39-51-1307. Collection of unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest by offset. - Montana Statutes

     39-51-1307. Collection of unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest by offset. (1) To collect delinquent taxes, penalties, and interest, the department may direct the offset of any funds due the debtor from the state, except wages subject to the provisions of 25-13-614 and retirement benefits. The department, through the department of revenue, shall provide the debtor with notice of the right to request a hearing on the offset action. A request for hearing must be made within 30 days of the date of the notice.
     (2) Subject to approval by the department, reasonable fees or costs of collection incurred by the department of revenue may be added to the amount of the debt, including added fees or costs. The debtor is liable for repayment of the amount of the debt plus fees or costs added pursuant to this subsection. All money collected must be returned to the department to be applied to the debt, except that all fees or costs collected must be retained by the department of revenue. If less than the full amount of the debt is collected, the department of revenue shall retain only a proportionate share of the collection fees or costs.
     (3) The department may file a claim for state funds on behalf of the employer if a claim is required before funds are available for offset.
     (4) The debt need not be determined to be uncollectible as provided for in 39-51-3207 before being transferred for offset.

     History: En. Sec. 13, Ch. 529, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 49, Ch. 7, L. 2001.