How long does a California State tax lien stay on your credit before it "falls off"?

Question

How long does a California State tax lien stay on your credit before it "falls off"?

Answer 1

A California tax lien expires if it is not refiled within 10 years of the initial filing.  After that it is good for a total of 20 years from the time the first bill was mailed.  The Franchise Tax Board WILL NOT issue a lien release on an expired lien because, as it states, due to the passage of time, no lien exists.  Credit reporting agencies haven't picked up on this so will show old liens as being good.

Answer 2

Seven (7) years, if you pay it.

Forever if unpaid.  Unpaid tax liens do not "fall off" ever.

Answer 3

After you pay the bill.