If it has not been paid, the borrower either has to pay it prior to close of escrow, or he has to set up a payment plan with the IRS or the state tax authority.
Last minute payment plans often cause delays, however. FHA in particular will not allow loans to close with a tax payment plan in place unless there is a three-month history of payments.
If a formal Tax Lien has been filed, that lien will have to be paid in full and cleared no matter what, prior to close, even if a payment plan is in place.
Jay Voorhees
Founder/Broker | JVM Lending
(855) 855-4491 | DRE# 01524255, NMLS# 310167