We may file a lien or take other action to collect a past-due tax debt. Filing a lien will have a negative impact on your credit rating.To get a judgment lien, the creditor must file certain documents in the county recorder's office. Get information about a federal tax lien, including how to get rid of a lien, how a lien affects you and how to avoid a lien. A money judgment in favor of the United States in a tax case should state one figure that is the entire amount to which the United States is entitled. Recording of the judgment is necessary even if the property is located in the same county where the judgment was entered. To secure a judgment lien against personal property, the creditor usually files a notice of judgment lien with the Secretary of State where the debtor lives. In order to get this lien, the judgment creditor must file certain documents in the county recorder's office. 21-75. Lien for taxes. ATG requires a twenty-year search because Illinois tax liens have a statute of limitations of twenty years.