance. Moreno’s office engaged directly with the IRS facilitating communication on the federal level.
On September 5, 2025, an IRS Settlement Officer conducted a requested hearing by telephone. Following the hearing, the IRS issued a fully favorable determination, withdrawing the lien and abating all penalties.
Due to the federal government shutdown late last year, resolution of the matter was delayed beyond the originally anticipated timeframe. Written confirmation from the Internal Revenue Service dated February 9 2026, confirmed the assessed penalties with all related interest was fully abated with no balance remaining.
“This outcome affirms the professionalism and diligence of the staff in the Belmont County Auditor’s Office. Our office works diligently to navigate complex and evolving federal and state regulations while safeguarding taxpayer dollars. I am proud of our team and grateful for their commitment,” Henry said.
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