Why Has Hacienda Blocked Your Spanish Bank Account? | How to Stop a Tax Seizure in Spain

Foreign residents and non-residents with assets in Spain often find themselves asking: “¿Por qué Hacienda ha embargado mi cuenta bancaria?” (Why has the Spanish Tax Authority blocked my bank account?). If you’ve just discovered an embargo (tax seizure) in your Spanish account or received a requerimiento (tax request) from the AEAT (Tax Authority), this article will help you understand the process and offer guidance on your options.

Embargos fiscales de Hacienda can have serious implications for anyone with a bank account or property in Spain—especially foreigners unsure of the local laws. Below, we address some key questions about stopping or preventing an embargo (embargo) and what the Ley General Tributaria says about seizing assets.

“Tax issues in Spain can be complex, but solutions exist.”

From negotiating payment plans (aplazamientos) to challenging an unjust embargo, there are steps you can take to protect your assets in Spain. And if the Spanish Tax Agency has already garnished your account, it’s crucial to act swiftly to avoid further complications.

Remember: the sooner you address an embargo from Hacienda, the easier it will be to negotiate, halt, or reverse the effects.

Talk to a Spanish Tax Lawyer Today →

Let’s explore the most common concerns foreigners have about tax seizures in Spain.

Why Has Hacienda Blocked Your Spanish Bank Account?

The Spanish Tax Authority (AEAT) can block or freeze bank accounts when there are unpaid taxes, pending fines, or unresolved administrative processes. If you have received a requerimiento (formal notice) and did not respond on time, Hacienda may proceed with an embargo as per the Ley General Tributaria. Foreigners often discover this when they notice unexpected withdrawals or limitations on their account.

What to do if you discover an embargo:

• Contact your bank to confirm the reason for the frozen funds.
• Review any notice from the AEAT or Hacienda regarding the debt.
• Seek professional advice—especially if you reside abroad—so you can respond properly and in time.

If you’re unsure about your status with Hacienda, it’s best to consult a Spanish tax professional to find out why your account was blocked and how to challenge the embargo.

How to Stop a Tax Seizure in Spain as a Foreigner

Stopping an embargo from Hacienda can be complex—particularly if you’re a non-resident and have limited knowledge of Spanish tax procedures (procedimiento de embargo). Still, there are options available:

• Negotiate a Payment Plan (aplazamiento): Request a payment extension or installment plan (fraccionamiento de pago) to demonstrate willingness to settle the debt.
• Appeal the Embargo: If you believe the embargo is unjustified or procedurally incorrect, you can present arguments to halt the process.
• Seek Legal Representation: A Spanish tax lawyer can communicate with the AEAT on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected under the Ley General Tributaria.

Remember to respond promptly to any official notice. Delaying action may reduce your chances of negotiating favorable terms or preventing further asset seizures.

“Prevention is better than a full embargo. Understand your obligations with Hacienda before issues arise.”

If you’ve missed the initial deadlines, don’t worry—there may still be ways to pause or reverse the embargo. Speak with an expert who understands how to handle these matters for foreigners.

Can Spanish Tax Authorities Seize Your Property?

One of the biggest concerns for non-residents is: “¿Puede Hacienda embargar propiedades de extranjeros en España?” Yes, under the Ley General Tributaria, the AEAT can seize real estate if taxes remain unpaid. The process differs slightly for residents and non-residents, but it’s possible to face embargos on real estate, vehicles, or other valuable assets.

Here’s what you should know if you face property embargo:

• The AEAT must officially notify you of the debt and intent to seize the property.
• You have the right to appeal or request payment plans to avoid losing your property.
• If no agreement is reached, Hacienda can auction or sell the asset to cover outstanding taxes.

Note: The Embargo process does not happen overnight. By seeking advice early, many foreigners successfully renegotiate or halt proceedings before real estate is lost.

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If you’re currently dealing with an embargo from Hacienda or worried about potential account or property seizures in Spain, fill out the form below to speak with a Spanish Tax Lawyer who can guide you through this process.

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VIDEO ABOUT How to Stop a Tax Seizure in Spain AND EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW.

Here we share a video with the necessary information to know what to do.